Odisha celebrates 72nd Independence Day

Bhubaneswar: The 72^nd Independence Day was celebrated with much patriotic fervour in Odisha on Wednesday.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik hoisted the national flag at Mahatma Gandhi Marg here.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister recalled sacrifices of the freedom fighters on the occasion.

Patnaik said Odisha has carved a niche in terms of development in the country.

He said the state government is giving priority to farmers, women and youths of the state.

They are being provided with the loan at 1% interest rate, he added.

“After the success of the Asian Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar, the city will be hosting the Hockey World Cup in November this year. It is a matter of pride for us,” the Chief Minister said.

Tight security arrangements were made across the state on the occasion.

Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik created a sand art wishing the people of the country on the occasion of 72^nd Independence Day.