Angul, Apr 25: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday attended a ‘Bantan Mela’ programme -- an initiative under which lost or stolen mobile phones and motorcycles were recovered and returned to their rightful owners -- organised by the Angul district police.

Addressing the gathering, Pradhan said, the initiative reflects the police administration’s commitment to citizen welfare.

“Efforts that bring back people’s belongings and restore smiles on their faces strengthen public confidence,” he said.

The Minister further highlighted the distribution of special identity cards for senior citizens, stating that such measures demonstrate the sensitivity and inclusive approach of the police towards vulnerable groups.

Referring to broader reforms, Pradhan noted that the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita marks a shift towards a more people-oriented justice system rooted in Indian values. He added that Angul police have set an example by balancing crime control with social responsibility and effective enforcement of new legal frameworks.

Among others present at the event were Dhenkanal MP Rudra Narayan Pany, Angul MLA Pratap Chandra Pradhan, Chhendipada MLA Agasti Behera, and senior district police officials.

Also Read: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates, Lays Foundation For 124 Projects Worth Rs 278 Crore In Deogarh

Earlier in the day, Pradhan inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple infrastructure projects worth Rs 278.49 crore in Deogarh district, marking a significant push to local development.

The programme, held at Bada Bagicha ground in Pradhanpat, saw the inauguration of 63 projects and the foundation laying of 61 others. Odisha Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, Deogarh MLA Romancha Ranjan Biswal and Collector Kabindra Kumar Sahoo were among those present.