Ganjam, Jun 23: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday declared that Odisha is entering a golden era for its youth, with vast opportunities emerging across sectors.

Addressing a state-level “Yuva Shakti Sammelan” in Aska, Ganjam district, the CM emphasized that the state’s ambitious goal of becoming a $500 billion economy by 2036 and a $1.5 trillion economy by 2047 hinges on the strength and potential of its 1.7 crore youth aged 15–35.

Highlighting Ganjam’s rich cultural and political legacy, CM Majhi praised the district’s contributions in arts, music, and leadership.

He laid foundation stones for development projects worth ₹550 crore, including five irrigation schemes, a road expansion project, and a high-level bridge. He also directed the preparation of a revised DPR for the Maa Tara Tarini Temple’s development and announced land allocation for a world-class skill training institute in Polasara.

The CM outlined a roadmap for youth empowerment through quality education, skill development, and employment. Initiatives like the National Education Policy, Nipun Odisha, and the Godabarish Mishra Adarsha Prathamika Vidyalaya scheme aim to strengthen foundational learning.

He also announced 11.25% reservation in higher education for socially and educationally backward students and industry-linked training in 58 colleges.

CM Majhi emphasized Odisha’s industrial transformation under the “Utkarsh Odisha” programme, which has attracted ₹17 lakh crore in investment proposals and created 13 lakh job opportunities.

Within just 150 days, projects worth ₹1.8 lakh crore have been grounded, ensuring 1.1 lakh jobs. Over 28,000 government jobs have already been provided in the past year.

Encouraging youth to pursue sports as a career, the CM said the government is investing heavily in sports infrastructure. He urged young people to recognize their talents, think globally, and strive to be the best, stating, “When Odisha’s youth succeed, the state becomes the growth engine of Viksit Bharat.”

read more Odisha news