Govt is committed to enhancing the growth of Eastern India, PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asserted that Government is committed to enhance the growth of the Eastern parts of the country that has been neglected for far too long.Speaking at the book launch ceremony of Hindi Version of the  ‘Odisha Itihaas' written by Dr Harekrushna Mahtab in New Delhi on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated that the Centre has a focussed approach for growth in all areas which need immediate attention. Highlighting the special projects for the North Eastern states and Eastern Region, Modi said the government has initiated several key projects for development of Infrastructure and Industries in the region. He said the Centre is committed towards the Blue Revolution for the betterment of fishermen in the country living along the coastal lines. Modi said, Odisha has flourished with a wide network of national highways, coastal ways, oil and gas pipelines.

The Prime Minister stressed the need for much wider study of History. He said history should not only be a lesson of the past but should also mirror the future. Mr Modi said, the country is keeping this in focus while celebrating Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav and enlivening the history of the freedom struggle. He lamented the fact that many important events and stories of the freedom struggle could not come before the country in proper form. The Prime Minister said in the Indian tradition, history is not limited to kings and palaces. He said, History evolved with people over thousands of years. Mr Modi said, it is foreign thought process that has turned the stories of dynasties and palaces into history. Giving example of Ramayana and Mahabharata, the Prime Minister, most of the description in it is of the common people and in our lives, common person is the focus point.   
The Prime Minister emphasized that with struggles like Paika Rebellion, Ganjam Revolt to Sambalpur Struggle, land of Odisha always gave new energy to the fire of revolt against the British rule. He said, Surendra Sai of Sambalpur Andolan is a source of inspiration for all of us. The Prime Minister remembered the immense contribution of leaders like Pandit Gopabandhu, Acharya Harihar and Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab. He paid tribute to the contribution of Ramadevi, Malti Devi, Kokila Devi and Rani Bhagyawati. The Prime Minister also noted the contribution of the tribal community who always troubled the British with their patriotism and valour. He also remembered the great tribal leader of the Quit India Movement Laxman Nayak. The Prime Minister said that history of Odisha represents the historical strength of entire India. This strength, reflected in the history is connected with the present and future possibilities and work as a guide for us.