Odisha Assembly Budget: Governor’s Address Focuses on Education, Employment, Infrastructure
The Governor emphasised efforts to rejuvenate and promote the Odia identity. He asserted that Odisha is progressing in line with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ with a goal of achieving ‘Bikasita Odisha’ by 2036.
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Legislative Assembly's Budget Session commenced on Thursday with Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati’s address, setting the tone for the state's developmental agenda.
With the traditional 'Jai Jagannath' greeting, the Governor emphasised the government’s commitment to eradicating poverty, addressing youth unemployment, supporting farmers, and empowering women.
Highlighting the state’s flagship welfare schemes, the Governor lauded the success of the Subhadra Yojana, which has benefited over one crore women. Reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to agriculture, he announced an increase in the minimum support price (MSP) for paddy by Rs 800, taking it to Rs 3,100 per quintal.
Reaffirming the state’s cultural pride, the Governor emphasised efforts to rejuvenate and promote the Odia identity. He asserted that Odisha is progressing in line with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ with a goal of achieving ‘Bikasita Odisha’ by 2036.
The Governor underlined Odisha’s ambitious education roadmap, with the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) aimed at positioning the state as a leader in India’s development by 2047. Under the ‘Utkarsh Odisha’ initiative, the state successfully hosted Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, garnering over 300,000 suggestions for Vision 2036.
To boost employment, Odisha has pledged to create 1.5 lakh government jobs over the next five years, with 65,000 positions to be filled in the first two years. The weaving sector is set to generate 50,000 additional employment opportunities within the same period. The Kamadhenu Scheme, supporting the agricultural sector, benefits approximately 46 lakh women and children with nutritional aid.
At the recent Utkarsh Odisha Conclave, the state signed MoUs worth Rs 12.89 lakh crore, paving the way for significant economic growth. The government reaffirmed its commitment to infrastructure development, promising regular tap water supply to all households by 2026, with 115 urban areas set to benefit. Additionally, the state aims for round-the-clock electricity coverage and comprehensive rail connectivity across all districts.
The Governor also praised Odisha’s sports talent and ongoing housing initiatives, including the PM Awas Yojana, which continues to provide shelter to thousands.
With these initiatives, the Odisha government aims to drive inclusive growth, ensuring sustainable progress for all sections of society, the Governor concluded in his address.
