Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is set to present the Odisha Budget for the financial year 2024-25 in the state assembly today. In a pre-budget consultation meeting held on July 12 at the Convention Hall of Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar, Majhi emphasized that the budget would be a “people’s budget,” reflecting the aspirations of the citizens of Odisha.
Public Participation and Feedback
Majhi highlighted the government’s efforts to include public opinion in the budget preparation process. Over 12,000 suggestions were received through online platforms, six times more than previous years. This surge in public participation underscores the government’s commitment to creating an inclusive and participatory budget. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the valuable feedback and assured that these suggestions would be considered in the budget.
Historic Budget Allocation
This year’s budget plan is anticipated to rise to Rs 3 lakh crore, significantly higher than previous budgets. This will be the first full budget of the newly formed BJP government in the state, following a four-month interim budget by the previous administration. The budget session of the Odisha Assembly will be conducted in two phases, ending on September 13, with a total of 27 working days.
Protecting Odia Identity
During his address, CM Majhi stressed the importance of preserving and promoting Odia Asmita (identity) through initiatives in language, literature, culture, and heritage. The government plans to establish a Rs 200 crore corpus fund, create the Odia Asmita Bhawan, and develop institutions like the Odisha Translation Academy and Palm Leaf Manuscript Museum.
Vision 2036: Developed Odisha
Majhi outlined a vision for a developed Odisha by 2036, with the next five years being crucial for laying the foundation. The government aims to position Odisha as the leading state in a developed India by 2047. This vision includes various initiatives to enhance infrastructure, education, and employment opportunities in the state.
Major Initiatives and Programs
Subhadra Yojana Scheme: Launching on September 17, this scheme will provide Rs 50,000 to each woman beneficiary, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday.
Education Reforms: In line with the National Education Policy-2020, a state-level education policy will be introduced to improve access to higher education, including law, medical, and engineering courses. Additionally, 800 government schools will be developed as PM Shri schools, and skill development programs will be decentralized to equip youth with industry-relevant skills.
Employment Opportunities: The government has pledged to fill 1.50 lakh government posts, focusing on vacant positions in the public sector. Within the next two years, 65,000 government posts will be filled to enhance employment opportunities.
Chief Minister Majhi reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening democracy by valuing public opinion and resolving grievances through a structured system. The inclusive approach to budget preparation and the ambitious vision for a developed Odisha by 2036 reflect the government’s determination to fulfill the dreams and aspirations of the people of Odisha.
(With inputs from agencies)
