Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today announced that Puri will be developed as a world-class religious city.

Highlighting Puri’s significance beyond being a religious site, the Chief Minister stated that the government is committed to developing it as a world-class religious city, with its upgrade to a municipal corporation as the first step.

Meeting elderly women devotees of Kartik Habishyali at Vrindavati Nivas, Majhi described their devotion as the moral strength of Odisha and a living symbol of Odia culture and identity.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the month of Kartik holds special significance in Odia culture, being associated with self-restraint, compassion, and devotion.

He noted that Odia mothers have observed Habish for centuries, reflecting the state’s moral and cultural strength.

Majhi also announced that from next year, a dedicated digital registration system will be launched for Habishyali women, providing access to medical and emergency services.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that the devotion and prayers of Habishyali mothers will bless Odisha and guide society towards peace and progress.

He added that this year, approximately 2,500 Habishyali devotees have been accommodated by the government at five designated locations, with an expenditure of around Rs. 3.30 crore.

Urging everyone to follow the teachings of Jagannath Dharma, Majhi paid respects to the Habishyali devotees, took photographs with them, and discussed their convenience and needs.

The event was attended by Puri MP Dr. Sambit Patra, Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhuti Prasad Tarai, Puri Sadar MLA Sunil Kumar Mahanti, Brahmagiri MLA Upasana Mahapatra, Satyabadi MLA Om Prakash Mishra, Pipili MLA Ashrit Pattnayak, and District Collector Divyajyoti Parida, among others.