Andhra, Bihar Benefit from Budget, Odisha Overlooked: Naveen Patnaik

Naveen Patnaik has voiced strong criticisms regarding the 2024 Union Budget presented by Nirmala Sitharaman, accusing the BJP-led NDA government of failing to honor its promises and neglecting Odisha. Patnaik, the former chief minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief, has expressed discontent over what he perceives as gross negligence and partiality towards other states, particularly Andhra Pradesh and Bihar.

Central to Patnaik’s critique is the BJP’s unfulfilled promise to grant Odisha special category status, which was highlighted in their manifesto before the 2024 state assembly elections. He accused the NDA government of ignoring this pledge, despite its significant importance to the people of Odisha. “The BJP had promised special category status in their manifesto. However, this promise has not been addressed for Odisha, while special packages and substantial funds have been allocated to Andhra Pradesh and Bihar in Budget 2024,” Patnaik said. He emphasized that the state’s long-standing demand for a revision of coal royalty—a key revenue source—has been rejected, leading to potential annual losses of thousands of crores.

Patnaik further criticized the Budget for failing to address promises made during the election campaign concerning various sectors in Odisha. He pointed out the lack of mention of significant investments or initiatives in agriculture, MSME, and industry sectors. “The Budget does not reflect the promises made to the people of Odisha regarding the agriculture sector and MSPs. This indicates a complete neglect of Odisha and its needs,” Patnaik stated.

Additionally, Patnaik highlighted the state’s repeated requests for a special package for disaster management, given Odisha’s vulnerability to natural disasters like floods and cyclones. He noted that similar demands from other states have been met promptly, whereas Odisha’s requests have been ignored.

In her Budget speech, Sitharaman announced substantial funding for the Polavaram irrigation project in Andhra Pradesh, which Patnaik criticized as showing bias. “Allocating more funds for Polavaram without addressing Odisha’s genuine grievances demonstrates impartiality towards our state,” he claimed. Reflecting on the NDA government’s decade-long tenure, Patnaik alleged that despite assurances of focusing on Eastern India, including Odisha, the state has seen minimal substantial benefits.

Overall, Patnaik’s response to the Budget underscores a broader discontent with what he views as inequitable treatment and unfulfilled promises, emphasizing a need for greater attention and fairness towards Odisha’s specific requirements and challenges.