Sonepur, Feb 2: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the Subhadra Shakti Mela in Sonepur district, where he announced a series of major development initiatives aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure and empowering women-led enterprises.

Addressing the gathering, the Odisha Chief Minister emphasized the crucial role of self-help groups (SHGs) in state’s development journey. He noted that the hard work, discipline, and entrepreneurial spirit of women in SHGs have transformed the rural economy.

To further support them, he sanctioned interest-free loans worth ₹126 crore for 1,848 SHGs in Sonepur, enabling women to expand their livelihood opportunities and achieve greater self-reliance.

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CM Majhi also announced new projects worth ₹633 crore for the district. These include the construction of a river-based reservoir at Marudagochha with an investment of ₹557 crore, an open-air theatre at the Sanskriti Bhavan for ₹11.23 crore, renovation of Gandhi Stadium at a cost of ₹25.28 crore, and road improvement at Block Chhak Junction worth ₹4.23 crore.

In addition, the Odisha CM inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 58 development projects valued at ₹276 crore. Among these, 24 projects worth ₹173 crore were launched through foundation laying, while 34 projects worth ₹103 crore were inaugurated.

These projects cover key sectors such as roads, drinking water, irrigation, education, healthcare, rural development, and urban infrastructure, promising to strengthen the district’s socio-economic fabric.

Highlighting Odisha’s cultural and spiritual heritage, CM Majhi announced a ₹35 crore plan for the comprehensive development of the Samadhi Peetha of Santha Kabi (saint-poet) Bhima Bhoi, whose legacy continues to inspire social and spiritual consciousness in the state.

The Subhadra Shakti Mela also witnessed distribution of financial assistance to beneficiaries of various government schemes, reinforcing the state’s commitment to inclusive growth.