Bhubaneswar, Aug. 9 -- Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Sujata Rout Karthikeyan on Sunday highlighted the party's long-standing commitment to tribal empowerment and heritage, stating that the initiatives taken under Naveen Patnaik's 24-year governance have become a "model for the entire country."

Reflecting on the BJD's legacy, she noted that the initiatives taken under Patnaik's leadership have set a benchmark that other states are now following.

"Under the leadership of Naveen Patnaik, the BJD government initiated many programs that serve as a model for the country. A unique step was the setting up of Special Development Councils (SDCs) in 23 districts for the preservation and promotion of tribal history, culture, and traditional knowledg...