Finance
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi dedicated multiple development projects worth more than Rs 1,330 crore to the people during his visit to Keonjhar district.
During a development conference in the area, he laid foundation stones, inaugurated finished projects, and announced new initiatives aimed at improving Keonjhar’s infrastructure and public transportation system. This initiative encompassed a total of 187 projects.
The CM also lay the groundwork for 62 projects valued at approximately Rs 705 crore. He also inaugurated 24 finished projects, which cost around Rs 251 crore. Furthermore, he unveiled a new package of almost Rs 375 crore for 101 new projects that are projected to accelerate the district’s overall growth.
However, the most notable aspect of the CM’s visit was the establishment of the district’s electric bus (e-bus) service. CM Majhi signed off 25 contemporary e-buses and opened the newly constructed ‘Ama Bus’ Depot, which cost Rs 17 crore. The new service promises economical and comfortable travel, with bus fares beginning at Rs 5. All buses are fully air-conditioned and outfitted with innovative safety systems such as CCTV cameras, panic buttons, and GPS monitoring to ensure safe rides, especially for female passengers.
The e-bus concept also provides a significant push for women’s empowerment. Out of the almost 150 people hired in the project, 30 are female bus guides and two are female drivers. Chief Minister Majhi described this as a significant step that strengthens the state government’s ‘Mahila Shakti’ campaign.
Addressing the audience, the Chief Minister stated that Keonjhar has made significant contributions to the state due to its abundant natural resources, but the district has historically been overlooked. He emphasized that development efforts had accelerated since his government took power. He also stated that the district’s big steel factory project is nearing completion. Once operational, the factory will contribute to the district’s transformation into one of the most prosperous industrial districts in the country.
CM Majhi went on to say that the coming decade will be Odisha’s “Decade of Resolve,” and Kendujhar will play an important part in making the state affluent and developed by 2036. He also emphasized the environmental benefits of the e-bus service, adding that it is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by 330 to 390 tonnes per year. The government has earmarked ₹238 crore for fleet maintenance and future expansion to other cities in the state.The Chief Minister presented ₹5,75,000 to six recipients under various welfare schemes. These included marriage and death assistance, as well as support for self-help groups and individuals under the ‘Udyami’ initiative.Several luminaries attended the occasion, including Dr. Fakir Mohan Naik, Chairman of the Keonjhar District Planning Committee, MP Ananta Naik, Patna MLA Akhila Chandra Naik, Special Development Council Chairperson Mamita Naik, and District Collector Vishal Singh.This comprehensive development plan is projected to greatly boost public transportation, infrastructure, job prospects, and industrial growth in the Kendujhar district.
The CM went on to say that this program is expected to boost the district’s infrastructure and bring about sweeping changes in the general public’s lifestyle. Women’s empowerment is a fundamental feature of this endeavor. Women will be appointed as bus drivers and guides to demonstrate their abilities. With ticket costs starting at Rs 5 and digital payment options, it will be extremely advantageous to students and workers. The Chief Minister indicated that this e-bus service will assist reduce carbon emissions by around 330 to 390 tonnes each year. He informed that in the coming days, this service will be expanded to other cities of the state, and an allocation of about Rs 238 crore has been made for proper maintenance.
The Chief Minister said that this initiative will position Odisha as a leading state in the country in the field of ‘Green Mobility’.
Appealing to the people of the district, the Chief Minister said that the next 10 years are a decade of resolve for Odisha. Keonjhar will play the most crucial role in building a prosperous Odisha by 2036.
On the occasion, Chief Minister Majhi presented Rs 5,75,000 in financial assistance to six recipients of various welfare projects. This included Rs 50,000 in marriage support for Hemant Mahanta of Keonjhar and Rs 3,05,000 for Labanga Mahanta’s death benefit. Similarly, the ‘Udyami’ initiative provided Rs 60,000 each to Maa Mangala SHG of Champua, Banita Naik of Joda, and Kedar Chandra Nayak of Jhumpura, while Neelam Mahakud received Rs 40,000.
Several luminaries attended the occasion, including Dr. Fakir Mohan Nayak, Chairman of the Keonjhar District Planning Committee, MP Ananta Nayak, Patna MLA Akhila Chandra Naik, Special Development Council Chairperson Mamita Naik, and District Collector Vishal Singh.
