Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday unveiled a series of development initiatives in Keonjhar district, spanning education, infrastructure, and connectivity, while urging youth to become job creators and drivers of innovation.
Addressing students at the silver jubilee celebration of the Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar, Majhi called upon young minds to move beyond conventional employment goals. “Do not be mere job seekers, but become individuals who create jobs,” he said in a series of posts on X, emphasising the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in shaping a developed Odisha by 2036.
Highlighting the importance of youth power, Majhi expressed confidence that the next generation will play a decisive role in building a prosperous state through technology, skills, and enterprise.
In a major boost to rural connectivity, the CM also inaugurated a newly constructed bridge over the Ardei canal at Bodapalasa under Keonjhar Sadar. The project, fulfilling a long-pending demand of local residents, is expected to benefit more than 5,000 people across multiple panchayats.
Stretching over 100 metres, the bridge will significantly ease daily commuting, enhance passenger transport, and promote local trade and economic activities. It is also expected to strengthen rural connectivity and reduce travel time for residents in the region.
Further strengthening the education sector, Majhi attended the centenary celebration of Chandrashekhara Government High School in Bodapalasa. Announcing a financial package of ₹10 crore for the institution, he said the funds will support infrastructure development and modernization efforts. He also directed authorities to allocate seven acres of land for the school’s expansion.
Describing schools as institutions that shape character and future generations, the chief minister said education plays a vital role in nation-building and urged students to strive for excellence.
On the infrastructure front, Majhi also inaugurated a newly constructed underpass at Langalakanti on the Panikoili–Rimuli section of NH-20. The project aims to improve road safety and ensure smoother traffic flow on one of the state’s key highways connecting industrial, mining, and commercial hubs.
The underpass is expected to reduce congestion in nearby areas, including Tikira, Dhenkikote, and Barabeda. Designed as a grade separator, it will facilitate uninterrupted vehicular movement while also providing safe pedestrian crossing for local residents.
Majhi also said these initiatives reflect the state government’s continued focus on strengthening infrastructure, improving education, and accelerating overall development in Odisha.
