Bhanj Sena Submits Memorandum Seeking Permanent Solutions to Mayurbhanj’s Basic Problems

Baripada: The Shamakhunta Block unit of Bhanj Sena submitted a memorandum to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha through the Block Development Officer (BDO), seeking immediate and long-term measures for the permanent resolution of basic problems in Mayurbhanj district, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, drinking water and employment opportunities for the younger generation. The memorandum was submitted under the leadership of Student Vice-President Rudra Pattnaik. Student organisers from the Shamakhunta Block area, including Hitik Nath, Debabrata Jena, Abinash Mahanta, Shiva Mahanta, Dr. Singh, Biju Singh and Kahnu Charan Singh, were present on the occasion. Mayurbhanj, known for its lush greenery, rich natural resources and glorious heritage, culture, art and traditions, is one of Odisha’s unique districts. The district has produced numerous talented artists, sportspersons, educationists and social workers who have contributed to the state. However, it is a matter of concern that even today, people in several parts of Mayurbhanj continue to struggle for basic facilities that are essential for a healthy, educated and developed society. These are not merely a list of problems; they are issues directly connected with the future of children, the aspirations of the youth and the overall development of the district. In this context, the memorandum urged the government to give special attention to the following issues: 1. Safe and Pure Drinking Water A comprehensive and long-term plan should be implemented to permanently address the problem of supplying safe and pure drinking water, from rural to urban areas of Mayurbhanj. The memorandum stressed that merely laying pipelines or establishing a water-supply system would not be sufficient. A sustainable mechanism should be developed, keeping in view water quality, regular supply, maintenance and future requirements. 2. Sustainable Improvement in Healthcare Services There is a need to strengthen and improve accessible healthcare services across both rural and urban areas of Mayurbhanj. The memorandum particularly sought further strengthening of PRM Medical College and Hospital, Baripada, by providing adequate manpower, specialist healthcare services, modern medical equipment, necessary infrastructure and improved emergency services. Steps should also be taken to find a permanent solution to healthcare-related problems across the district. The memorandum emphasised that patients from Mayurbhanj should not be compelled to travel outside the district merely to access advanced medical treatment. 3. Comprehensive Improvement of Education from Anganwadi to Higher Education Children and young people are the greatest assets of Mayurbhanj, and genuine development of the district cannot be achieved without strengthening their future. The memorandum called for a review and permanent resolution of educational and infrastructure-related problems in Anganwadi centres, primary and upper-primary schools, high schools, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs), Adarsha Vidyalayas, Eklavya Model Residential Schools, Ashram Schools for ST/SC and other reserved-category students, and SSD girls’ schools. Similarly, the infrastructure and other requirements of higher and professional education—from colleges to M.S.C.B. Medical College—should be strengthened. These include adequate teaching and faculty positions, modern laboratories, libraries, hostels and other essential educational facilities. 4. Reduction of School Dropouts and Complete Eradication of Child Labour The memorandum described it as a serious social concern when children who should have books and pens in their hands are instead burdened with labour. Therefore, strong and continuous measures should be taken to reduce the dropout rate in Mayurbhanj, bring children who have left school back into the education system and completely eradicate child labour. 5. Complete Eradication of Child Marriage The memorandum described the premature marriage of girls, which cuts short their childhood and dreams, as a serious social problem. It urged the government to undertake a coordinated campaign to completely stop child marriage, provide adolescent girls with opportunities for higher education and skill development, increase awareness among families and communities, and ensure strict enforcement of the law wherever necessary. Through this memorandum, we are not merely highlighting problems; we are approaching the government with hope. The people of Mayurbhanj want development. Our children want quality education. Our youth want opportunities in their own district. Our mothers want safe drinking water and better healthcare facilities. Our daughters want the right to fulfil their dreams. Our fundamental aspiration is that the young men and women of Mayurbhanj should have opportunities for dignified employment and a respectable life in their own homeland, without being forced to migrate to other states as migrant workers. Therefore, we sincerely request the Hon’ble Chief Minister to personally take these issues concerning Mayurbhanj into serious consideration. If necessary, a high-level review may be conducted, and a coordinated action plan involving the concerned departments may be prepared. Appropriate measures may then be implemented immediately as well as on a long-term basis. We believe that a sensitive intervention by the government can bring a new ray of hope into the lives of lakhs of people in Mayurbhanj. We remain hopeful that strong and effective steps will be taken towards securing a safe, prosperous and dignified future for the people of the district.