External forces trying to influence youth; only PM Modi can solve their problems: Odisha CM on Independence Day

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday (August 15, 2026) advised youths to focus on their career, instead of being influenced by “external forces” that do not want to see India as a strong nation, while asserting that only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can solve their problems.

Addressing a State-level event here marking the 80th Independence Day, the Chief Minister made five major announcements, including removing the maximum limit of six chances for the State civil service exam. Aspirants can now appear in the exam till they reach the upper age limit.

He also announced compassionate recruitment following the death of government employees, creating three lakh employment opportunities in the next two to three years, which will be extended to 20 lakh in the next five years.

“Some external forces have been trying to mislead the youth of the country because they do not want to see India as a strong nation,” the Chief Minister said.

He said the “external forces” are well aware that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not bow down before them and will not compromise on the interests of the country. “Therefore, they are targeting the youth.” Describing the youth as the main “force” towards fulfilling the goal of building a developed India, Mr. Majhi asserted that only PM Modi can solve whatever problems India’s youth have.

“Therefore, you should not be influenced by anyone and focus on your own career; this should be your priority,” he said.

On the occasion, Mr. Majhi announced that the students of classes 9 and 10 in State-run schools will be provided free textbooks, as is done for the students up to class 8.

Asserting that education was one of the focus areas of his government, the chief minister said ‘Godavarish Mishra Model Primary School’ is going to play an important role in providing opportunities for quality learning.

As many as 2,200 such model primary schools will be built in the first phase, he said, adding that 26,000 teachers have been appointed in the past two years and the process to appoint 45,000 more teachers was underway.

Mr. Majhi announced that for the first time, mid-day meals have been arranged for students of Classes 9 and 10. “To give a boost to higher education opportunities in the state, 18 government colleges and four universities would be set up in the sub-districts,” he told the gathering.

He described farmers as the “breadwinners” for the State and said Odisha’s economy cannot be strengthened unless their income increases..

He said farmers’ income has increased significantly through different programmes. “Our government is committed to doing everything possible to increase their income further.”

“I would like to make it clear to our farmers that Agri-Stack registration has nothing to do with P-Pass registration for paddy purchase. Farmers need not worry about problems in paddy sale. Like every year, this year too, P-Pass registration will be done, and the paddy procurement will be run on that basis,” Mr. Majhi said.