Odisha's Future: Major Developments Anticipated as PM Modi Focuses on State's Growth

Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi announced significant changes and development initiatives for the state in the next five years, following a meeting with PM Narendra Modi. Former CM Naveen Patnaik criticized the new budget, calling it a repetition of previous schemes.

After concluding his four-day visit to New Delhi, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi places special importance on the development of Odisha. Speaking to the media at the airport, Majhi said that significant changes are expected in the state over the next five years.

CM Majhi stated, 'I participated in the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting chaired by the Prime Minister and presented demands concerning important aspects of Odisha's development. We have significant responsibilities for the initial five years of the upcoming 12-year period leading up to 2036. Odisha is given priority in this initiative, led by Prime Minister Modi.'

He further added, 'The proposals I made at the NITI Aayog meeting will be implemented, resulting in significant changes in Odisha. Focus areas include developing 480 kilometers of coastline, port-based industries, tourism, the IT sector, and the upliftment of tribal communities.' Meanwhile, former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik criticized the new budget, labeling it as a 'Name Changer' for repeating 80% of previous schemes.

In a post on X, Patnaik said, 'Congratulations to the new government of Odisha on presenting its first budget and a special congratulation for repeating more than 80 per cent of the schemes implemented by our government. More than 80 per cent of your budget allocation flows towards the schemes formulated by the BJD Government.'

The Rs 2.65 lakh crore budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year was presented by Chief Minister Majhi, who also holds the finance portfolio. The budget exceeds the previous year's forecast by almost 15 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies.)