Union Budget receives mixed reaction from Odisha CM

The Union Budget for 2018-19, presented in Parliament on Thursday, received a mixed reaction from the Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who welcomed the decision to increase Minimum Support Price for crops and the National Health Protection Scheme, but expressed disappointment over some issues.

"It has been our constant demand to increase the Minimum Support Price to 1.5 times of the cost of production of crops. I am happy that it looks like our demand has been accepted," said Patnaik.

He, however, said the cost of production must take into account the actual cost incurred by farmers on a realistic basis.

"I welcome the intent of the Central Government. At the same time, I am keenly waiting to see the modalities of calculation," he added.

The Chief Minister also expressed his happiness for introduction of a National Health Protection Scheme to cover 10 crore poor.

"It would have been better that instead of a target of 10 crores, universal coverage extending to all eligible poor families was incorporated. If such a step is taken, State Government will fully support it," said Patnaik.

He said that he is disappointed that again the Central Government has missed out the focus for KBK (Koraput, Bolangir and Kalahandi districts) and other tribal areas.

"In fact, the allocation for SCs, STs and other vulnerable sections and social sectors is grossly inadequate," he noted.

The Chief Minister also expressed his concern over the low level of allocations for MGNREGA, the midday meal scheme, the National Health Mission and PMGSY.

"I am surprised by the reduction in allocation under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, while we have a commitment towards Housing for All," said Patnaik.

Maintaining that irrigation will play a major role in doubling farmers' income, he said marginal increase in allocation for irrigation is a serious concern.

Reacting to the railway budget allocation, the Chief Minister said the government hopes that this year allotment is made as per the demand.

"Total outlay for Odisha for 2018-19 for Railway is not known yet as against our demand of Rs 6500 crore. We hope this year the allotment is made as per our demand," he added.

"We hope that our just demands like daily Rajdhani service via Sambalpur; train to Allahabad from Bolangir and a new daily express train to Mumbai in the name of Paika leader Baxi Jagabandhu are announced immediately," he said.

As the Union Budget announced plans for re-development of 600 railway stations, Patnaik said two years ago the announcement was for 400 railway stations.

Nothing has happened in this sector, specifically for Odisha, in which 12 railway stations had been chosen, he said.

--IANS

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