Development is govt's priority:Naveen Patnaik

Bhubanewwar, Jan 26 (UNI) Orissa Governor Muralidhar Chandrakant Bhandare unfurled the Tricolour and took the guard of honour while celebrating the 59th Republic Day here today.

Security personnel from the State Armed Police, Central Industrial Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Railway Protection Force, Home Guard, Fire Service and students from various schools and colleges participated in the state-level parade.

Unfurling the national flag at the Barabati stadium in Cuttack, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said his government was committed towards all round development of the state.

He also stated that his government has given priority to the development of agriculture, tourism, roads, railways, ports, education and health sector during the last eight-year-rule.

He said his government had declared 2008 as the '' Year of Irrigation'' and announced to bring 35 per cent of total land in every block under irrigation.

Mr Patnaik said his government had already announced a package for the development of handloom and handicraft.

The day was also observed at Orissa High Court in Cuttack and by various public and private establishments.

Elaborate security arrangement was made to make the day peaceful.

UNI BD PP SP AS1438