Politics over Cyclone Fani is getting intensifies day by day. PM Modi calls Mamata Banerjee arrogant. PM Modi also praises Naveen Patnaik for coordinating relief work.

India Election Watch: Cyclone Politics grips India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the "communication between the state and the Central government was very good" owing to which a mass human destruction could be averted in the wake of cyclone Fani.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister praised the people of Odisha for complying with every instruction issued by the government.&nbsp;

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PM Modi: Communication was very good between state and Central Govt.I was also monitoring. The way people of Odisha complied with every instruction of Govt is praiseworthy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneFani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneFani</a> <a href="https://t.co/2g4iMDBZin">pic.twitter.com/2g4iMDBZin</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1125278736209694720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He said that an additional sum of Rs 1,000 crore will be released for the state in addition to Rs 381 crore that was released previously.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Narendra Modi says,"Naveen babu ne bohat acha plan kiya, Bharat sarkar usmein unke saath reh karke sari cheezon ko aage badha payegi." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneFani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneFani</a> <a href="https://t.co/MnGxBcTeFh">pic.twitter.com/MnGxBcTeFh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1125283571789254656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi's remarks came shortly after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-pm-modi-conducts-aerial-survey-of-ravaged-areas-in-odisha-216274">he undertook an aerial survey of the cyclone-ravaged areas of Odisha</a> after which he held a review meeting with state Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and other officials.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi: Govt of India had announced Rs 381 crore earlier, a further Rs 1000 crore will be released now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cycloneFani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cycloneFani</a> <a href="https://t.co/mqFNvBUuB1">pic.twitter.com/mqFNvBUuB1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1125279354756276224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, government sources told news agency ANI that a similar review meeting was to take place in West Bengal in relation to cyclone Fani but the state government has replied that the officials are busy with election duty and hence <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-refuses-to-hold-review-meeting-for-fani-with-pm-modi-216323">the review meeting should not be held</a>, ANI reported.&nbsp;

On Sunday, it was reported that PM Modi had on Saturday tried to contact West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss cyclone Fani but could not do so as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-could-not-talk-to-mamata-over-cyclone-as-his-calls-were-not-returned-official-216063">his calls were not returned</a>, a top government official has said.

The prime minister then spoke to state governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, the official said as reported by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the "communication between the state and the Central government was very good" owing to which a mass human destruction could be averted in the wake of cyclone Fani.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the "communication between the state and the Central government was very good" owing to which a mass human destruction could be averted in the wake of cyclone Fani. The Prime Minister praised the people of Odisha for complying with every instruction issued by the government. PM Modi: Communication was very good between state and Central Govt.I was also monitoring. The way people of Odisha complied with every instruction of Govt is praiseworthy #CycloneFani pic.twitter.com/2g4iMDBZin — ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2019 × He said that an additional sum of Rs 1,000 crore will be released for the state in addition to Rs 381 crore that was released previously. #WATCH: PM Narendra Modi says,"Naveen babu ne bohat acha plan kiya, Bharat sarkar usmein unke saath reh karke sari cheezon ko aage badha payegi." #CycloneFani pic.twitter.com/MnGxBcTeFh — ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2019 × PM Modi's remarks came shortly after he undertook an aerial survey of the cyclone-ravaged areas of Odisha after which he held a review meeting with state Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and other officials. PM Narendra Modi: Govt of India had announced Rs 381 crore earlier, a further Rs 1000 crore will be released now. #cycloneFani pic.twitter.com/mqFNvBUuB1 — ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2019 × Meanwhile, government sources told news agency ANI that a similar review meeting was to take place in West Bengal in relation to cyclone Fani but the state government has replied that the officials are busy with election duty and hence the review meeting should not be held, ANI reported. On Sunday, it was reported that PM Modi had on Saturday tried to contact West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss cyclone Fani but could not do so as his calls were not returned, a top government official has said. The prime minister then spoke to state governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, the official said as reported by news agency PTI. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi reviews situation in cyclone-hit Odisha, lauds state government; says 'another Rs 1,000 crore to be released'

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan have come forward with donations for those affected by cyclone 'Fani', which caused widespread destruction in the state and claimed at least 35 lives, reported news agency PTI.

"As a mark of solidarity with the people of Odisha, I am donating Rs 1,000,000 from the Dalai Lama Trust to the efforts to provide relief and rebuilt," a letter written by the Dalai Lama's office to Patnaik, said.

