Finance
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Ekta Padayatra at Nilgiri, Balasore district, to commemorate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s Iron Man, 150th birth anniversary.
Hundreds of students, youth, and government officials participated in the padyatra, which spanned around 9 kilometers from Nilgiri to Mitrapur while carrying a 100-foot multicolored flag. The event is part of the Ekta Year celebrations, which promote unity and integrity throughout the state and country.
Prior to the padyatra, Chief Minister Majhi said prayers at the Jagannath Temple in Nilgiri and opened a photo exhibition at the Police Parade Ground that highlighted the importance of Balasore district in the liberation fight and Sardar Patel’s life.
Addressing a public forum, the Chief Minister stated that the Ekta Padayatra is more than just a procession; it is a symbol of Indian unity and a reminder of every citizen’s responsibility to keep the country together.
On this occasion, Chief Minister said, “The land we stand on today, Nilgiri, is not just a geographical location, but a symbol of people’s power and democracy. The Nilgiri Praja Movement is a chapter in freedom struggle, a testament to the unity of the people against exploitation, injustice, and for their rights.”
He also stated that the movement brought together local youth, farmers, laborers, and educated people in a single front against British control, demonstrating the potential of unity and collective action.
The Chief Minister stated that the Nilgiri Praja Movement resulted in not only a victory for the people, but also a triumph of their self-esteem, dignity, and democratic spirit. He noted that the movement demonstrated that when people band together, no tyrannical force can stop them.
He claimed that the padyatra serves as a reminder of the concept of “unity in diversity” and that everyone, regardless of caste, religion, or language, is Indian. He underlined that the country’s strength and identity stem from its unity.
The Chief Minister stated that the government is committed to the welfare of the youth, providing opportunities for education, sports, and creativity. He emphasized that the youth are a vital part of the country’s development, as emphasized by Prime Minister Modi.
He urged everyone to come together to build a strong and prosperous Odisha and India, saying, “Let us all unite and work towards building a strong and prosperous Odisha and India.”
Higher Education Minister Suryabansi Suraj stated that the current era is one of education and knowledge, and that young people must step forward to help create the nation. He went on to say that the Ekta Padayatra is a call to action for young people to become involved.
Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi, governing party deputy chief whip Gobinda Chandra Das, Simulia MLA Padma Lochan Panda, Balasore MLA Manas Kumar Dutta, and Shovana Mohanty, Chairperson of the State Women’s Commission, all attended the ceremony.
Nilgiri MLA Santosh Kumar Khatua welcomed the crowd, while District Collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas thanked everyone.
