President of India Addresses Members of the Odisha Legislative Assembly

President Highlights Vision for a Prosperous Odisha by 2036

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, addressed the members of the Odisha Legislative Assembly at Bhubaneswar today (November 27, 2025). During her remarks, she reflected on her earlier experiences in the Assembly, noting that the occasion brought back memories from her time as both a legislator and a minister in the same House.

The President stated that Odisha has played an important role in India’s freedom struggle and national development. She referred to the region as the land where Chandashoka transformed into Dharmashok and added that tribal communities in Odisha have demonstrated exemplary courage in resisting foreign rule.

Emphasis on Women’s Empowerment and Legislative Traditions

The President highlighted the long-standing tradition of women’s empowerment in Odisha. She noted with appreciation that the Odisha Legislative Assembly has consistently maintained women’s representation both before and after independence. She said that women from the state have earned national recognition across diverse fields.

The President observed that the Assembly has enacted a wide range of laws aimed at public welfare. She expressed satisfaction that the 17th Legislative Assembly has conducted several productive sessions within a short period and acknowledged the Assembly’s strong culture of dialogue.

Progress Across Sectors and Odisha’s Development Potential

The President said that Odisha is progressing rapidly and commended the state government for implementing new initiatives in agriculture, education, health, development of tribal and other disadvantaged groups, housing, and disaster management. She also noted that industrialization in the state is advancing through the combined efforts of the central and state governments.

The President remarked that Odisha is endowed with natural resources including minerals, forests, water, and human capital. She stated that the state’s environment is favorable for the growth of agriculture, industry, and commerce. By utilizing these strengths, she said, Odisha can be developed into a leading state in the country.

Call for Collective Efforts Toward 2036 and Responsibility of MLAs

The President noted that the centenary of Odisha’s formation will be observed in 2036. She said that if all stakeholders work together to build a prosperous Odisha by that year, it would serve as the state’s greatest contribution to achieving the national goal of making India a developed nation by 2047. She expressed confidence that everyone would work with a spirit of putting the nation first.

The President said that MLAs serve as representatives of the people and that citizens of Odisha place significant trust and expectations in them. She stated that it is their responsibility to meet these expectations, help realize the aspirations of the people, and bring happiness to their lives.

Conduct of Public Representatives in the Technological Era

The President noted that this is an era shaped by technology in which MLAs have many admirers and followers who closely observe their actions and statements. She said that both their words and conduct carry great value, inside and outside the House. She added that their behavior should set an example that guides their followers in contributing positively to society and the state.