Odisha Day 2025: Naveen Patnaik Calls for Unity and Pride in Odia Identity

Odisha’s Journey of Progress Unstoppable, Says CM on Utkala Dibasa​

Bhubaneswar, April 1 – Marking the 89th Utkala Dibasa, Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik urged the people of Odisha to take pride in their heritage and identity as ‘proud Odias’, asserting that “no one can stop the development of Odisha.”

Addressing a spirited gathering at the party’s headquarters, Sankha Bhawan, Patnaik celebrated the state's unique history and unwavering progress, stating, “Odisha is the first state in India to be created on a linguistic basis—an important event in the country's history.”

Odisha’s Development Journey: 2000 to 2024 a “New Era”​

Reflecting on the state’s transformation over the past two decades, Patnaik said, “The period from 2000 to 2024 marks a new era of Odisha’s development. We are continuously making efforts to make Odisha a prosperous state.” He added that Odisha is now playing a significant role in the nation’s development.

The chief minister also highlighted key milestones such as the recognition of Odia as a classical language and the establishment of Odia University, which has amplified the cultural and linguistic pride of the state. He noted the establishment of academic chairs for Odia research across various universities in the country.

Dramatic Poverty Reduction and Cultural Revival​

In his address, Patnaik emphasized the reduction of poverty in the state: “Poverty has come down from 70% to 10%.” He also celebrated the revival and recognition of Odisha’s historic roots, with development in the birthplaces of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Dash and Utkala Gourav Madhusudan Das.

Vision for 2036: Odisha’s Centenary Year​

Looking ahead to Odisha’s 100th foundation day in 2036, Patnaik invoked the legacy of his father, Biju Patnaik, stating, “His dream was to make Odisha the No. 1 state in Asia. With everyone’s cooperation and effort, this dream can be realised.”

Honouring Contributors to Odisha’s Glory​

On the occasion, Patnaik felicitated prominent personalities for their contributions to the state's progress:

• Padma Shri Dr. Devi Prasanna Patnaik, noted linguist
• Dr. Dinesh Sarangi, former Jharkhand minister
• Dr. Mini Sarangi, poet
• Mamata Raut, Everest climber

The Utkala Dibasa celebrations at Sankha Bhawan included patriotic songs, and tributes to freedom fighters and visionaries who played pivotal roles in Odisha’s formation as a separate state based on linguistic identity.