The spiritual leader also hailed the measures taken by the Odisha government in facing the cyclonic storm. Due to the proactive steps, the human casualties have been minimal, the Dalai Lama said.

"At the same time, I would like to express my sadness about the lives that were lost, the devastation of property, and hardship this storm has caused to many people," he said.

Meanwhile, Patnaik announced he will donate one year's salary to the chief minister's relief fund for the cyclone-hit people, the report added.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also donated his one month's salary.

Official sources said the government of Chhattishgarh has donated Rs 11 crore to the chief minister's relief fund, while Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu contributed Rs 10 crore each for the cyclone victims. The Uttarakhand government has donated Rs 5 crore.&nbsp;

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan have come forward with donations for those affected by cyclone 'Fani', which caused widespread destruction in the state and claimed at least 35 lives, reported news agency PTI.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan have come forward with donations for those affected by cyclone 'Fani', which caused widespread destruction in the state and claimed at least 35 lives, reported news agency PTI. "As a mark of solidarity with the people of Odisha, I am donating Rs 1,000,000 from the Dalai Lama Trust to the efforts to provide relief and rebuilt," a letter written by the Dalai Lama's office to Patnaik, said. The spiritual leader also hailed the measures taken by the Odisha government in facing the cyclonic storm. Due to the proactive steps, the human casualties have been minimal, the Dalai Lama said. "At the same time, I would like to express my sadness about the lives that were lost, the devastation of property, and hardship this storm has caused to many people," he said. Meanwhile, Patnaik announced he will donate one year's salary to the chief minister's relief fund for the cyclone-hit people, the report added. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also donated his one month's salary. Official sources said the government of Chhattishgarh has donated Rs 11 crore to the chief minister's relief fund, while Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu contributed Rs 10 crore each for the cyclone victims. The Uttarakhand government has donated Rs 5 crore.

Cyclone Fani: Dalai Lama, Patnaik, Pradhan donate for victims

Cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha on Friday, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people, blowing away thatched houses, and swamping towns and villages, officials said.

The extremely <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-in-west-bengal-215767">severe cyclonic storm 'Fani'</a> or the 'Hood of Snake' made landfall around 8 am in Puri, with roaring winds flattening huts, enveloping the pilgrim town in sheets of rain, and submerging homes.

Though the 'extremely severe' cyclone unexpectedly weakened into 'very severe' cyclonic storm in a matter of few hours, it left a trail of devastation in large parts of coastal Odisha, with the seaside pilgrim town of Puri being the worst hit.

At least eight people have been reported dead so far in the state, senior officials said, adding information was still awaited from many areas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclone-fani-and-why-it-is-so-powerful-215425">In pics:&nbsp;Cyclone Fani and why it is so powerful</a>

While three people, including a teenage boy, were reported killed in Puri district, three perished in Bhubaneswar and nearby areas. Flying debris from a concrete structure fatally struck a woman in Nayagarh. An elderly woman died of a heart attack at a relief shelter in Kendrapara district, official sources said.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, held a review meeting with senior officials on the destruction caused by the cyclone in the state.

Speaking to media in Bhubaneshwar after the meeting, Patnaik said in the last 24 hours, over 12 lakh people have been evacuated from vulnerable districts to safer locations.

He also informed, Puri district, particularly the holy town where the cyclone first hit the land mass, suffered huge damage. "Energy infrastructure has been completely destroyed. Restoration of electricity is a challenging task," he said.

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Hundreds of engineers and technicians were working on a war-footing to restore power supply.

Work is on to restore road communication, thrown into disarray with thousands of uprooted trees blocking the way in innumerable places, Patnaik said.

The chief minister said since the cyclone is still passing through Odisha, it will take time to make an assessment of the damage.

The cyclonic system, whose eye is around 28 km wide, moved at around 30 kmph, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, H R Biswas said soon after Fani made the landfall.

But within the system, the winds reached speeds of up to 175 kilometres per hour that gusted up to 200 kmph, leaving in their wake uprooted trees and thatched structures, including in the state capital Bhubaneswar.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) DIG Randeep Rana said not many casualties were reported so far as precautionary measures were in place.

The chief minister said nearly 12 lakh people were evacuated and shifted to safer locations within 24 hours ahead of the cyclone from about 10,000 villages and 52 urban agglomerations in probably the largest such exercise at the time of a natural calamity in the country.

