By Our Correspondent
SAMBALPUR/BHUBANESWAR:Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan today inaugurated the Odisha Adarsh Vidyalaya at Redhakhol, Sambalpur on the occasion of ‘Good Governance Day’ and dedicated and laid the foundation stone of 40 public interest projects worth over Rs. 245 crore 57 lakh.
On this occasion, Shri Pradhan remembered former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and recalled his contribution to Odisha and the country. He said that Atalji was always committed to the development of Odisha and said that there would be no shortage of funds for the reconstruction of Odisha, which was devastated during the Mahabharata. He said that the Sambalpur-Talcher railway line was possible due to his vision. He said that the projects inaugurated and foundation stone laid on a holy day like today will improve the quality of education in Redhakhol and further accelerate the development process.
Highlighting the local significance, Shri Pradhan said that Redhakhol is a holy land. When it comes to this region, the story of the preacher of Mahami Dharma, the poet Bhim Bhoi, who showed a ray of light in the darkness, comes to mind. This land is his meditation place. He said in his timeless words: “I see the suffering of living beings, unsatisfied, and I see how much I suffer, even if I fall into hell for my life, may the world be saved.” This line is not just a poem, but an inspiration and a model for all the developmental programs of today.
He added that Redhakhol is a historical place. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has brought to light the historical importance of Bhima Mandal. Through the process of ‘carbon dating’ it is known that the age of Bhima Mandal is about thousands of years ago. In this context, the Double Engine Government is making continuous efforts for the development of this region in view of its importance. It has been decided to open a new ‘PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya’ in Redhakhol, which will be functional from the next academic year.
Similarly, the government has expressed its commitment to the development of the region by adopting Nakti Deula block as an ‘Aspirational Block’. Redhakhol has also benefited from the ‘Pradhan Mantri Uchhat Shiksha Abhiyan’ scheme. The government is providing Rs. 3100 per quintal of paddy to the farmers to provide financial prosperity. Today, about 500 beneficiaries have been linked to various welfare schemes and government facilities have been transferred to them. Shri Pradhan appealed to us to work together for the all-round development of Redhakhol in every basic sector like education, health, transportation and irrigation.
