President Droupadi Murmu has made a significant train journey from Bhubaneswar to Berhampur in Odisha, marking her as the first sitting President to undertake such a trip. This journey is part of her three-day itinerary, which features visits to temples and various official duties.

On Tuesday, in a landmark event for the state of Odisha, President Murmu, alongside Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, set off from Bhubaneswar Railway Station aboard a special train destined for Berhampur. This trip is a rare occurrence, as it is the first time a sitting President of India has traveled to Berhampur Railway Station by train.

Robust Security Measures

To ensure safety, comprehensive security protocols were implemented by the Commissionerate of Police, Government Railway Police (GRP), and Railway Protection Force (RPF). A multi-layered security perimeter was established at Bhubaneswar station, with platforms 1 and 2 designated solely for the Presidential Special Train.

Spiritual and Official Activities

Upon her arrival in Berhampur, the President’s convoy is expected to head to the renowned hot-spring shrine at Taptapani in the Ganjam district. President Murmu plans to offer special prayers and perform aarti at the esteemed Maa Kandhuni Devi Temple, along with the nearby Shiva Temple.

After her temple visits, she will proceed to Gopalpur, where she is set to spend the night at the facilities of the Army Air Defence College / Army School. Her three-day visit to Odisha commenced yesterday with the inauguration of Jagadguru Kripalu University in Cuttack and will wrap up tomorrow when she returns to the national capital.

India-Uzbekistan Diplomatic Engagements

Earlier on Monday, President Murmu held a meeting with Uzbekistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Saidov Bakhtiyor Odilovich, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This high-level dialogue highlighted the growing partnership between New Delhi and Tashkent, focusing on areas such as trade, critical minerals, educational exchanges, and shared cultural backgrounds.

Both leaders expressed their dedication to enhancing strategic cooperation within Central Asia, agreeing that the discussions during this visit would serve to strengthen the ties of friendship, trust, and collaboration between their two countries.