The evacuees have been accommodated in over 4,000 shelters, including 880 specially designed cyclone centres where free cooked food is being served to them, he said.

Telecommunication lines got snapped in several parts of state capital Bhubaneswar and several other areas. Mobile towers were damaged and the power supply was disconnected in many places.

Large-scale damage to thatched and old houses was reported from Puri, Khurda and Cuttack districts, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said.

Summer crops, orchards and plantations also suffered huge damage, he said.

National TV channels showed videos claimed to have been shot by residents of Bhubaneswar where a bus was seen bobbing under the impact of the windstorm before flipping on its side.

A police booth was dragged some 200 ft on a highway by furious winds, while a massive crane alongside a multi-storeyed under-construction building collapsed on a row of empty huts, jolted by the howling storm.

Flight operations at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bhubaneswar-airports-equipment-significantly-damaged-flight-ops-likely-from-1pm-saturday-govt-215744">Bhubaneswar airport remained suspended</a> on Friday, while Paradip and Gopalpur ports were also closed as a precautionary measure.

Around 220 trains on Howrah-Chennai route have been cancelled keeping in view passengers' safety, an East Coast Railway (ECoR) official said.

As Fani pummelled Odisha, neighbouring West Bengal braced itself for its fury.

The sky was overcast in Kolkata and several other places since Friday morning as rain came in spurts, inundating several parts of the state capital.

Traffic snarls were reported from different places in the city.

Meanwhile, '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-in-west-bengal-215767">Fani'&nbsp;made landfall in West Bengal this morning</a>, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday.

The cyclonic story crossed Kharagpur and is likely to continue further in North-East direction with a wind speed of 90 km/hour.

Cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha on Friday, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people, blowing away thatched houses, and swamping towns and villages, officials said.

Cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha on Friday, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people, blowing away thatched houses, and swamping towns and villages, officials said. The extremely severe cyclonic storm 'Fani' or the 'Hood of Snake' made landfall around 8 am in Puri, with roaring winds flattening huts, enveloping the pilgrim town in sheets of rain, and submerging homes. Though the 'extremely severe' cyclone unexpectedly weakened into 'very severe' cyclonic storm in a matter of few hours, it left a trail of devastation in large parts of coastal Odisha, with the seaside pilgrim town of Puri being the worst hit. At least eight people have been reported dead so far in the state, senior officials said, adding information was still awaited from many areas. In pics: Cyclone Fani and why it is so powerful While three people, including a teenage boy, were reported killed in Puri district, three perished in Bhubaneswar and nearby areas. Flying debris from a concrete structure fatally struck a woman in Nayagarh. An elderly woman died of a heart attack at a relief shelter in Kendrapara district, official sources said. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, held a review meeting with senior officials on the destruction caused by the cyclone in the state. Speaking to media in Bhubaneshwar after the meeting, Patnaik said in the last 24 hours, over 12 lakh people have been evacuated from vulnerable districts to safer locations. He also informed, Puri district, particularly the holy town where the cyclone first hit the land mass, suffered huge damage. "Energy infrastructure has been completely destroyed. Restoration of electricity is a challenging task," he said. × Hundreds of engineers and technicians were working on a war-footing to restore power supply. Work is on to restore road communication, thrown into disarray with thousands of uprooted trees blocking the way in innumerable places, Patnaik said. The chief minister said since the cyclone is still passing through Odisha, it will take time to make an assessment of the damage. The cyclonic system, whose eye is around 28 km wide, moved at around 30 kmph, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, H R Biswas said soon after Fani made the landfall. But within the system, the winds reached speeds of up to 175 kilometres per hour that gusted up to 200 kmph, leaving in their wake uprooted trees and thatched structures, including in the state capital Bhubaneswar. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) DIG Randeep Rana said not many casualties were reported so far as precautionary measures were in place. The chief minister said nearly 12 lakh people were evacuated and shifted to safer locations within 24 hours ahead of the cyclone from about 10,000 villages and 52 urban agglomerations in probably the largest such exercise at the time of a natural calamity in the country. The evacuees have been accommodated in over 4,000 shelters, including 880 specially designed cyclone centres where free cooked food is being served to them, he said. Telecommunication lines got snapped in several parts of state capital Bhubaneswar and several other areas. Mobile towers were damaged and the power supply was disconnected in many places. Large-scale damage to thatched and old houses was reported from Puri, Khurda and Cuttack districts, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said. Summer crops, orchards and plantations also suffered huge damage, he said. National TV channels showed videos claimed to have been shot by residents of Bhubaneswar where a bus was seen bobbing under the impact of the windstorm before flipping on its side. A police booth was dragged some 200 ft on a highway by furious winds, while a massive crane alongside a multi-storeyed under-construction building collapsed on a row of empty huts, jolted by the howling storm. Flight operations at Bhubaneswar airport remained suspended on Friday, while Paradip and Gopalpur ports were also closed as a precautionary measure. Around 220 trains on Howrah-Chennai route have been cancelled keeping in view passengers' safety, an East Coast Railway (ECoR) official said. As Fani pummelled Odisha, neighbouring West Bengal braced itself for its fury. The sky was overcast in Kolkata and several other places since Friday morning as rain came in spurts, inundating several parts of the state capital. Traffic snarls were reported from different places in the city. Meanwhile, 'Fani' made landfall in West Bengal this morning, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday. The cyclonic story crossed Kharagpur and is likely to continue further in North-East direction with a wind speed of 90 km/hour.

