Dharmendra Pradhan Urges Youth to Learn From History; Honours Padma Awardees at Gangadhar Meher University

Sambalpur, Aug 8: Sambalpur MP and former Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan honoured Padma awardees from western Odisha at the ‘Matira Mahak’ programme held at the Rangabati Manch of Gangadhar Meher University in Sambalpur on Saturday.

Addressing the event, Pradhan said Padma awardees who have created a distinct identity through their dedication and talent are living examples of inspiration for society.

He said the Padma Awards have now become a “People’s Award” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. According to Pradhan, the awards are increasingly recognising people from rural areas who have dedicated themselves to folk art, literature, agriculture, education and social service.

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Preserving Language, Culture And Heritage
Referring to the contributions of poet Gangadhar Meher to Odia society and literature, Pradhan spoke about his experience during his visit to Kotia in Koraput.

He said the visit highlighted the importance of providing education in the mother tongue. Pradhan stressed the need to respect one’s language, culture and traditions while understanding the region’s history.

Youth Urged To Learn From History
Pradhan urged the younger generation to study the history of Odisha, including the valour of freedom fighters such as Veer Surendra Sai, the Kudopali struggle, Buxi Jagabandhu and Pindiki Bahubalendra, as well as the contributions and dedication of Padma awardees.

He said learning from the state’s history and its achievers would help pave the way for a “developed Odisha” and a “developed India”.

Proposal For Art College In Sambalpur
Pradhan also called for collective efforts to establish an art college in Sambalpur in the name of Sanskrit playwright Murari Mishra.

He said the proposed institution could eventually emerge as a centre for education in dance, literature, performing arts, modern digital art and allied disciplines.

Padma Awardees Honoured
During the event, Pradhan honoured Padma awardees from western Odisha, including Bhagabat Pradhan, Srinibash Udgata, Pattayat Sahu, Haldhar Nag, Jitendra Haripal, Mitrabhanu Gountia, Kailash Chandra Meher and Mahendra Kumar Mishra.

He congratulated them for their contributions and achievements.