President calls for collective efforts to build a prosperous Odisha

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday addressed the members of the Odisha Legislative Assembly in Bhubneshwar, urging them to work collectively for a prosperous Odisha and reiterating the pivotal role of legislators in fulfilling citizens’ aspirations. Speaking at the Assembly, the President recalled her own experiences in the house, noting, “After many years, old memories of this place have resurfaced. As a legislator, I had asked questions, and as a minister, I had answered them here.” She highlighted Odisha’s significant contributions to India’s freedom struggle and nation-building, noting that the state’s tribal communities had set an example by resisting foreign rule.

Murmu also underscored the state’s longstanding tradition of women’s empowerment. “It is a matter of pride that Odisha has consistently had women’s representation in the Legislative Assembly. Women from Odisha have made the country proud by excelling in diverse fields,” she said. President Murmu credited the Legislative Assembly for shaping her journey to the highest constitutional office of the country. This is the first time a President of India addressed the Odisha Assembly.

The President praised the 17th Legislative Assembly for its productive sessions and healthy tradition of dialogue, noting the passage of numerous public welfare laws. Observing Odisha’s rapid progress, the President appreciated the state government’s initiatives in agriculture, education, health, tribal and disadvantaged group development, housing, disaster management, and industrialization, emphasizing the coordinated efforts of both the state and central governments.

“Nature has blessed Odisha with abundant mineral deposits, forests, water resources, and human talent. By leveraging these advantages, Odisha can become a leading state in the country,” she said. Murmu urged them to work with dedication to bring smiles on the faces of common people and build a prosperous Odisha by 2036 when the state completes 100 years of its formation. The President said Odisha is blessed with abundant resources and has the potential to become a leading state.