Union Budget 2021: Here Is What Odisha Demands

Bhubaneswar:  Odisha Government has sought adequate fund allocation for the State in Union Budget for 2021-22.

The State demanded Rs 72,000 crore for the development of Railway infrastructure in Odisha and sanctioning of new railway lines.

Taking part in the pre-budget consultation meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Odisha Finance Minister Niranjan Pujari said that adequate budget provision should also be made for station modernisation, establishment of rail-based industries and multi-modal logistics and parks in State.

Odisha government has also demanded Rs 5,600 crore to strengthen the telecom sector. The State's demands also include opening of bank branches in every panchayat to enhance financial inclusion of rural people.

To develop the National Highways and ensure piped drinking water to every household, the State Finance Minister has also sought sufficient funds provision in the Union Budget.

The State also reiterated its demand to make 90: 10 as fund sharing pattern under centrally sponsored schemes like North-Eastern and Himalayan States. Currently Odisha shares 40% of funds in most of the centrally sponsored schemes.