June 22nd 2024.
The newly elected BJP government in Odisha is making moves to further develop the state, as stated in an official release on Saturday. Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo represented Odisha in a meeting with other state finance ministers, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi.
During this meeting, the Odisha government submitted a memorandum to the Centre, requesting for the expansion of Paradip port, the establishment of a second AIIMS at Sambalpur, and a higher allocation of funds for infrastructure development. The memorandum also highlighted the need for increased allocation under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2024-25, in order to accelerate infrastructure development.
In addition to these requests, the state government also emphasized the importance of completing National Highway projects, specifically the Coastal Highway and Capital Region Ring Road, in a timely manner. They also put forth a proposal for the implementation of the "Subhadra" Scheme, aimed at promoting women's welfare through entrepreneurship and providing them with a better quality of life. This scheme promises to provide Rs 50,000 to eligible women, fulfilling a campaign promise made by the BJP during the elections.
Moreover, the Odisha government sought support from the Centre for various initiatives, such as the construction of 5 lakh houses in rural and urban areas under the PMAY scheme, as well as for new city development and rapid urbanization in the state. They also brought up the issue of power sector reforms and the adoption of new technologies, such as green hydrogen, for which they requested financial support from the Centre. Additionally, the state sought central funding for green energy corridor projects in Odisha.
In response to these demands, the Union Finance Minister has assured the Odisha government that their requests will be looked into. This is a promising step towards the development of the state, as mentioned in the release issued by the Chief Minister's office.
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