Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik said it was a moment of immense pride for Odisha that the President of India—who comes from the state—addressed the Odisha Legislative Assembly today.
Patnaik, welcoming her to the House, said the President’s address holds exceptional importance at a time when the nation is confronting several complex challenges.
Highlighting India’s diverse cultural fabric, he said, “Our nation’s strength lies in its unity amidst an array of languages, traditions, lifestyles and ideas.”
Reflecting on India’s post-Independence journey, Patnaik noted that the integration of princely states had been a formidable task. He reminded the Assembly that Odisha pioneered this historic process when Nilagiri and other states merged with the Indian Union on November 14, 1947, setting an example for the rest of the country.
He also paid tribute to Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das for his pivotal role in the creation of a separate Odisha province—the first state in India formed on linguistic lines. Patnaik said this was accomplished through democratic and constitutional means, with support from several national leaders.
Addressing the President, he said, “As the custodian of our Constitution—which recently completed 75 years—the nation looks to you for guidance and inspiration in upholding the core values that define India.”
Patnaik further stated that Odisha has made remarkable strides across multiple sectors over the past two decades. Be it disaster preparedness, agriculture, women’s empowerment, poverty reduction, health and education reforms, infrastructure expansion or fostering industrial growth, Odisha has emerged as an example for the country, he said.
He emphasised that the state’s success in disaster management has been globally recognised, becoming a model for the rest of India.
Noting Odisha’s abundant natural resources and talented workforce, Patnaik said the state possesses immense potential for future development, and collective effort is needed to elevate Odisha to greater heights.
Extending his greetings on behalf of the Opposition benches, he concluded by warmly welcoming the President to the Assembly and expressed eagerness to hear her address.
