Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Majhi inaugurated the ‘Ghare Ghare Tiranga’ campaign in Bhubaneswar on the significant day of August Kranti Diwas, urging the 4.5 crore residents of Odisha to proudly display the National Flag at their homes, villages, panchayats, schools, and offices from August 9 to 17.
During his speech, the Chief Minister paid homage to freedom fighters, martyrs, and the illustrious sons of Odisha, recalling the Quit India Movement that commenced on August 9, 1942, at Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan, which redefined India’s quest for independence. “The Tricolour embodies not just three colors; it symbolizes the self-respect, pride, and dreams of 140 crore Indians,” Majhi stated.
He explained the meaning behind the colors of the flag: saffron stands for courage and sacrifice, white represents peace and truth, green symbolizes prosperity, and the Ashoka Chakra inspires a continuous commitment to the nation.
Emphasizing environmental consciousness, the Chief Minister called for the complete rejection of plastic flags, advocating for the use of cloth flags to honor this sacred national celebration.
Vibrant Rally Celebrates Patriotism
The campaign launch included a grand rally (padayatra) in the capital, filled with patriotic fervor. Thousands, including students from schools and colleges, Scouts and Guides, NCC and NSS volunteers, and international athletes, participated, marching with flags and chanting slogans like “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” The event was enlivened by cultural performances from various traditional folk dance troupes from Odisha.
Addressing the youth, particularly ‘Gen-Z’, the Chief Minister cautioned against negative external influences, misuse of social media, and substance abuse aimed at misleading the younger generation. He urged them to prioritize patriotism, rallying under the slogan: “One voice of youth power — our country will be secure!”
Odisha’s Contribution to ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’
CM Majhi expressed confidence that Odisha will play a pivotal role in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’ He noted that the efforts of farmers, workers, youth, and self-sufficient women in the state will position Odisha as a key driver of India’s economic and industrial advancement. He also encouraged citizens to pay tribute to the families of brave soldiers and police personnel during Independence Day celebrations.
Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Chief Ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, Commerce Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, School Minister Nityananda Gond, and Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. Other attendees included Kandhamal MP Sukanta Kumar Panigrahi, Digapahandi MLA Siddhant Mohapatra, Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh, and various BJP officials.
Internationally recognized athletes from Odisha, such as Pramod Bhagat, Anupama Swain, Sunil Pradhan, Rabi Kumar, and Kamala Kanta Nayak, were also in attendance, inspiring youth with their patriotism and enthusiasm.
