Odisha celebrates 77th Independence Day

Bhubaneswar: The 77th Independence Day was celebrated across Odisha on Tuesday.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik hoisted the tricolour at Exhibition Ground here.

He paid tribute to freedom fighters who have sacrificed their lives in freedom movements.

Addressing the gathering, the CM said the development of poor people, farmers, women, tribals and youth is real progress.

“Odisha is undergoing major transformation in education, healthcare, tourism, infrastructure and other fields due to application of 5T principle. The economy of the state has strengthened as the number of poor people has receded. The state has been receiving investments worth lakhs of rupees, creating employment opportunities for youth,” the CM said.

“The government has decided to open banking outlets in 4373 unbanked panchayats of the state. With this, people residing in every panchayat of Odisha will have access to banking services. Senior citizens, women and physically challenged persons will be the major beneficiaries of this initiative,” said Patnaik.