Philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, experienced a fulfilling day in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, where he engaged in various activities showcasing the region's progress and innovation.
Gates, arrived in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday night, attended several programmes throughout the day, including one with a focus on the use of artificial intelligence for farmers at Krushi Bhawan.
Gates, known for his global humanitarian efforts, was particularly impressed by initiatives promoting women's empowerment and community development spearheaded by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
From his India visit, Gates shared a captivating video capturing his immersion in Indian culture. The video depicts a delightful 'Chai Pe Charcha' (discussion over tea) with social media sensation Dolly Chaiwala. The clip, which immediately went viral, begins with "One Chai Please" and captures Gates' experience of sipping tea innovatively prepared by Dolly Chaiwala.
During his visit to the Mission Shakti Bazaar, Gates indulged in a cup of coffee sourced from Koraput, which has gained popularity both domestically and internationally. He commended Chief Minister Patnaik for his visionary steps towards empowering women through initiatives like the Mission Shakti Bazaar.
In addition to appreciating local initiatives, Gates held extensive discussions with Chief Minister Patnaik on a range of issues, emphasizing collaboration on various fronts including healthcare, education, and technology.
The highlight of Gates' visit was his recognition with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2023, presented by Dr. Achyut Samanta, founder of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS). This award underscores Gates' unparalleled contributions to global health, education, and environmental sustainability through innovative technological solutions aimed at reducing inequality.
Expressing his gratitude, Gates remarked, "Thank you so much for this wonderful award, and for welcoming me here. Though I should be the one congratulating you on all you have accomplished." He praised Dr. Samanta's commitment to providing quality education to indigenous communities, emphasizing the significance of community engagement in education.
Anu Garg, State Development Commissioner, highlighted the positive impact of Odisha's developmental schemes on the lives of its residents during Gates' interaction with slum dwellers. Gates showed keen interest in understanding the transformation brought about by these initiatives, reflecting his commitment to grassroots development.
Gates' visit also highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and various state government departments, reaffirming the importance of partnerships in addressing pressing global challenges.
Bill Gates' visit to Bhubaneswar not only celebrated local achievements but also reinforced the significance of international collaboration in advancing humanitarian causes and promoting sustainable development.
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