Bhubaneswar, July 23: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for giving special importance to the development of Odisha’s tourism sector in the Union Budget 2024.
Taking to his official ‘X’ handle, CM Majhi wrote, “On behalf of the people of Odisha, I thank Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for giving special importance to the development of Odisha tourism sector in the current budget and providing necessary financial support.”
“The tourism sector including wildlife, marine resources and temple development will contribute significantly to Odisha's economic development, making Odisha a center of tourist attraction,” he added.
Addressing a press conference, Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo praised the Union Budget, highlighting that the state’s demands, presented in the pre-budget meeting, have been fulfilled.
“I must thank the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for including Odisha’s demands put forth during the pre-budget meeting. Odisha will see ample job opportunities, reducing the need for youths to migrate for work, as the Finance Minister has focused on developing the tourism sector, including the coastline, temples, heritage sites, and forests. She has also prioritized the farmers and the agricultural sector,” he said.
Singh Deo also acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he has fulfilled all his election promises. “On behalf of the government and the people of Odisha, I would like to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The promises made by the Prime Minister during the election period are reflected in the Union Budget,” he added.
Singh Deo emphasized that this is the largest budget Odisha has received from the Centre, surpassing those during the UPA government. He pointed out that the people of Odisha will benefit from the development in tourism, agriculture, and seafood export sectors, noting that Odisha has received more than its due share in this budget.
Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik expressed his disappointment over the Union Budget, stating that it fails to fulfill the promises made by BJP leaders during the elections and it is a disappointment for Odisha.
"During elections, BJP leaders had given many big assurances for the state, but there is nothing in the Budget for Odisha. Along with the people of the state, I feel disappointed at the continued neglect of Odisha," said Naveen.
