Argus News - Dharmendra Pradhan to Lay Foundation Stone for New Tiger Enclosure at Sambalpur Zoo Today

Sambalpur, Nov 24: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan continues his three-day visit to western Odisha, Monday, marking his second day of public engagements in the region.

The visit comes shortly after the NDA’s emphatic victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, where Pradhan played a significant role in the campaign.

Union Minister Pradhan is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for a new tiger enclosure at the Sambalpur Zoo, a project aimed at boosting wildlife conservation and tourism in the district.

Also read: Dharmendra Pradhan Receives Warm Welcome in Western Odisha After Bihar Triumph

Later in the day, he will attend a district-level celebration of All India Cooperative Week at Tapaswini Hall in the District Auditorium. The event is likely to bring together cooperative leaders, officials, and community representatives to highlight the importance of cooperative movements in strengthening rural economies.

In the afternoon, Dharmendra Pradhan is scheduled to take part in the Sansad Khel Mahotsav award ceremony at Veer Surendra Sai Stadium. The programme will celebrate sporting talent from across the region, with Pradhan emphasising the role of sports in youth empowerment and national development.

This marks Pradhan’s first visit to western Odisha after the Bihar election victory. He was accorded a grand welcome Sunday evening at Jharsuguda Airport, where senior BJP leaders, MLAs, and hundreds of party workers greeted him.

He also offered prayers at Maa Samaleswari Temple in Sambalpur, receiving a traditional reception from local residents.

The Union Education Minister’s engagements in Sambalpur reflect both cultural and developmental priorities, ranging from wildlife initiatives to cooperative movements and youth sports. His presence has energised party workers and supporters across the region, underscoring the BJP’s focus on western Odisha as a key political and developmental hub.

The minister is scheduled to continue his programmes in the district for one more day, interacting with local communities and participating in events.