Bhubaneswar: The much-awaited Budget Session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly commenced on Thursday, with Governor Hari Bahu Kambhampati addressing the House. Beginning with the traditional “Jai Jagannath” greeting, he outlined the government’s core priorities, including poverty alleviation, youth employment, farmer welfare, and women’s empowerment.
Major Announcements & Policy Highlights
Subhadra Yojana: Over 1 crore women have benefitted from this initiative.
Farmers’ Welfare: The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy has been increased by ₹800 to ₹3,100 per quintal.
Odisha’s Identity & Cultural Promotion: The government is committed to preserving and promoting the Odia heritage.
Development Roadmap: The state is aligning with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, aiming for a ‘Bikasita Odisha by 2036’.
Employment, Education & Economic Growth
New Education Policy: Odisha seeks to solidify its place in India’s development landscape.
Utkarsh Odisha Initiative: The state successfully hosted the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, gathering over 3 lakh suggestions for Vision 2036.
Job Creation: Plans to generate 1.5 lakh government jobs over five years, with 65,000 recruitments in the next two years.
Weaving Industry: Expected to create 50,000 jobs within two years.
Kamadhenu Scheme: Focus on agricultural investments and nutritional aid for 46 lakh women and children.
Investment Boost: ₹12.89 lakh crore MoUs were signed during the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave.
Infrastructure & Public Welfare
Water & Electricity: Odisha aims for regular piped water supply across 115 cities and 24/7 electricity coverage by 2026.
Transport Connectivity: Plans for comprehensive rail links to all districts.
Housing Development: Ongoing support for the PM Awas Yojana.
Concluding his address, Governor Kambhampati reaffirmed the state’s commitment to holistic development, ensuring economic growth, infrastructure expansion, and social welfare programs for Odisha’s progress.
