President Murmu’s Odisha Homecoming: Naveen Patnaik Highlights State’s Role in National Progress
Bhubaneswar, November 27, 2025. In a historic session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik extended a heartfelt welcome to President Droupadi Murmu, calling her address a proud “homecoming” for the state.
Patnaik reflected on Murmu’s journey from her early political career in the Odisha Assembly 25 years ago to her current role as the President of India. “We are all proud that a daughter of this soil is today the President of the nation,” he said, underscoring the significance of her presence amid India’s contemporary challenges.
Highlighting India’s strength in “unity in diversity,” Patnaik credited the nation’s diverse languages, customs, and cultures for strengthening democracy.
He recalled Odisha’s pioneering role in post‑Independence integration, noting that Nilagiri and other princely states acceded to India on November 14, 1947, setting an example for national consolidation.
Patnaik paid homage to Utkal Gouraba Madhusudan Das, who spearheaded the creation of Odisha as a separate province based on language—the first such instance in India achieved through constitutional means.
The Leader of Opposition praised Odisha’s progress over the past two decades in disaster management, food production, women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, infrastructure, health, education, and industrial growth.
He described Odisha’s disaster management model as a benchmark nationally and internationally.
Expressing confidence in Odisha’s rich natural resources and skilled workforce, Patnaik said the state is poised for greater achievements.
On behalf of opposition parties, he welcomed President Murmu and anticipated her inspirational address.
The event was attended by the Governor, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chief Minister, ministers, MLAs, distinguished invitees, and media representatives, underscoring Odisha’s enduring contributions to India’s democratic fabric.
