CM urges Jaishankar to visit the UAE embassy in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, June 29 (PTI) – Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday made a significant appeal to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, requesting the establishment of a UAE consulate in Odisha. This move is aimed at addressing the needs of the growing number of Odia expatriates working in Dubai.

The Chief Minister raised this important issue during a detailed meeting with Jaishankar at the latter’s residence in New Delhi. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo and Pravati Parida, highlighting the high-level nature of the discussion. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) later issued a statement providing details of the meeting.

Majhi emphasized the necessity of a UAE consulate in Odisha, stating that many people from the state are employed in Dubai. Establishing a consulate would provide essential services and support to these expatriates, making their lives abroad easier and more connected to their homeland.

During the meeting, Majhi also brought to Jaishankar’s attention the plight of eight people from Odisha who are currently stranded in Dubai. He sought the External Affairs Minister’s immediate assistance to ensure their safe return to India. Jaishankar responded positively, assuring the Chief Minister that he would take urgent steps to resolve the situation and facilitate the safe return of the stranded individuals.

In addition to the consulate issue, Majhi discussed various measures to boost tourism in Odisha. He proposed the setting up of an international tourism centre in the state, aiming to attract more foreign tourists and showcase Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Following his meeting with Jaishankar, Majhi met Union Health Minister JP Nadda to address healthcare infrastructure needs in Odisha. During this meeting, he urged Nadda to establish medical colleges in districts that currently lack such facilities. This move is expected to enhance medical education and healthcare services across the state.

Majhi also discussed the expansion of AIIMS-Bhubaneswar and proposed the establishment of a new AIIMS in Sambalpur. These initiatives are intended to improve healthcare accessibility and quality for the residents of Odisha.

Furthermore, the discussion with Nadda included the early implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana in Odisha. Majhi highlighted that this healthcare scheme would be highly beneficial for the poor and elderly population of the state, providing them with much-needed financial protection and access to quality healthcare services.

Overall, the meetings were productive and focused on key issues affecting the people of Odisha. The Chief Minister’s proactive approach in addressing these concerns with central government ministers underscores his commitment to the welfare and development of the state.