Patnaik changes track, says ‘shocked’ by Budget

Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik (Source: PTI photo)

Two days after praising the Rail Budget, Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Saturday criticised the 2015-16 Budget and the recommendations of the Fourteenth Finance Commission for having no matching action or financial commitment, though it talked of a vision for 2022.

“Orissa has been hit on two counts — unfavourable recommendations of 14th Finance Commission and lesser plan allocation in Budget. Even though there is a talk of focus on irrigation and agriculture in the Budget, the allocation towards the crucial sectors has been abysmally low. There is nothing for the people of Orissa except for a new Institute of Science and Education Research. Though some decisions are expected to give boost to the overall economy, I am deeply disappointed,” said Patnaik.

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Naveen lamented that the Budget outlay for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan had been reduced from Rs 9,233.75 crore to Rs 2,100 crore while the same for mid-day meals in schools had been reduced from Rs 8,734 crore to Rs 7,775 crore.

“While the Budget indicates a focus on rapid development in eastern states and special assistance for Bihar and West Begal, Orissa has been neglected. Our state faced two of the worst calamities in the form of Phailin and Hudhud. Orissa deserved special focus. I am shocked this has been overlooked,” he said.