Did Naveen Patnaik Criticize the Odisha Supplementary Budget for Being Visionless and Deceptive?
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Synopsis
In a strong rebuttal, Naveen Patnaik criticizes Odisha's recently presented Supplementary Budget, calling it an inadequate response to public expectations. He highlights the lack of significant initiatives and warns about the rising fiscal deficit. As the state grapples with economic challenges, his remarks raise essential questions about governance and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Naveen Patnaik criticizes the Odisha Supplementary Budget for lacking vision.
- The budget amounts to Rs 17,440 crore for the fiscal year 2025-2026.
- Concerns raised about rising fiscal deficit and administrative expenditure cuts.
- Key allocations include funds for paddy procurement and the Public Distribution System.
- Government aims to manage expenditure through savings and year-end surrenders.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 29 (NationPress) Following the presentation of the Rs 17,440 crore Supplementary Budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in the state Assembly, the Leader of the Opposition and Biju Janata Dal president Naveen Patnaik launched a fierce critique of the government, claiming the Budget has "dashed the hopes" of the state's citizens.
Patnaik expressed through a social media update that the initial Supplementary Budget from the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) administration is devoid of any significant infrastructure projects or a long-term strategy, thus disappointing those eager for substantial development in the government's first complete year.
The former Chief Minister accused the fiscal plan of steering Odisha deeper into a "fiscal deficit trap," all while administrative spending decreases and the state's debt continues to rise.
"Aside from the allocations for the Works Department (Rs 900 crore) and a handful of urban infrastructure initiatives, this budget lacks any meaningful content," he remarked in the post.
Patnaik further alleged that the government introduced this Supplementary Budget solely to "conceal the diminishing Central support and its own inefficiencies," adding, "This Supplementary Budget does not serve the interests of the people of Odisha; it is merely an additional attempt to mislead them."
Chief Minister Majhi, who also oversees the finance portfolio, introduced the Rs 17,440 crore Supplementary Budget in the state Assembly on Friday.
The total allocation includes Rs 3,389 crore for administrative expenses, which covers Rs 1,406 crore for government debt servicing and Rs 250 crore for road and bridge upkeep.
The government has allocated Rs 13,716 crore for various government programs and priority sectors.
Major funding under program expenditure features Rs 3,000 crore for the revolving fund for paddy procurement and Rs 1,325 crore for subsidies under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Additionally, Rs 850 crore is designated for the Samrudha Krushaka Yojana, which encompasses Minimum Support Price (MSP) payments and input support for farmers.
Significant funding has also been proposed for the National Health Mission (Rs 994 crore) and the SUBHADRA Yojana (Rs 295 crore), a prominent women's empowerment scheme.
According to finance officials, the funding for program expenditure will draw Rs 1,232 crore from tied-up resources, with the remainder being covered through savings and year-end surrenders.
Point of View
This critique by Naveen Patnaik underscores a critical dialogue about fiscal responsibility and governance in Odisha. The highlighted concerns regarding the Supplementary Budget resonate with broader issues of transparency and effective policy-making, reflecting the need for accountability from elected officials.
NationPress
29/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total amount of the Odisha Supplementary Budget?
The Odisha Supplementary Budget for the financial year 2025-2026 amounts to Rs 17,440 crore.
Who criticized the Odisha Supplementary Budget?
Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of the Opposition and Biju Janata Dal chief, criticized the Supplementary Budget.
What key issues did Naveen Patnaik raise?
Patnaik raised concerns about the budget lacking significant infrastructure initiatives and leading Odisha towards a fiscal deficit.
What are some allocations made in the budget?
The budget includes Rs 3,000 crore for paddy procurement and Rs 1,325 crore for the Public Distribution System.
How does the government plan to fund the program expenditure?
The program expenditure will be funded through Rs 1,232 crore from tied-up resources, along with savings and year-end surrenders.
