Jamshedpur: Chief minister Raghubar Das on Sunday inaugurated the two-day Rankini Mahotsav at Moubhandar in Ghatshila, about 45km from here.

State tourism minister Amar Kumar Bauri and Ghatshila MLA Laxman Tudu were also present.

Addressing the gathering at Moubhandar Football Ground, the chief minister promised to wipe out Naxalism from the state by the end of this year. He also complimented the CRPF and district police for tackling the Naxals effectively. "It is because of their efficiency that the Naxalites have been cornered in Ghatshila, once considered a rebel hub," he said.

Das also promised power in every household by the end of 2018 besides emphasising on the initiatives taken by the state government to make women self-reliant. He unveiled welfare projects worth over Rs 94 crore apart from laying the foundation stone of a 15km road connecting Kashidah with Hurlung. The road will reduce the travel time between Jamshedpur and Ghatshila.

The festival is being organised to showcase the history of the popular Rankini Temple constructed by Raja Jagannath of the Dalbhum dynasty at Galudih. However, the temple had to be shifted to Ghatshila following some problems. The shrine, devoted to Goddess Kali, later gained popularity in the region as the temple of Rankini Mata.

The first day of the festival saw performances by Prince Dance Group from Odisha, Chhau dance, Paika, Jhumar and Firkal. Popular folk singer Malini Awasthi also entertained the audience.

State food and civil supplies minister Saryu Roy will be the chief guest at closing ceremony on Monday. Jamshedpur MP Bidyut Baran Mahto will also be present.