Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik today started the election campaign for the upcoming twin polls in the state from Hinjili in Ganjam district, his home turf.
Addressing a gathering, Patnaik criticized the Opposition parties for ‘opposing’ developmental works in the state. He also mentioned about the flagship developmental projects of the BJD government and vowed to make Odisha the number one state of the country by 2036.
“Development is our identity. However, it is sad to see that Opposition parties are opposing it. Be it Srimandir Parikrama project or Ekamra project or Samalei project, the Opposition parties have been politicizing everything. The people of Odisha know their true nature. No one has become successful by opposing development,” the BJD supremo said.
Speaking about the transformational initiatives of the government, Patnaik said, “Around 70 lakh women have become the drivers of transformation in the state. Farmers are getting loan at zero per cent interest in the state. Likewise, Misson Shakti members have so far received Rs 18,000 crore interest-free loan. This is a milestone in development of Odisha. The BJD is number one in giving women their rights.”
The CM also said that Odisha has pioneered in many fields. “Odisha is a leading state in women empowerment, disaster management, PDS, and investment. The Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojna (BSKY) is unique in the country while special budget for farmers is first of its kind in the nation,” he said.
He further said that the government will introduce youth budget in coming days. “The decade 2024-34 will be golden opportunity for youths. The youth budget will emphasize on industrial investment and skill development. 2024-34 will be the decade of Odisha. In the year 2036, Odisha will complete 100 years of its formation. By 2036, Odisha will become the number one state,” said Patnaik.
“With the blessing of people of Odisha, the BJD will continue its victory streak,” he concluded.