Dikhyaa Mohanty 
One of Odisha’s most well-known maritime celebrations began on Tuesday as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi opened the Kalinga Bali Yatra 2025 at Paradip in the Jagatsinghpur district.
Speaking during the inaugural event, the Chief Minister reiterated the State Government’s commitment to turning Paradip into a major center of economic development and cultural pride while describing the Bali Yatra as a symbol of the bravery and enterprise of Odia mariners.
Announcing a series of major developmental initiatives, Majhi declared that Paradip will be developed into a Green Hydrogen Hub as part of Odisha’s push toward clean and sustainable energy. He also said that the proposed new airport will soon be established in Paradip to boost connectivity, while a cruise terminal will be constructed on the Mangal River to promote tourism, with the State Government allocating Rs 500 crore for the project.
“Paradip will soon be connected not only by sea and land but also by air. It is emerging as the gateway to Odisha’s industrial and economic progress,” the Chief Minister said.
Majhi went on to say that Paradip has already established itself as a major port in Eastern India and would remain a center for employment, commerce, and industry. He said that the State Government intends to build a Greenfield Airport, an industrial corridor connecting Bhubaneswar, Khordha, Cuttack, and Puri, and enhance the region’s tourism infrastructure.
