PM Modi Pushes 'Purvodaya' Vision, Pitches Eastern India as Growth Engine in Odisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a rally in Rairangpur, Odisha, on Saturday, reiterated his government's 'Purvodaya' mission, which aims to accelerate the development of eastern India. He described the region as a former symbol of backwardness during the Congress era that is now transforming into a gateway to progress.

Modi's remarks came during a visit to Mayurbhanj district, the home district of President Droupadi Murmu. Together, they visited Pahadpur village to offer prayers at sacred groves, including the Santhali Jahera and Ho Jahera. The Prime Minister framed the visit as part of the government's commitment to inclusive growth.

Addressing a large gathering, Modi said, 'The vision of the central government is the development of India through the development of Eastern India. The Purvodaya policy is unlocking the immense potential of the eastern states.' He inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 47,600 crore, marking the two-year anniversary of the BJP government in Odisha.

The 'Purvodaya' initiative, launched in 2018, focuses on infrastructure, connectivity, and industrial growth in states like Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and the northeastern states. Critics, however, have argued that the region's development has been uneven and that more concrete outcomes are needed. The Prime Minister's visit underscores the political significance of eastern India ahead of upcoming state elections.

President Murmu, who hails from a tribal community in Odisha, joined the Prime Minister in paying respects at the sacred groves, highlighting the cultural and spiritual dimensions of the trip. The event was covered by media, with the Prime Minister's office sharing images on social media.