Odisha’s Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) election campaign from Hinjili, his home assembly constituency, expressing confidence in winning both Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. The launch marks the official commencement of BJD’s campaign for the upcoming polls.
Addressing a public rally in Hinjili, Patnaik outlined a 10-year development plan with a strong emphasis on empowering the youth. He announced plans for a youth budget aimed at harnessing the potential of the State’s young population for its development. Patnaik envisioned the next decade, from 2024 to 2034, as a golden era for the youth of Odisha, with a focus on industrial investment, employment generation, and skill development.
Emphasizing the importance of development, Patnaik asserted that the period from 2024 to 2034 would be known as the decade of Odisha. He said, “Peace, prosperity, and empowerment will be our identity.”
Patnaik criticized opposition political parties for indulging in politics and opposing development. He said, “Development is our identity, but it is sad that opposition parties are busy in self-publicity. People are well aware of their anti-development attitude and know their real character.”
Amidst continuous applause in Hinjili, Patnaik highlighted the successful implementation of various government programs in the constituency. He said, “Hinjili has become a model of development in the whole country. The 5T school transformation program was launched from Hinjili. Ama Hospital began from here, and the temple development program started from Tara Tarini temple. These programs have become hugely successful.”
Patnaik also noted Odisha’s leading role in disaster management, food grain provision, and the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojna (BSKY) health coverage scheme. He said, “Odisha is also a leading state in disaster management and providing food grain to people. Besides, it has received high investment compared to other States, and BSKY has become one of its kind schemes.”
Patnaik’s public rally in Hinjili marks the beginning of the campaign trail for the upcoming elections. Odisha will go to poll in four phases on May 13, 20, 25, and June 1.
