Odisha: Biju Patnaik's 101st birth anniversary observed

"He was above narrow political interests. His contribution to the society has made him popular even today," Naveen Patnaik said.

Bhubaneswar, March 5: The 101st birth anniversary of former Odisha chief minister Biju Patnaik was observed in the state on Sunday.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the son of Biju Patnaik, said his father was a man of the people.

"He was above narrow political interests. His contribution to the society has made him popular even today," Naveen Patnaik said.

The Chief Minister attacked the central government for stopping several schemes and ignoring the tribal and backward people in the state.

He said Odisha has made considerable development under his leadership since 2000 in infrastructure, job creation, attracting investment and women empowerment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to Biju Patnaik and said he had positively impacted many lives.

Earlier, the Chief Minister flagged off a mini marathon at the Biju Patnaik park in Bhubaneswar. Around 3,000 people took part in the event.

Biju Patnaik, born on March 5 in 1916, was a two-time Chief Minister of Odisha.

IANS