Bhubaneswar, April 1 -- Celebrating Odisha Day 2026 at the birthplace of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das in Suando village, Puri district, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reaffirmed the state government's commitment to preserving and promoting the Odia identity.

"The rise of a nation depends on its identity. Without it, a nation is like a soulless machine," he said.

Majhi announced initiatives to honor the legacy of Gopabandhu Das, including the development and beautification of his birthplace. Projects worth Rs. 585 crore have been planned, with Rs. 495 crore allocated for Satyabadi to construct a heritage corridor and Rs. 90 crore for the redevelopment of the Bakulaban community.

Plans are also underway for the overall development of...