Appealing the people of Odisha to be aware of their responsibilities along with their rights under democratic set up, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today said development of rural and urban areas is essential to achieve an inclusive growth.
"Development of poor, youth, women, Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled castes, student and differently-abled persons are required for an inclusive growth," said Patnaik after unfurling the National Flag here at the state level parade.
Stating that Odisha has around 50,000 villages and 100 towns where development work is important, Patnaik said improvement in infrastructure in rural areas will give a boost to agriculture and allied sectors.
The Chief Minister, who refrained from speaking on the achievements of his government in view of the model code of conduct implemented for the ensuing urban polls, said "Independence is all about responsibility and commitment. Our goal should be to make India stronger and Odisha prosperous."
Recalling contribution of Odia martyrs in the freedom struggle, the Chief Minister said the first voice of revolt against the British Raj was raised from the soil of Odisha in 1817. "The British Rule could not be established in Odisha till 1803," he lamented.
While the Independence Day celebrations in Odisha's major towns and cities were observed amidst tight security, the red rebels took liberty to unfurl Black Flags in certain left wing extremist (LEW) infested districts including Malkangiri.
The rebels reportedly unfurled black flags at Pansaput village under Chitrakonda black of Malkangiri while Maoist ultras hoisted black flag near a college at Kalimela town in the district. "The police immediately removed the black flag hoisted at Kalimela," a senior police officer said.
Similarly, reports of black flag being flown in other districts were also received, sources said, adding that the Maoists had given a call to boycott Independence Day celebration in the state.
Adequate security arrangements have been made in all the sensitive and border districts besides major towns, said Director General of Police Prakash Mishra.