Cyclone Fani: 8 people dead in Odisha, CM Naveen Patnaik holds review meeting

Vijay Rupani, Naveen Patnaik, Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan among others cast their votes early as the third phase of polling got underway today morning.&nbsp;

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and wife Anjali cast their vote at a polling booth in Anil Gyan Mandir school in Rajkot while &nbsp;BJP President Amit Shah and his wife Sonal Shah cast their votes at a polling booth in Naranpura Sub-Zonal office in Ahmedabad.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan cast his vote at a polling booth in Talcher in Odisha and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik exercised his franchise at a polling booth in Bhubaneswar.

Vijay Rupani, Naveen Patnaik, Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan among others cast their votes early as the third phase of polling got underway today morning. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and wife Anjali cast their vote at a polling booth in Anil Gyan Mandir school in Rajkot while BJP President Amit Shah and his wife Sonal Shah cast their votes at a polling booth in Naranpura Sub-Zonal office in Ahmedabad.

Vijay Rupani, Naveen Patnaik, Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan among others cast their votes early as the third phase of polling got underway today morning. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and wife Anjali cast their vote at a polling booth in Anil Gyan Mandir school in Rajkot while BJP President Amit Shah and his wife Sonal Shah cast their votes at a polling booth in Naranpura Sub-Zonal office in Ahmedabad. Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan cast his vote at a polling booth in Talcher in Odisha and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik exercised his franchise at a polling booth in Bhubaneswar.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Vijay Rupani, Naveen Patnaik, Amit Shah cast their votes in phase 3    

Response in the first two phases of polling is giving sleepless nights to&nbsp;Opposition parties, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. &nbsp;

Addressing an election rally at Kendrapara in Odisha, Modi further said that 'Lahar' (wave) for BJP has become 'Lalkar' (challenge) for the Opposition after two phases of polls.&nbsp;

Prime minister accused the Naveen Patnaik government of resorting to violence and added in Odisha, BJD will go and BJP will come to power after polls.&nbsp;

How will Odisha's car move forward if it has three tyres of BJP and one of some other party? he asked the crowd.&nbsp;

Modi also spoke about his clean image as prime minister and said ''You have seen many governments in the past, ours is the only One which hasn't been mired in any scams: Modi in Odisha.''

Those levelling false allegations against BJP are found Standing in the dock, he said.&nbsp;

Response in the first two phases of polling is giving sleepless nights to Opposition parties, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. Addressing an election rally at Kendrapara in Odisha, Modi further said that 'Lahar' (wave) for BJP has become 'Lalkar' (challenge) for the Opposition after two phases of polls.

Response in the first two phases of polling is giving sleepless nights to Opposition parties, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. Addressing an election rally at Kendrapara in Odisha, Modi further said that 'Lahar' (wave) for BJP has become 'Lalkar' (challenge) for the Opposition after two phases of polls. Prime minister accused the Naveen Patnaik government of resorting to violence and added in Odisha, BJD will go and BJP will come to power after polls. How will Odisha's car move forward if it has three tyres of BJP and one of some other party? he asked the crowd. Modi also spoke about his clean image as prime minister and said ''You have seen many governments in the past, ours is the only One which hasn't been mired in any scams: Modi in Odisha.'' Those levelling false allegations against BJP are found Standing in the dock, he said.

