Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches ₹250 Crore Projects in Rairakhol
Major education, security, and police infrastructure projects unveiled across Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday laid the foundation stones for development projects worth ₹250 crore at Rairakhol in Sambalpur district. The occasion marked the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, observed as Shushasan Diwas across the country.
The projects aim to strengthen education, public infrastructure, and regional development in western Odisha, reflecting the government’s focus on balanced growth and good governance.
Projects unveiled on Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s birth anniversary
Addressing the gathering, Dharmendra Pradhan said the day was dedicated to remembering Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s vision of transparent and people-centric governance. He said projects worth around ₹250 crore were launched as part of Shushasan Diwas celebrations, reinforcing the government’s commitment to development-driven governance.
The projects include infrastructure upgrades and public facilities that are expected to benefit local communities and improve access to essential services in the region.
Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya inaugurated in Sambalpur
As part of his visit, the Union Minister also inaugurated a new Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya in Sambalpur district. The school is part of the state’s initiative to provide quality education to students, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
The Adarsha Vidyalaya scheme focuses on improving learning outcomes, modern facilities, and access to quality schooling for students from economically weaker backgrounds.
CM Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurates major security infrastructure
Earlier in the day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated a state-of-the-art Training and Briefing Centre for the Special Operations Group (SOG) at Chandaka near Bhubaneswar. The new facility has the capacity to train up to 400 jawans at a time.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated a modern Counter Terrorism Training Centre at the same location, aimed at enhancing the preparedness and operational efficiency of elite security forces in the state.
New police infrastructure across 16 districts
According to an official release, CM Majhi also inaugurated multiple police infrastructure projects across 16 districts. These include 16 new police stations, 70 residential quarters, office buildings, barracks, armouries, and administrative blocks.
The expansion and modernisation of police infrastructure are expected to improve law enforcement capacity, strengthen internal security, and enhance public safety across Odisha.
Strong message against violence and Maoism
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said violence has no place in a democratic society. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to take strict action against organisations and individuals involved in violent activities.
The Chief Minister appealed to Maoists to surrender, join the mainstream, and contribute to development. He said the Special Operations Group has played a crucial role in curbing Maoist activities in Odisha over the past three decades.
Majhi added that Odisha has met the Central Government’s deadline to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026, marking a major milestone in the state’s internal security efforts.
Risk allowance announced for SOG personnel
In a significant announcement, CM Majhi declared a risk allowance for personnel of the Special Operations Group and other anti-Naxal forces. From December onwards, SOG officers directly involved in anti-Naxal operations will receive a maximum monthly risk allowance of ₹25,000.
The move is aimed at recognising the sacrifices and challenging conditions faced by security personnel working in high-risk areas.
Focus on development, security, and governance
The series of inaugurations and announcements highlight the Odisha government’s dual focus on development and security. While new education and infrastructure projects aim to improve quality of life and opportunities, investments in security infrastructure reflect the state’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability.
The events held on Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s birth anniversary underscored the government’s emphasis on good governance, inclusive growth, and a secure future for Odisha.
