The Business Bytes
BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 27, 2024 (TBB BUREAU): As the Lok Sabha elections draw near, the electorate of Sambalpur finds itself at a crossroads, evaluating a blend of local loyalty, a candidate’s proven track record, and a vision for regional advancement intertwined with influential national connections. Recent surveys indicate Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as the frontrunner, buoyed by his substantial achievements during his tenure in the Union Cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Hailing from Talcher, Dharmendra’s grassroots engagement traces back to his activism with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) since 1983. His political trajectory gained momentum with his election as an MLA from Pallahada in the year 2000, earning him acclaim as an exemplary legislator. Subsequently, his tenure representing Deogarh in the Lok Sabha in 2004 further solidified his rapport with the electorate.
Since 2014, Dharmendra Pradhan has assumed significant responsibilities within the NDA government, garnering widespread praise for his efficiency and effectiveness as a minister. Despite representing other states in the Rajya Sabha, his noteworthy contributions to Sambalpur have not gone unnoticed, as acknowledged by experts in parliamentary affairs. Under his stewardship, Sambalpur has experienced a surge in developmental initiatives, exceeding past records of central grants and catalyzing progress across various sectors.
Moreover, over the past decade of Modi’s governance, concerted efforts have been made to nurture art, culture, and heritage in Western Odisha. Thirteen individuals have been honored with the Padma Awards, while UGC courses and research centres have been established in universities to promote Santha Bhim Bhoi and Mahima Dharma. Other notable initiatives encompass the revitalization of the Mahanadi riverfront, the metamorphosis of Sambalpur station into a global hub, plans for a Sambalpur-Jharsuguda metro, and the elevation of local handicrafts and culture on an international platform.
During the Modi administration’s tenure, the region has witnessed a transformative wave, marked by the establishment of pivotal institutions such as the permanent campus of IIM (Indian Institute of Management), endeavours like the Skill India Centre for youth empowerment, and infrastructure enhancements like the Vir Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda. The government’s dedication to holistic development shines through its emphasis on fostering local arts, culture, and heritage.
While Dharmendra’s opponent may highlight coastal affiliations, their limited impact in the western Odisha and lack of experience in central governance present a significant hurdle. Similarly, organisational deficiencies and delayed candidate announcements from the Congress party place them at a disadvantage in the electoral fray.
Given these dynamics, BJP’s Dharmendra Pradhan emerges as the most favored candidate in the Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituency, poised to further his transformative journey and propel the region towards enhanced prosperity and development.
