Union Education Minister launches projects worth Rs 215 crore at NIT Rourkela

Rourkela: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched several development projects worth ₹215 crore in Rourkela, Odisha, on Saturday.

Pradhan, who was on a two-day visit, launched these projects at a function at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela. He inaugurated a newly constructed indoor sports complex on the NIT campus, built at a cost of ₹35 crore. The complex includes a multipurpose hall with badminton courts, an open-air theater, and other facilities.

The Union Minister laid the foundation stone for the construction of a new building for the Civil Engineering Department, a 500-bed hostel (₹55.35 crore), and a guest house (₹33.51 crore) at a cost of ₹91.18 crore.

Speaking on the occasion, Pradhan said that this indoor sports complex, dedicated to the public, will help students reach new heights not only in sports but also in creative and cultural fields. The new facilities and opportunities created by the foundation stone will benefit students, further enhancing NIT Rourkela’s image.

Recalling his days as a foot soldier of the party in Rourkela, he said, “Rourkela is very different then and now. And the city’s growth is directly linked to the state’s growth; both are interconnected.”

He said that Rourkela is not just a city, but a symbol of India’s industrial and educational strength. He further stated that as Odisha approaches its centenary in 2036 and the country moves towards its centenary of independence in 2047, institutions like NIT Rourkela will play a crucial role in inclusive development and advancing the nation’s growth. Praising NIT Rourkela’s growth, he urged the entire team of the institute to continue growing rapidly.

Pradhan urged students to create jobs instead of looking for them. During his speech, he talked about a startup that received an order worth ₹100 crore for underwater drones.

The Education Minister said, “Stories like these are truly a reason to feel proud. Instead of being a job seeker, become a job creator.”

He further said, “With its vibrant alumni community across the world, I am confident that the Institute (NIT Rourkela) will play a key role in shaping India’s economic and industrial future.”