CM Majhi Launches ₹633 Cr Projects, ₹126 Cr Loans for SHGs

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday launched development projects worth ₹633 crore in Subarnapur district and distributed interest-free loans totaling ₹126 crore to 1,848 self-help groups (SHGs), highlighting the crucial role of women in Odisha’s growth and rural transformation.

Addressing a large gathering at the Subhadra Shakti Mela, the Chief Minister said women associated with self-help groups are not merely beneficiaries of government schemes but active contributors to the state’s development. He praised their discipline, hard work and entrepreneurial spirit, noting that their efforts have significantly strengthened the rural economy.

Earlier in the day, Majhi paid homage at the Samadhi Peeth of Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi in Khaliapali. He interacted with members of the management committee and saints and announced that the Samadhi Peeth would be developed at a cost of ₹35 crore in honour of the poet-saint who shaped Odisha’s social and spiritual consciousness.

Among the major projects unveiled was the construction of a river reservoir at Maraduguchha worth ₹557 crore. Other key projects included an open-air theatre at the Culture House (₹11.23 crore), renovation of Gandhi Stadium (₹25.28 crore), and improvement of the Block Chowk Junction Road (₹4.23 crore).

In addition, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 58 other projects valued at ₹276 crore. Of these, foundation stones were laid for 24 projects worth ₹173 crore, while 34 projects worth ₹103 crore were inaugurated. These initiatives cover infrastructure development in roads, drinking water, irrigation, education, health, rural development and urban development.

Highlighting women’s empowerment, Majhi handed over interest-free loans of ₹126 crore to SHGs, stating that the financial assistance would boost women-led enterprises, promote self-reliance and improve livelihoods across the district.

He also underlined the government’s inclusive development approach, saying efforts are being made to empower the poor, tribals, women and youth. He said rural areas are seeing improvements in roads, drinking water, irrigation and housing, while urban regions are witnessing stronger civic amenities and public services. The Chief Minister added that industrial projects worth over ₹1,000 crore have already been implemented in Subarnapur and that the district holds vast potential in agriculture, handicrafts, culture and tourism.

Birmaharajpur MLA Raghunath Jagadala praised the Chief Minister’s initiatives, stating that several development projects have been launched in Subarnapur within a short period and that the government is focused on strengthening agriculture, irrigation and tourism.

District Collector Nrupraj Sahu delivered the welcome address, and District Chief Development Officer Aswini Kumar Meher proposed the vote of thanks.