December 20th 2024.
The city of Bhubaneswar was abuzz with discussions about the need for a significant amount of investment to create a top-notch tourism infrastructure in Odisha. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, in a meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emphasized the urgent need for a special package to support this development. The meeting, held in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, was a pre-budget consultation where Majhi asserted that approximately Rs 10,000 crore would be required for this purpose. He further stated that this generous package would greatly benefit the state and its tourism sector in the upcoming budget of the financial year 2025-26.
Expressing his gratitude to Sitharaman for recognizing the tourism potential of Odisha in the previous budget speech, Majhi remained optimistic about the impact a special package would have on the sector. He also took this opportunity to urge the Centre's support for the state's urbanization. Majhi pointed out that Odisha's urbanization rate was significantly lower than the national average, and with cities being the driving force of growth, this aspect deserved attention. He stressed the need for substantial capital investment, and sought the Centre's assistance in achieving this goal.
Majhi put forth his request to consider launching a new scheme for the purpose of urbanization, as well as sanctioning the development of two new industrial townships in Gopalpur and Jharsuguda. He believed that these initiatives would accelerate economic growth in southern and western regions of the state. Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement about Odisha being the growth engine of the country in the future, Majhi was determined to achieve this vision with the support of the Centre. He urged for assistance in developing crucial infrastructure such as industrial parks, railways, roads, ports, and airports.
Bringing attention to some pending projects, Majhi urged the Centre to expedite initiatives like Sagarmala, East Coast Economic Corridor, and National Waterway 5, as they would significantly contribute to the industrial development of Odisha. He also proposed a dedicated scheme under the 'Purvodaya' initiative to support critical infrastructure development in the eastern states. Additionally, Majhi requested the inclusion of uncovered blocks of Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts under the Aspirational Blocks program to fulfill the expectations of the people. He emphasized the high hopes and aspirations of the people of Odisha for transformation in sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
In conclusion, Chief Minister Majhi's meeting with Union Finance Minister Sitharaman was a productive one, with the former putting forth the urgent need for a special package to support the development of tourism and urbanization in Odisha. He also emphasized the state's potential for growth and urged for the Centre's assistance in crucial infrastructure development projects. With a positive outlook for the future, it remains to be seen how the Centre will respond to these requests and support the state's development.
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