Pulse of Progress: Kandhamal's New Medical College and More

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated a state-of-the-art medical college and 650-bed hospital at Tilakpada near Phulbani in Kandhamal district on Saturday, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the local population. The Rs 600-crore facility includes a 100-seat medical college and upgrades the existing district headquarters hospital from 420 to 650 beds. Admissions are expected to begin this year, pending approval from the National Medical Commission.

Underscoring the state's commitment to healthcare, the CM highlighted that the sector has received Rs 23,635 crore — 8.2% of the state budget, the highest allocation to date.

During his visit, Majhi also inaugurated five development projects worth Rs 655 crore and laid foundation stones for five others totaling Rs 94 crore in Kandhamal. These projects span key areas including education, water supply, tourism, and infrastructure.

Tourism development plans include Rs 18 crore for Daringbadi and Rs 4.5 crore for the Putudi waterfall.

Later in Subarnapur, the CM launched 56 projects worth Rs 323 crore — comprising 11 completed projects (Rs 80 crore) and 45 new ones (Rs 244 crore). He also announced plans for four riverbed reservoirs on the Mahanadi to enhance irrigation and regional development.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.