Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday described the state’s 2026-27 budget as more than a financial statement, calling it a “robust roadmap” for Odisha’s holistic development and the fulfilment of citizens’ aspirations.
Speaking at the state-level budget awareness workshop “Ame Janiba, Ama Budget” at the Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Centre, the chief minister said the government has aligned its fiscal vision with national goals, setting ambitious targets for 2047.
He said Odisha aims to raise per capita income from Rs 1.8 lakh to Rs 32 lakh, reduce multidimensional poverty to 5%, increase women’s workforce participation to 70%, and push life expectancy beyond 80 years. The government also plans to eliminate anaemia and malnutrition completely.
Highlighting the scale of the budget, Majhi said the 2026-27 financial plan lays a strong foundation for a developed and prosperous Odisha. The budget proposes a total outlay of Rs 3.10 lakh crore, marking a 7% increase over the previous year’s estimates, with a strong focus on capital expenditure. A total of 31 new initiatives have been introduced across sectors.
The chief minister further outlined long-term economic goals, stating that Odisha is targeting a USD 500 billion economy by 2036 and USD 1.5 trillion by 2047. He expressed confidence that while the targets may appear ambitious, they are achievable with the collective strength of the people and the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
The budget places priority on infrastructure, industry, tourism, agriculture, education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Key projects include the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri–Paradip Economic Corridor and National Waterway 5, alongside new corridor and port initiatives aimed at transforming Odisha into a major logistics hub.
Tourism is also expected to receive a boost through the Shamuqa project in Puri and the restoration of Chilika Lake, which are projected to enhance the state’s appeal as a travel destination.
Focusing on inclusive growth, Majhi said the budget includes targeted interventions for rural development, employment generation, and migration control. Women-centric schemes such as “Subhadra,” “Lakhpati Didi,” and “Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala” have been allocated dedicated funding to strengthen financial independence and social empowerment.
In the social sector, the government plans to expand access to quality services by setting up new medical colleges, universities, and ICU facilities across the state.
Majhi also announced that the “Ame Janiba, Ama Budget” campaign will be conducted from April 1 to 14 across Odisha to simplify and communicate budget provisions to the public. He urged citizens to actively participate and share feedback.
