Bhubaneswar, July 13,2025 – The 16th edition of the nationwide Rozgar Mela brought joy and hope to thousands of young Indians today. Over 51,000 appointment letters were distributed across 47 locations. At the heart of this mega drive stood Bhubaneswar, where Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan personally handed over 204 appointment letters at a vibrant event held at the Rail Auditorium.
A Vision for Youth Empowerment
The Rozgar Mela, launched in 2022 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, has already created more than 10 lakh jobs in central government departments. Speaking at the event, Shri Pradhan reiterated the government’s firm commitment to employment generation and youth development.
He praised Odisha’s efforts in mirroring the Central initiative through its Nijukti Melas, which have created 25,000–30,000 jobs in just one year. According to Shri Pradhan, the youth are central to India’s economic engine—and Rozgar Melas ensure their rightful place in building the nation’s future.
Shri Pradhan emphasized that India is now the world’s fourth-largest economy, having surpassed Japan. He celebrated India’s demographic dividend, noting that with an average age of 25, India will enjoy a youthful population for decades to come.
“Government jobs are a cherished dream for our youth,” he said, “and the Rozgar Mela fulfills this aspiration with dignity and transparency.”
Startups, Digital Push, and Self-Reliance
The Minister spoke passionately about India’s booming startup ecosystem, which has seen exponential growth in the last ten years. He cited this as proof of India’s changing employment landscape—where innovation meets opportunity.
He also highlighted India’s global leadership in digital adoption. From UPI to AI, the country has become a frontrunner in embracing future technologies. “Tools like ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence are not threats; they are opportunities,” he urged the youth.
India’s Resilience Post-COVID
Shri Pradhan reminded the gathering of India’s strength during the COVID-19 crisis. While many nations struggled, India not only managed the crisis at home but also helped the world with vaccines and medicines.
He pointed out how far India has come—from depending on food imports under PL-480 to now distributing 5 kg of free grains monthly to nearly 65% of the population through the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.
A Call to Action for New Appointees
Urging the newly appointed youth to remain humble and hardworking, Shri Pradhan said, “This appointment is not the destination, but the beginning of your contribution to nation-building.” He advised them to upgrade their skills, stay curious, and adopt technology to remain relevant in a fast-evolving world.
Dignitaries Celebrate the Milestone
The Bhubaneswar Rozgar Mela witnessed a strong turnout of government leaders and officers. Among the distinguished guests were:
- Shri Parameshwar Funkwal, General Manager, East Coast Railway
- Shri L.V.S.S. Patrudu, Principal Chief Personnel Officer, East Coast Railway
- Prof. Dr. Ashutosh Biswas, Executive Director, AIIMS Bhubaneswar
- Shri Nirmaljit Singh, Chief Postmaster General, Odisha Circle
- Shri Prakash Chandra Nayak, Commissioner, GST, Central Excise & Customs
- Shri Pradeep Kumar Ray, Registrar, IISER Berhampur
- Shri Goutam Patra, Chief Manager & Convenor, SLBC, Odisha
- Shri Nagesh Kumar, Deputy Commandant, CRPF
- Dr. Sanghamitra Pati, ADG, ICMR & Director, RMRC Bhubaneswar
The presence of these dignitaries showcased the government’s unified support for youth employment and the role of collaboration between institutions.
The Bigger Picture: India on the Move
Rozgar Melas are more than recruitment events. They represent India’s promise to its youth—jobs, dignity, and a brighter tomorrow. They showcase the synergy between national vision and local execution.
With each letter handed out, the government reinforces its message: No talent will go unrecognized. No aspiration will go unsupported. India’s path to becoming a global powerhouse begins with empowering its youth.