The Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that his government resolved to firmly tackle any attempts by Maoists to derail development.
Unfurling the tricolour at Mahatma Gandhi Road here amid tight security, Mr. Patnaik asserted that the red rebels will not be allowed to succeed in their bid to derail the process of development.
Despite Maoist scare in some parts, Independence Day was celebrated across the State with enthusiasm.
Mr. Patnaik said the government was making constant endeavour to ensure economic and social development and bring peace in Maoist-affected areas.
Stating that the economic growth achieved by Orissa was higher than the national rate, he said the State has set a target of nine per cent growth this year.
Mr. Patnaik said the rural segment must be developed side by side industrial growth which is essential for providing jobs to local people and spur overall progress.
Highlighting measures taken by the government for welfare of tribals, dalits and the economically weaker sections, he said it has been decided to provide 50 per cent reservation to women in panchayati raj bodies to empower them.
Elaborate security arrangements were made for Independence day celebrations in Naxal-affected areas in view of a call given by Maoists to observe the occasion as ’black day’ and boycott all functions.
Patrolling was intensified in Maoist-affected districts Malkangiri, Koraput, Gajapati, Rayagada, Kandhamal, Sundargarh and Keonjhar.
Swine flu scare, however, seemed to dampen the celebrations with schools and educational institutions avoiding mass gathering and holding only flag hoisting ceremonies following government’s appeal.