Response in first 2 phases giving sleepless nights to Opposition parties: PM Modi  

Known as a soft and suave kind of politician, BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday came down heavily on the BJP dubbing it "anti-poor" and cautioning the saffron party that its "jumla" will not work in Odisha.

Patnaik said this at election meetings in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts where polling to be held in third and fourth phase on April 23 and April 19 respectively.

"BJP government is anti-poor. It suddenly realised that poor people need to be given cheap rations only three days ago. The realisation came after the BJP understood that it is facing defeat in the first phase of polls in Odisha," Patnaik claimed.

Senior BJP leader and Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said the party if voted to power in the state, will provide 5 kg of rice, half a kg of pulse and half a kg of salt at Re 1 to the poor people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a public meeting in Sambalpur in Odisha Tuesday also referred to this promise.

Seeking a reply from the BJP as to why it did not announce such provisions during the last five years, Patnaik said, "This Jumlawaji (propaganda) will not work in Odisha. The BJP's announcement of sops for the poor during polls clearly exposed its intentions."

Patnaik also lambasted the BJP for putting the common people in trouble by implementing demonetisation and GST, raising the price of petrol, diesel and cooking gas.

"The poor people become poorer due to demonetisation while small traders suffered a lot due to GST," he said.

Patnaik said the BJD government is committed to the poor farmers and is providing financial support to them under the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme.

Accusing the BJP of conspiring to stop KALIA scheme, the chief minister said as soon as a new government is formed in the state, farmers will be given Rs 10,000 each at one go.

He also alleged that the BJP led central government has stopped scholarships of Scheduled Caste students and allowances of nearly 20 lakh BPL people in Odisha.&nbsp;

Known as a soft and suave kind of politician, BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday came down heavily on the BJP dubbing it "anti-poor" and cautioning the saffron party that its "jumla" will not work in Odisha.

Known as a soft and suave kind of politician, BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday came down heavily on the BJP dubbing it "anti-poor" and cautioning the saffron party that its "jumla" will not work in Odisha. Patnaik said this at election meetings in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts where polling to be held in third and fourth phase on April 23 and April 19 respectively. "BJP government is anti-poor. It suddenly realised that poor people need to be given cheap rations only three days ago. The realisation came after the BJP understood that it is facing defeat in the first phase of polls in Odisha," Patnaik claimed. Senior BJP leader and Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said the party if voted to power in the state, will provide 5 kg of rice, half a kg of pulse and half a kg of salt at Re 1 to the poor people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a public meeting in Sambalpur in Odisha Tuesday also referred to this promise. Seeking a reply from the BJP as to why it did not announce such provisions during the last five years, Patnaik said, "This Jumlawaji (propaganda) will not work in Odisha. The BJP's announcement of sops for the poor during polls clearly exposed its intentions." Patnaik also lambasted the BJP for putting the common people in trouble by implementing demonetisation and GST, raising the price of petrol, diesel and cooking gas. "The poor people become poorer due to demonetisation while small traders suffered a lot due to GST," he said. Patnaik said the BJD government is committed to the poor farmers and is providing financial support to them under the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme. Accusing the BJP of conspiring to stop KALIA scheme, the chief minister said as soon as a new government is formed in the state, farmers will be given Rs 10,000 each at one go. He also alleged that the BJP led central government has stopped scholarships of Scheduled Caste students and allowances of nearly 20 lakh BPL people in Odisha.

BJP announces sops for poor after realising defeat: Patnaik

Over 76.93 lakh voters will on Thursday decide the fate of 279 candidates, including Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Jual Oram, in the second phase of polls for five Lok Sabha and 35 assembly seats in Odisha.

Out of the total electorate of 76,93,123, there are 37,47,493 women voters. At least 605 electors belong to the third gender.

Preparations for the second phase of polls have reached the final stage and necessary steps have been taken to ensure free, fair and peaceful voting to be held in 9,117 booths, said Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Surendra Kumar.

Polling will be held in Aska, Kandhamal, Sundergarh, Bargarh and Bolangir Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 assembly segments under them. The polling staff have reached the booths in time, he said.

Over 60,000 polling personnel have been deployed to conduct the second phase, Kumar said, adding, 8,700 vehicles will be used for their transportation.

"For the first time in the state, the vehicles of all sector officers are provided with GPS tracking facilities to ensure proper monitoring," the CEO said.

Out of the total number of 9,117 booths, 3,701 have been identified as critical, and arrangements have been made for deployment of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) in 739 booths, he said.

