Aska: Odisha is poised to enter a “golden era” for its youth, offering boundless possibilities and vast opportunities across all sectors, stated Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi today at the state-level Youth Power Conclave organized in Aska, Ganjam district. The Chief Minister declared that the Youth of Odisha would be pivotal in transforming the state into a $500 billion economy by 2036 and an ambitious $1.5 trillion economy by 2047.
Addressing a large gathering in Ganjam, the Chief Minister lauded the district’s rich cultural heritage, acknowledging its people’s prowess in art, music, dance, and political acumen, which led to the formation of a “triple engine government” in the region. He emphasized that despite the significant anniversary of June 12, his government has remained focused on public service since June 13, showing no complacency in their recent success.
In a significant move for regional development, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for various projects worth Rs 550 crore in the district. These initiatives include five irrigation projects, a crucial road widening project, a high-level project, and other essential infrastructure developments. He also directed the preparation of a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the comprehensive development of the Maa Tara Tarini Temple and announced plans for a world-class industrial training institute in Polsara.
Highlighting the critical role of the youth, Chief Minister Shri Majhi stated, “The youth are the strength, potential, and future of our society – a reservoir of unlimited energy.” He pointed out that Odisha’s productive age group (15-35 years) comprises 1.7 crore individuals, and a clear roadmap has been designed to harness this immense energy.
The government has implemented several key initiatives, including the National Education Policy(NEP) for quality education, the Godavarish Mishra Adarsh Primary School Scheme, and the Skilled Odisha programme to bolster foundational education. Furthermore, an 11.25 percent reservation has been introduced in higher education for students from socially and educationally backward classes.
To enhance employability, 58 colleges are now providing training in industrial relations and practical education. “We are giving utmost importance to skill development of the youth. All these programs of ours will make the youth of Odisha the most employable in the coming days. Their demand will increase all over the world,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister also encouraged the youth to consider sports as a viable career path, emphasizing the state government’s robust support and arrangements for sports development, which can bring both fame and financial rewards.
On the industrial front, Shri Majhi proudly announced that the “Excellence Odisha” program has generated 13 lakh employment opportunities with an investment of 17 lakh crore rupees. He highlighted the government’s swift action, noting that projects worth Rs 1 lakh 80 thousand crore have commenced in just 150 days, guaranteeing 1.10 lakh jobs. Additionally, 28,346 government jobs have been provided in the last year, underscoring the commitment to creating opportunities for the youth.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister exhorted the youth to recognize and develop their innate talents, urging them to think globally and embrace the mantra: “I MUST BE THE BEST.” He expressed confidence that the success of over 1.5 crore young people would elevate Odisha to the status of the country’s best state and a significant growth engine for India.