Odisha CM Pitches For ‘Orange Economy’ Model To Drive Jobs Through Culture And Tourism
Majhi links heritage conservation with economic growth at Somnath Swabhiman Parv event in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday pitched for the development of an “Orange Economy” — a culture-driven economic model — as a key strategy for employment generation and tourism-led growth in the state.
Speaking at a special event held at the historic Lingaraj Temple to mark the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple, Majhi said Odisha’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage could become a major engine of economic transformation.
Addressing the gathering during the “Somnath Swabhiman Parv” celebrations, the Chief Minister highlighted what he described as the “deep spiritual connection” between Somnath and Lingaraj temples, saying Somnath represented the spiritual strength of western India while Lingaraj symbolised the enduring cultural force of the East.
The event at Ekamra Peeth witnessed a devotional atmosphere as devotees and dignitaries watched the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating in rituals at Somnath Temple in his capacity as Chairman of the Shree Somnath Temple Trust.
Majhi used the occasion to underline the importance of preserving India’s civilisational heritage and strengthening Saivite religious centres across Odisha. Referring to the reconstruction of Somnath after Independence, he said the temple’s revival under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel symbolised the resurgence of Indian civilisation.
“The reconstruction of Somnath marked the beginning of restoring India’s civilisational pride, and today the country is witnessing a cultural renaissance under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Majhi said.
Drawing parallels with recent heritage projects such as the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and the Ram Mandir, the Odisha Chief Minister said his government was also pursuing the vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” through large-scale investments in cultural infrastructure.
He cited the Rs 330-crore Ekamra Kshetra development project and the proposed Rs 1,000-crore Shri Jagannath Museum initiative as key efforts aimed at positioning Odisha as India’s cultural capital.
Majhi said promoting the “Orange Economy” by leveraging culture, pilgrimage and tourism would not only preserve heritage but also create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities across the state.