Similarly, steps have been taken for webcasting in 883 booths, providing CCTV in 623 booths and engaging 892 micro-observers, Kumar said. Videography will be conducted in 331 places.

As some areas in Kandhamal, Bolangir and Bargarh are Maoist-affected, security has been heightened to ensure smooth conduct of polls in those pockets, a senior police officer said.

"Steps were taken for intensifying combing operations, patrolling and flag march in these areas," he said.

While CAPF have been deployed in the critical and sensitive booths, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Special Operation Group (SOG) and District Volunteer Force (DVF) personnel have been asked to intensify anti-Naxal operations in several areas, the officer said.

Paramilitary forces, police, flying squads, static surveillance teams, poll observers, videography teams and excise sleuths will also be deployed in the constituencies.

In order to assist differently-abled voters, vehicles will be deployed to transport them to polling stations, while wheelchairs and volunteers are also being made available to help them cast votes in the stations.

The voters include a total of 1,08,458 differently abled persons, and as many as 17,882 volunteers have been engaged to assist them, the CEO said.

On the basis of feedback received from the first phase of polls held on April 11, arrangements have been made for providing tents and chairs in the booths, in order to give respite to the voters from scorching heat, he said.

The second phase of polls will decide the fate of a total of 279 candidates. There are 35 hopefuls, including five women, in five Lok Sabha constituencies, and 244 candidates, 25 of them women, in 35 assembly seats.

Prominent among the contestants in the second phase is chief minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik, contesting from his home turf Hinjili in Ganjam district and Bijepur in Bargarh.

Among others, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram of the BJP, BJD's Rajya Sabha MPs Prasanna Acharya and Achyut Samant, BJP nominee and three-time MP Kharabela Swain are in the fray in the Lok Sabha polls.

In addition, senior Congress leader Narasingha Mishra is in the fray from the Bolangir Assembly seat, while BJP legislature party leader K V Singhdeo is contesting from the Patnagarh Assembly seat.

Lok Sabha and assembly elections are being held simultaneously in Odisha in four phases.

While the first phase of polling was held on April 11, the remaining phases are scheduled for Thursday, April 23 and 29. Counting of votes will be held on May 23. 
There are 21 Lok Sabha and 147 assembly seats in the state.

Meanwhile, repolling will also be held on Thursday in two polling stations located in Malkangiri (ST) and Berhampur Assembly constituencies, following reports of glitches in the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the first phase of polling.

Over 76.93 lakh voters will on Thursday decide the fate of 279 candidates, including Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Jual Oram, in the second phase of polls for five Lok Sabha and 35 assembly seats in Odisha.

Over 76.93 lakh voters will on Thursday decide the fate of 279 candidates, including Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union minister Jual Oram, in the second phase of polls for five Lok Sabha and 35 assembly seats in Odisha. Out of the total electorate of 76,93,123, there are 37,47,493 women voters. At least 605 electors belong to the third gender. Preparations for the second phase of polls have reached the final stage and necessary steps have been taken to ensure free, fair and peaceful voting to be held in 9,117 booths, said Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Surendra Kumar. Polling will be held in Aska, Kandhamal, Sundergarh, Bargarh and Bolangir Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 assembly segments under them. The polling staff have reached the booths in time, he said. Over 60,000 polling personnel have been deployed to conduct the second phase, Kumar said, adding, 8,700 vehicles will be used for their transportation. "For the first time in the state, the vehicles of all sector officers are provided with GPS tracking facilities to ensure proper monitoring," the CEO said. Out of the total number of 9,117 booths, 3,701 have been identified as critical, and arrangements have been made for deployment of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) in 739 booths, he said. Similarly, steps have been taken for webcasting in 883 booths, providing CCTV in 623 booths and engaging 892 micro-observers, Kumar said. Videography will be conducted in 331 places. As some areas in Kandhamal, Bolangir and Bargarh are Maoist-affected, security has been heightened to ensure smooth conduct of polls in those pockets, a senior police officer said. "Steps were taken for intensifying combing operations, patrolling and flag march in these areas," he said. While CAPF have been deployed in the critical and sensitive booths, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Special Operation Group (SOG) and District Volunteer Force (DVF) personnel have been asked to intensify anti-Naxal operations in several areas, the officer said. Paramilitary forces, police, flying squads, static surveillance teams, poll observers, videography teams and excise sleuths will also be deployed in the constituencies. In order to assist differently-abled voters, vehicles will be deployed to transport them to polling stations, while wheelchairs and volunteers are also being made available to help them cast votes in the stations. The voters include a total of 1,08,458 differently abled persons, and as many as 17,882 volunteers have been engaged to assist them, the CEO said. On the basis of feedback received from the first phase of polls held on April 11, arrangements have been made for providing tents and chairs in the booths, in order to give respite to the voters from scorching heat, he said. The second phase of polls will decide the fate of a total of 279 candidates. There are 35 hopefuls, including five women, in five Lok Sabha constituencies, and 244 candidates, 25 of them women, in 35 assembly seats. Prominent among the contestants in the second phase is chief minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik, contesting from his home turf Hinjili in Ganjam district and Bijepur in Bargarh. Among others, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram of the BJP, BJD's Rajya Sabha MPs Prasanna Acharya and Achyut Samant, BJP nominee and three-time MP Kharabela Swain are in the fray in the Lok Sabha polls. In addition, senior Congress leader Narasingha Mishra is in the fray from the Bolangir Assembly seat, while BJP legislature party leader K V Singhdeo is contesting from the Patnagarh Assembly seat. Lok Sabha and assembly elections are being held simultaneously in Odisha in four phases. While the first phase of polling was held on April 11, the remaining phases are scheduled for Thursday, April 23 and 29. Counting of votes will be held on May 23. There are 21 Lok Sabha and 147 assembly seats in the state. Meanwhile, repolling will also be held on Thursday in two polling stations located in Malkangiri (ST) and Berhampur Assembly constituencies, following reports of glitches in the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) during the first phase of polling.

