NEW DELHI – Commemorating the foundation day of the state of Odisha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Utkala Dibasa today, April 1, 2026.
In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister lauded Odisha as a “timeless symbol of cultural and spiritual greatness,” highlighting the state’s profound impact on India’s national identity.
Celebrating Odisha’s Cultural and Spiritual Legacy
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National Enrichment: PM Modi remarked that Odia music, art, and literature have enriched India in “countless ways,” serving as a pillar of the country’s heritage.
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Tribute to the People: He praised the citizens of Odisha for their characteristic “determination, simplicity, and warmth,” noting their significant contributions across various professional and social fields.
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Vision for the Future: The Prime Minister expressed his aspirations for the state’s continued growth, stating, “May Odisha keep scaling new heights of progress in the times to come.”
Historical Significance of Utkala Dibasa
Utkala Dibasa marks the formation of Odisha as a separate state on April 1, 1936, following a long-standing movement to unite Odia-speaking regions. It was the first state in India to be formed on a linguistic basis, predating independence.
Strategic Growth in 2026
The Prime Minister’s greetings come at a time when Odisha is emerging as a critical hub for industrial modernization, renewable energy, and maritime trade in Eastern India. The central government has recently emphasized the state’s role in the “Purvodaya” initiative, aimed at the rapid development of India’s eastern belt through enhanced infrastructure and mineral-based industries.
