Bhubaneswar, May 28 (IANS): Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, here on Thursday, appealed Odias spread across the globe to sing "Bande Utkal Janani" at 5.30 p.m. on Saturday to encourage and show respect to the covid warriors.

"I request our 4.5 crore Odia brothers and sisters, irrespective of where you are staying, to sing 'Vande Utkal Janani' at 5.30 p.m. on May 30 by maintaining social distance," Patnaik said in a video message.

He said the objective behind it was to encourage and respect covid warriors' dedication and sacrifices.

"Vande Utkal Janani" was the opening song of Utkal Sammilani during the fight for the formation of a separate province. "In the time of Covid-19 crisis, the song will be of great help in strengthening our determination," Patnaik said.

He said Odisha had set an example not only in India but all over the world in saving lives from coronavirus. "The state's death rate is lowest in the world. Around 50 per cent of patients have recovered and returned to their homes," he said. It was an unprecedented achievement for Odias, he added.

Earlier, the Chief Minister spoke over phone to sarpanch, Asha and Anganwadi workers who turned Covid-19 positive while serving people. He praised their courage and dedication in providing outstanding service to society and wished their speedy recovery.