Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Saturday appealed to the central government for dedicated budget allocations and expedited clearances for several infrastructure projects within the state.
Addressing the 9th meeting of the NITI Aayog Governing Council in New Delhi, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi stated that with support from the Government of India, Odisha is poised to become a significant contributor to the development of a prosperous India.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the coming decade is pivotal, as 2036 will mark the centenary of Odisha’s statehood. He mentioned, “We have initiated a strategy to foster high growth to achieve the vision of a developed Odisha by 2036, which will contribute to a developed India by 2047.”
Majhi elaborated that a developed India by 2047 would harmonize economic growth with social welfare, sustainable development, technological progress, and the conservation of cultural heritage, all while ensuring a high quality of life for its citizens.
He expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister for the introduction of the Purvodaya scheme in the 2024-25 Union Budget, aimed at accelerating the progress of five eastern states, including Odisha.
To capitalize on Odisha’s extensive 480 km coastline, he proposed adopting a port-led development model, which would establish Odisha as a pivotal gateway to Eastern and South-Eastern Asia and a strategic port for neighbouring landlocked states.
The Chief Minister called for central support to set up expansive port-based industrial zones around the existing ports of Dhamra and Gopalpur and to advance the development of new ports at Astaranga, Palur, Bahuda, and Subarnarekha.
Majhi highlighted the need for dedicated budget allocations and expedited clearances from the Union Government for various infrastructure projects, including Industrial Parks, Corridors, Electricity Grids, Railway Infrastructure, and improved air connectivity.
He acknowledged that despite being susceptible to natural calamities, Odisha has become a leader in disaster management, showcasing exceptional resilience.
Lastly, the Chief Minister requested financial backing from the Central Government for establishing Disaster Resilient Infrastructure in the power and telecommunications sectors.
