THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

ROURKELA, APRIL 21, 2026

Stressing that the dream of a developed India can only be realised through the collective participation of all sections of society, President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said that farmers, labourers, tribal communities, youth, and citizens from both rural and urban areas must work together with dedication to build a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. She added that a similar spirit of inclusiveness and all-round development would be vital for shaping a “Viksit Odisha” as the state approaches its centenary year in 2036.

The President was addressing a public function in Rourkela, where she inaugurated a Planetarium and Science Centre, Nirmal Munda Parivesh Path, a Tribal Museum, and an Integrated Command and Control Centre, marking a significant boost to the region’s cultural, educational, and urban infrastructure.

Highlighting the rich heritage of Sundargarh district, the President noted that its natural beauty, vibrant folk traditions, and cultural legacy contribute immensely to Odisha’s identity. She described the region as a land of dense forests, scenic landscapes, and talented individuals, particularly in the field of sports.

She also lauded Rourkela’s cosmopolitan character, stating that people from across India have settled in the city for livelihood, making it a melting pot of cultures. This diversity, she said, has helped promote Odisha’s art, literature, tribal traditions, and sporting excellence.

Emphasising inclusive growth, the President said that national development is possible only when every section of society progresses. She underlined the efforts of both Central and State governments in implementing welfare schemes aimed at the upliftment of tribal communities, particularly in districts like Sundargarh, where such initiatives are accelerating socio-economic transformation.

Calling upon citizens to actively contribute to nation-building, she urged people to move forward while also supporting others who may be left behind. She stressed the importance of compassion, social responsibility, and collective progress in shaping a stronger and more equitable India.