Modi Joins Droupadi Murmu's Birthday Celebrations In Odisha

Pahadpur/Bhubaneswar: In a rare and symbolic gesture suggesting the growing prominence of tribal leadership in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday travelled to Pahadpur village in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district to join President Droupadi Murmu in celebrating her 68th birthday at her ancestral home.

The visit, marked by cultural programmes, interactions with villagers and tribals, and announcements aimed at rural development, highlighted the Centre's focus on tribal empowerment and inclusive growth. The Prime Minister, accompanied by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other dignitaries, participated in social and cultural events organised at Jahira, the sacred worship site of the Santhal community.

Addressing a large gathering where he unveiled projects worth Rs 47,000 crore, Modi described the occasion as a deeply emotional and inspiring experience.

“Today I am fortunate to be present in the village of the President of India on her birthday. I witnessed how affectionately she interacted with the children of her village and showered blessings upon them. Those children may not fully realise that they are meeting the President of India. For them, she is their mother who has returned to her village with love and blessings,” the Prime Minister said.

Modi said the President's life journey—from a remote tribal village in Odisha to the highest constitutional office in the country—serves as a powerful inspiration for millions of Indians, particularly those belonging to marginalised and tribal communities.

Making a significant announcement, the Prime Minister declared that Pahadpur would be developed as a model solar-powered village under the government's renewable energy mission.

“Every household in Pahadpur will be equipped with solar power facilities. This village will be transformed into a 'Suryagram' or Solar Village. Work has already begun in this direction. Villagers will not only receive free electricity but will also be able to earn additional income by selling surplus power," Modi said.

The project is expected to serve as a model for sustainable rural development and clean energy adoption in tribal and remote regions across the country.

The Prime Minister highlighted the Centre's sustained focus on tribal welfare and education. Referring to the expansion of Ekalavya Model Residential Schools, he said nearly 500 such institutions are already functioning across the country and another 750 have been approved.

“Education remains the strongest instrument of empowerment. Through Ekalavya schools and various scholarship programmes, the government is ensuring that tribal children receive quality education and opportunities comparable to those available in urban India,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted that the Union Government's tribal welfare initiatives have significantly expanded over the last decade, with increased investments in education, healthcare, skill development, connectivity and livelihood generation.

The Prime Minister used the occasion to commend the performance of the Odisha government under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, describing it as a people-centric administration committed to fulfilling public aspirations.

“Odisha is making rapid progress under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Majhi. The state is witnessing accelerated industrialisation, infrastructure development, skill enhancement and employment generation. Development is reaching every section of society,” Modi said.

Highlighting Odisha's economic achievements, he said the state has successfully leveraged its rich natural resources and youthful human capital to emerge as a major investment destination.

Referring to the Utkarsh Odisha initiative, Modi said investment commitments worth nearly Rs 20 lakh crore have been attracted to the state, while mega projects worth approximately Rs 3.5 lakh crore are currently under implementation.

He further noted that investments exceeding Rs 6,000 crore are being made in the power sector to strengthen energy infrastructure and improve industrial competitiveness.

“The biggest strength of the double-engine government is its commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people. Many key pre-election assurances have already been translated into action," he added.

The Prime Minister also highlighted various welfare programmes launched for farmers, tribal communities, unemployed youth, women and students from economically weaker sections.

President Murmu expresses gratitude

Speaking on the occasion, President Droupadi Murmu expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for travelling to her native village and participating in the celebrations.

She described Modi's presence at Pahadpur and his participation in the Santhal community's traditional worship ceremony as a reflection of his affection and commitment towards tribal communities.

"The Prime Minister's presence here today reflects his unwavering love, affection and concern for the people of this region and for tribal communities across the country," the President said.

Murmu also appreciated the efforts of the Odisha government towards women's empowerment, particularly the implementation of the Subhadra Yojana.

She noted that the scheme provides annual financial assistance of Rs 10,000 to eligible women between 21 and 60 years of age in two instalLments, helping strengthen their economic independence and social security.

CM Majhi highlights governance reforms

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi outlined the achievements of his government over the past two years, detailing various welfare schemes and governance reforms aimed at accelerating Odisha's development.

He said the state government is focusing on women's empowerment, employment generation, industrial growth, agricultural support, infrastructure expansion and improved delivery of public services.

Majhi reiterated his government's commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development reach the poorest and most vulnerable sections of society, particularly tribal communities residing in remote regions.