By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Thursday addressed the Budget Session of State Legislative Assembly and highlighted CM Mohan Charan Majhi Government’s achievements.
The people of Odisha, with hope in their hearts and a vision for the future, opted for change over continuity in the 2024 General Election. Tired of waiting for a transformation that never seemed to come, they embraced the promise of my Government that they would listen, understand, and act. Their vote was not just a political decision – it was a declaration of faith, the Governor said. With the mandate of the people and a determined vision for the future, the new Government shouldered the onerous responsibility of taking the state forward in the path of prosperity, he added.
The year 2024 has been a landmark year for Odisha, marked by transformative strides in governance, development, and global recognition. The Government has also taken vigorous and successful steps to promote growth and create employment for the citizens, the Governor said.
Despite its glorious past as a thriving centre of overseas trade, rich mineral reserves, and abundant human resources, for many years post-independence, Odisha struggled to fulfil its immense potential, he pointed out.
The State Government with funding from Centre would develop Hirakud reservoir area, Satkosia tiger reserve as world class tourist destinations, said.
the Governor said, “I am pleased to inform you that my Government has successfully secured approval from the Government of India for development of the Hirakud and Satkosia projects.” Under Part-III of the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2024-25, Odisha will receive a 50-year interest-free Special Assistance of Rs 200 crore, he said. This significant support will propel the transformation of these two iconic tourist destinations, elevating them to a global standard, he said.
Dr.Kambhampati said his Government has been making sincere efforts to promote Shree Jagannath culture by establishing a Corpus Fund of Rs 500 crore.
To facilitate ease of entry into the premises of Shree Mandir, all four sacred Temple Gates have been opened. Honouring the faith and sentiment of devotees, the sealed chamber of inner Ratna Bhandar has also been opened with the help of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The State Government has also taken steps to renovate the Ratna Bhandar, he said.
“Reviving Odia Asmita, conservation, protection and advancement of the State’s art, architecture, language, literature and culture as well as legacy are my Government’s top priorities,” he said, adding, the Government has also decided to create an initial Corpus Fund of Rs 200 crore for Odia Asmita to undertake specific interventions.
Major Announcements & Policy Highlights
Subhadra Yojana: Over 1 crore women have benefitted from this initiative.
Farmers’ Welfare: The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy has been increased by ₹800 to ₹3,100 per quintal.
Odisha’s Identity & Cultural Promotion: The government is committed to preserving and promoting the Odia heritage.
Development Roadmap: The state is aligning with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, aiming for a ‘Bikasita Odisha by 2036’.
Employment, Education & Economic Growth
New Education Policy: Odisha seeks to solidify its place in India’s development landscape.
Utkarsh Odisha Initiative: The state successfully hosted the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, gathering over 3 lakh suggestions for Vision 2036.
Job Creation: Plans to generate 1.5 lakh government jobs over five years, with 65,000 recruitments in the next two years.
Weaving Industry: Expected to create 50,000 jobs within two years.
Kamadhenu Scheme: Focus on agricultural investments and nutritional aid for 46 lakh women and children.
Investment Boost: ₹12.89 lakh crore MoUs were signed during the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave.
Infrastructure & Public Welfare
Water & Electricity: Odisha aims for regular piped water supply across 115 cities and 24/7 electricity coverage by 2026.
Transport Connectivity: Plans for comprehensive rail links to all districts.
Housing Development: Ongoing support for the PM Awas Yojana.
