Rourkela: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated several projects, including Planetarium and Science Centre, Nirmal Munda Parivesh Path, a Tribal Museum, and an Integrated Command and Control Centre, worth Rs 158 crore during her daylong visit to Rourkela on Tuesday.
These initiatives aim to boost education, culture, tribal heritage preservation, and urban governance in the region.
Speaking at the public function, the President spoke about the natural beauty, folk culture and heritage of Sundargarh. “The allure of its dense forests, mountains, waterfalls and rivers is boundless. The art and culture of Sundargarh have further enriched the cultural abundance of Odisha,” she said, noting that it is also the land of brave individuals and sports enthusiasts.
Murmu further stated that Rourkela, a cosmopolitan city where people from various parts of the country reside for employment and livelihood, has played a pioneering role in promoting Odisha’s art, literature, culture, tribal traditions, and sports.
She emphasised that inclusive national development requires empowering every section of society, particularly tribal communities. She mentioned ongoing efforts by the central and state governments through various welfare schemes to accelerate progress in tribal-dominated areas like Sundargarh, with a strong focus on uplifting the communities economically.
The President urged citizens to actively participate in nation-building by advancing themselves while supporting others, becoming responsible individuals who help uplift marginalised groups. “Our nation is rapidly marching towards becoming Viksit Bharat by the centenary year of our independence in 2047. Similarly, the year 2036 will mark the completion of one hundred years since the formation of the state of Odisha. To build a Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat, all-round development and the participation of people from every section of society are essential,” she added.
Earlier in the day, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Majhi received her at the Veer Surendra Sai (VSS) Airport in Jharsuguda from where she proceeded in a helicopter to the Steel City. On her arrival in Rourkela, the President witnessed cultural events and also interacted with the participating students. Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram was also present on the occasion.
