Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Launches Development Projects, Reviews Mega Steel Plant Plans in Keonjhar
Keonjhar, August 3, 2025 – Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi arrived in Keonjhar district this morning to officially kick off a two‑day visit focused on infrastructure development, industrial advancement, and welfare launches across his home region.
Majhi landed at Raisuan Airstrip shortly after 10 AM, where he was received by local elected leaders and officials before traveling by road to the Circuit House. His first engagements included inaugurating newly commissioned ambulance vehicles, including a “Matarani Nadia Sangraha Gadi” and “Ekal Shiksha Rath”, aimed at improving rural healthcare and educational outreach.
At the District Collector’s office, CM Majhi presided over a high-level project review meeting, where officials presented updates on ongoing and upcoming initiatives spanning roads, drinking water, health, and education infrastructure. One highlight announcement: the state will begin land acquisition imminently for a proposed mega steel plant in Keonjhar, marking a major leap in district-level industrialization plans. Majhi confirmed that construction is expected to commence soon, with project sponsors having deposited the necessary funds.
In a mid-afternoon appearance, the Chief Minister served as the chief guest at the final match of the Sahani Cup Football Tournament at the Keonjhar Stadium, celebrating local sporting talent. Following the ceremony, he returned to the Circuit House, where he will stay overnight.
“Keonjhar district had long been overlooked. Lord Jagannath, Maa Tarini and Lord Baladev Jew bless us to uplift this region,” Majhi remarked, committing that education, health and industrial growth now top the government’s priority list.
Agenda & Key Announcements
- Infrastructure upgrades: Ambulatory services and educational mobile units flagged off to boost healthcare and outreach in remote areas.
- Mega steel plant: ₹40,000 crore industrial investment on the horizon, with imminent acquisition of land and preparatory groundwork underway.
- Formal project review: District officials briefed the CM on education, water, urban health facility upgrades, and local road networks.
- Sports and community engagement: CM appeared at Sahani Cup finals, reinforcing youth participation and district pride.
Context & Strategic Relevance
- CM Majhi represents Keonjhar in the Odisha legislative assembly, and this marks his first major engagement in his home constituency since taking office in June 2024.
- Earlier this year, he had inaugurated 16 different development projects worth ₹42 crore across Anandapur subdivision—including classrooms and hospital facilities—while announcing ₹3 crore for Anandapur College and ₹20 crore for its stadium.
- In today’s meeting, ministers and officials also discussed broader infrastructure such as the Anandapur barrage and facility upgrades at Hadagarh Wildlife range.
Local Impact & Political Significance
Majhi’s visit underscores a dual approach: promoting industrial growth while strengthening social infrastructure. The mega steel plant is expected to transform the mineral-rich district, attract investment and generate jobs. Alongside, initiatives such as mobile ambulances and educational units signal an effort to bridge rural service gaps.
Local BJP leaders have welcomed the CM’s presence in his hometown, framing it as a symbolic homecoming and a chance to reinforce the party’s commitment in tribal-majority Keonjhar. Security arrangements have been stepped up district-wide to ensure smooth execution of all programs.
What’s Next?
On Day Two (August 4), the CM is expected to:
- Visit project sites in Anandapur and Barbil, including foundation stone ceremonies for bridges or irrigation works.
- Attend local educational institution anniversaries or public welfare events, potentially announcing new schemes aligned with the National Education Policy rollout.
- Review environmental and wildlife conservation plans at Hadagarh range or Jumna forest fringe zones.
- Depart from Raisuan Airstrip mid-afternoon back to Bhubaneswar.