Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, made a visit to a slum in Bhubaneswar, where he engaged with local residents and government officials. Accompanied by state government representatives, Gates toured the Biju Adarsh Colony situated in the Maa Mangla Basti. During his visit, he interacted with the slum dwellers, inquired about their well-being, and discussed various initiatives and programs implemented in the area.
The visit provided Gates with insights into the living conditions and the progress made in transforming the slum into a model colony. State Development Commissioner Anu Garg highlighted the infrastructural developments, including land rights, access to tap water, sanitation facilities, and electricity, which have significantly improved the residents’ quality of life. Gates expressed satisfaction with the positive changes observed in the slum area.
Additionally, Gates engaged with members of women’s self-help groups operating in the slum, discussing their contributions and experiences with various government welfare schemes. According to State Urban Development Secretary G Mathi Vathanan, Gates interacted with beneficiaries to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of these schemes on their lives.
Residents of the colony shared their experiences of interacting with Gates, mentioning his inquiries about their past living conditions and the improvements brought about by the government’s initiatives. Gates’ visit underscores the importance of engaging with grassroots communities and understanding their needs to drive meaningful change.
During his visit to Bhubaneswar, Gates is also scheduled to meet Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, further strengthening the partnership between the state government and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The collaboration between different government departments and the foundation reflects a shared commitment to addressing key societal challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Overall, Gates’ visit to the Bhubaneswar slum highlights the significance of community engagement and collaborative efforts in driving positive social impact and fostering inclusive development.
Sources By Agencies
