Challenges ahead for new BJP government in Odisha; 'budget to be litmus test'

Odisha’s new Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has been in action mode, taking key decisions including the opening of four gates of Puri Srimandir. Yet, if the ongoing discussions in the political corridors are anything to go by, it may not be smooth sailing for Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, given several challenges ahead. 

Even though the Chief Minister played a masterstroke immediately after his assuming office by taking decisions like the opening of four gates of Srimandir, implementation of Subhadra Yojana and hike of paddy MSP to Rs 3100, he may come across challenges ahead in fulfilling the promises made in the manifesto like the opening of Ratna Bhandar, refund of money to chit fund victims within 18 months and implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. 

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“We have increased the paddy MSP from Rs 2180 to Rs 3100. The Odisha government is going to take several such steps in the next cabinet meetings. The government will act to meet people’s expectations,” said Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, a cabinet minister. 

Another cabinet minister Rabi Narayan Nayak said, “We have prepared 100 days’ agenda. Once portfolios are allotted and duties assigned, accountability will be fixed.” 

“The former Chief Minister has asked us to work for the betterment of the people while being in Opposition,” said BJD MLA Ashwini Patra. 

Meanwhile, political analysts are waiting for the budget which will prove to be a litmus test for the government’s efficiency. 

“In their manifesto, they pledged that they would give a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to all senior citizens. We don’t know how much money will be required for this. We also don’t know how many women are going to benefit under the Subhadra Yojana and how much money will be allocated for that. The Opposition is so strong that they would corner them every moment, forcing them to answer,” said political analyst Rabi Das.