Odisha’s Ex-CM Naveen Patnaik Honours Mother Teresa, Urges Selfless Service to Poor

Bhubaneswar, September 6, 2025: Odisha’s former Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, called on people to work selflessly for the poor, as he paid tribute to Mother Teresa of Calcutta on September 5.

“Humble tributes to Bharat Ratna awardee #MotherTeresa on her death anniversary, observed as #InternationalDayOfCharity,” he said in a social media post.

“On this occasion, let us all pledge to selflessly work towards the upliftment of the needy, poor, and vulnerable to build an inclusive society,” he added.

Patnaik served as Chief Minister of Odisha from 2000 to 2024, holding office for over 24 years.

In December 2021, the Home Ministry temporarily denied the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licence held by the Missionaries of Charity (M.C.), but it was subsequently renewed by the Government of India in January 2022, allowing the congregation to continue receiving foreign donations to fund its charitable work for the poor and destitute.

During the brief suspension period, Patnaik directed district collectors in Odisha to extend financial support to all Missionaries of Charity-run centres and institutions.

During his tenure, he also named a road in Bhubaneswar “Mother Teresa Road” in honour of the saint.

By Catholic Connect Reporter