BJD to step up demand for special category state status

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is set to step up the demand for special category state status and package to Odisha during the ensuing Budget session of Parliament.
This was decided at the BJD Parliamentary Party meeting presided over by the party president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik here today.
Patnaik told reporters after the meeting that he had discussions with BJD MPs on issues to be raised by them in the ensuing Budget session of Parliament.
The MPs have been asked to pursue timely repair and restoration of Lord Jagannath temple in Puri with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the concerned ministries, release of dues pending towards drought of 2015 and cyclone 'Phailin' of 2013, he said.

The party MPs would also seek release of central share towards completion of five new medical colleges and press for modification of existing rice and wheat allotment ratio to suit the needs of National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries, Patnaik said.
Stating that Odisha has been historically neglected, BJD parliamentary party spokesperson Kalikesh Narayan Singhdeo said grant of special package and special category state status would enable the state to overcome difficulties and move on the path of development.