Odisha CM Majhi Inaugurates Cuttack Bali Yatra 2025, Announces Rs 10 Crore Boost & Maritime Vision
Cuttack, Odisha — In a vibrant celebration of heritage and commerce, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the historic Cuttack Bali Yatra 2025 along the banks of the Mahanadi River.
he centuries-old maritime fair, hailed as Eastern India’s largest cultural and commercial festival, drew thousands of visitors and nearly 2,000 vendors.
Majhi announced a significant increase in state funding—from Rs 2 crore to Rs 10 crore—to support the event’s growing scale and cultural importance. “Bali Yatra is a beautiful chapter in Odisha’s glorious history,” he said, emphasising the government’s commitment to preserving tradition while accelerating development.
The CM unveiled ambitious plans to transform Cuttack into a “Starry Sky” tourism destination, backed by Rs 200 crore under the Mahanadi River Front Development Scheme.
The state is also pursuing UNESCO World Heritage status for Bali Yatra and upgrading heritage sites like Barabati Fort, Gadakhai, Dhabaleswar Peeth, and Nandikishor Peeth.
Majhi outlined Odisha’s maritime ambitions, including 14 new minor ports and a Rs 24,700 crore shipbuilding facility near Paradip. “Odisha will become the Gateway of Eastern India through maritime trade,” he declared.
Indonesia was honoured as the guest country, with Ambassador Iina Hagniningtyas Krisnamurthi receiving a ceremonial model boat. Cultural performances, student awards, and literature promotions added to the festive spirit.
The event echoed Prime Minister Modi’s “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” mantra, blending economic upliftment with cultural pride. Leaders across the spectrum praised Bali Yatra as a symbol of unity, legacy, and opportunity.
