PURI: "We must liberate ourselves from the mentality of servitude," remarked Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister. Speaking in Puri, she emphasized that India's journey towards development requires a departure from the 'enslavement' mindset implanted by British colonial rulers.

Sitharaman, joined by fellow Union Cabinet member Dharmendra Pradhan and BJP's national spokesperson Sambit Patra, participated in a tree-planting initiative and took the 'Panch Pran Pledge' as part of the 'Meri Maati, Mera Desh' program.

During the event, the Finance Minister articulated, "Breaking free from the mental chains of subjugation established by British colonialists is imperative. Only then can India achieve developed status by 2047."

Concurrent with their visit, acclaimed global sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik unveiled his latest masterpiece, echoing the theme of 'Meri Maati Mera Desh.' This mesmerizing creation graced the shores of the Blue Flag Beach in Mayfair, Puri.

Sitharaman, accompanied by Union Minister Pradhan and Sambit Patra, toured the sand sculpture inspired by the 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' concept, ingeniously crafted by Patnaik at Odisha's Puri Blue Flag Beach.

Additionally, Sitharaman and central Cabinet member Dharmendra Pradhan sought blessings at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The BJP's national spokesperson, Sambit Patra, accompanied them on this visit to the revered shrine.

As per an official statement, the Union Ministers had a series of significant engagements scheduled in Puri on Thursday. They were slated to undertake a spiritual journey to the revered Shree Mandira, paying homage to centuries-old traditions. Furthermore, the ministers intended to commemorate the legacy of freedom by visiting the birthplace of the illustrious Saheed Jayee Rajguru and embarking on a symbolic Amrit Kalash Yatra at Biraharekrushnapur, Puri.

This eventful day aimed to underscore the importance of preserving Odisha's heritage, fostering a connection with the nation, and nurturing a strong sense of environmental and national responsibility.

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