Odisha Budget 2024: A Blueprint for Viksit Odisha-2036 Unveiled by CM Majhi
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi presented the state budget on Friday, declaring it a pivotal step toward fulfilling the dreams, hopes, and aspirations of all sections of society in Odisha. He emphasized that this financial plan is designed to accelerate the state's progress on a robust development trajectory, marking the beginning of a grand journey toward achieving a Viksit Odisha by 2036.
Key Initiatives for Social and Economic Empowerment
In a significant move to empower girls from economically weaker families, the budget introduces the Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangal Yojana. Under this scheme, a savings instrument of Rs 20,000 will be created in the name of each girl born to such families. Upon successfully completing graduation, each beneficiary will receive a substantial amount of Rs 1,00,001, aimed at supporting their higher education and future endeavors.
Substantial Allocation for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare
Reflecting the government's commitment to addressing farmers' needs, the budget allocates a total of Rs 42,492 crore for agriculture and allied sectors. This represents a notable increase of 12.3% from the previous year's allocation. Key components include:
- Samruddha Krushak Yojana: An allocation of Rs 6,088 crore to ensure smooth paddy procurement processes.
- A proposed revolving fund of Rs 5,000 crore to guarantee timely payments to farmers, mitigating financial delays.
CM Majhi highlighted that this budget embodies the dreams and determination of Odisha's 4.5 crore people, crafted under the guidance of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2005. He stated, "Our clear goal is this — development must reach every village, and prosperity must enter every home through efficient utilisation of resources."
Opposition Leader Naveen Patnaik's Sharp Criticism
In contrast, leader of opposition Naveen Patnaik launched a scathing critique of the budget, describing it as "a full menu in an empty kitchen." He expressed disappointment, accusing the double-engine government of taking Odisha in reverse gear despite earlier promises of substantial benefits. Patnaik remarked, "Welcome to the new era where every newborn child in Odisha will be welcomed with a per capita loan burden of nearly Rs 30,000," questioning the financial sustainability and realism of the proposed measures.
The budget presentation has thus sparked a heated debate between the ruling party's vision for development and the opposition's concerns over implementation and fiscal prudence.
