Naveen Patnaik hails President Droupadi Murmu as Odisha’s “Daughter of the Soil” during her historic address to the state Assembly, highlighting her inspirational journey, Odisha’s development strides, and the state’s proud role in shaping India’s constitutional and national identity.
From the Odisha Assembly to Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu’s journey continues to inspire millions, former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik said on Thursday, describing her as a “Daughter of the Soil” who has brought unparalleled pride to the state.
Speaking in the Odisha Legislative Assembly after President Murmu delivered her historic address, Patnaik said that it was a moment of immense honour for every citizen of Odisha to witness a leader who began her political journey in the state Assembly now holding the highest constitutional office in the nation.
“We are all proud that the daughter of this land is the President of the country. It is even more a matter of pride that she started her political career in this Odisha Legislative Assembly twenty-five years ago, and today she has increased the glory of this land by becoming the President of the country. Unity in diversity is the beauty of our nation,” Patnaik said.
The Leader of the Opposition noted that President Murmu’s presence in the Assembly was symbolic not just of Odisha’s progress but also of India’s democratic strength, where leadership can emerge from any corner of the nation. He emphasised that the President, hailing from Odisha, addressing the Assembly was a moment deeply etched in the collective memory of the state.
Patnaik further stated that the entire country looks to President Murmu for inspiration in preserving the nation’s constitutional ethos and democratic values. He described her rise—from a humble beginning in a tribal-dominated district to the Rashtrapati Bhavan—as a powerful narrative of perseverance, service, and unwavering commitment to the people.
Highlighting Odisha’s achievements in recent decades, Patnaik explained that the state had “scripted history in myriad fields,” transforming itself into a model for governance and development. He said Odisha’s progress in disaster management, food production, women’s empowerment, poverty reduction, healthcare, education, and industrial growth had made it an “inspiring story” for the entire country.
Patnaik credited the people of Odisha for their continuous support, which he said enabled “phenomenal growth” and laid a strong foundation for future development. He also noted that Odisha’s disaster management policy has become a national benchmark, with international recognition for its efficiency and zero-casualty approach during cyclones.
“Odisha, with its rich natural resources and skilled workforce, has great potential for growth. We should all strive to ensure Odisha scales new heights of glory,” he said.
Reflecting on Odisha’s historical role in nation-building, Patnaik highlighted the accession of princely states after independence, mentioning that Nilagiri was the first princely state in India to join the Union on November 14, 1947. This, he said, showcased Odisha’s leadership in uniting and consolidating Indian nationhood during a crucial period.
He also praised the contribution of legendary leader Madhusudan Das, who played a key role in the formation of Odisha as the first state created on a linguistic basis. Patnaik said that Das, along with other national leaders, achieved this through constitutional methods, reinforcing the democratic values that continue to guide the nation.
“As the President of this great country, you ‘preserve, protect and defend’ the Constitution of India, the 75th anniversary of which we recently celebrated. The entire country looks upon you, President Madam, for inspiration in preserving the very soul of India,” Patnaik said, concluding his address.
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President Murmu’s visit and speech at the Odisha Assembly marked an emotionally significant moment for the state, reinforcing both its historical legacy and its modern aspirations. For many, her journey from the Assembly floor to the highest constitutional office stands as a testament to Odisha’s deep democratic roots and rising national presence.