Odisha gears up for second phase of Lok Sabha, assembly polls

Ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the richest among the 244 candidates contesting the assembly elections, in the 2nd phase, scheduled on April 18, a report released by Odisha Election Watch said Monday.

The Odisha Election Watch is a part of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

"Of the 244 candidates in the fray for the 35 assembly segments, 70 are crorepatis," said Odisha Election Watch Convenor Ranjan Mohanty, adding that 13 candidates have assets worth Rs. 5 crore and above, and 24 others have assets between Rs. 2 crore and Rs 5 crore.

While Mr Patnaik, who is contesting from two assembly segments, Hinjili and Bijepur, tops the list of rich candidates with total assets worth Rs. 63 crore, BJP candidate KV Singhdeo contesting from Patnagarh segment in Bolangir district stands second with total assets worth Rs 37 crore, the report said.

BJD's Jharsuguda candidate, Naba Kishore Das, is in the third place with total assets worth Rs 33 crore, it said.

Mr Das is followed by BJD candidate Saroj Kumar Meher of Patnagarh seat with total assets worth Rs 31 crore.

Other rich candidates are BJP's Bijay Kumar Swain (Rs. 15 cr), BJD's Arkesh Narayan Singhdeo (Rs. 15 crore), BJD's Nandini Devi (Rs. 11 crore), BJP's Dinesh Jain (Rs. 8 cr), BJP's Pitamber Acharya (Rs. 7 crore) and BJD's Kishore Kumar Mohanty (Rs. 7 crore), the report added.

BSP candidate Narayan Versa contesting from Bhatli assembly segment only has Rs. 8,044.

Incidentally, KV Singhdeo's wife Sangeeta Singhdeo was also on the top of the list of candidates for the Lok Sabha with assets worth Rs 37 crore.

 
Of the 35 candidates contesting for five Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of the elections, 11 are crorepatis, he said.

Ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the richest among the 244 candidates contesting the assembly elections, in the 2nd phase, scheduled on April 18, a report released by Odisha Election Watch said Monday.

Ruling BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the richest among the 244 candidates contesting the assembly elections, in the 2nd phase, scheduled on April 18, a report released by Odisha Election Watch said Monday. The Odisha Election Watch is a part of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR). "Of the 244 candidates in the fray for the 35 assembly segments, 70 are crorepatis," said Odisha Election Watch Convenor Ranjan Mohanty, adding that 13 candidates have assets worth Rs. 5 crore and above, and 24 others have assets between Rs. 2 crore and Rs 5 crore. While Mr Patnaik, who is contesting from two assembly segments, Hinjili and Bijepur, tops the list of rich candidates with total assets worth Rs. 63 crore, BJP candidate KV Singhdeo contesting from Patnagarh segment in Bolangir district stands second with total assets worth Rs 37 crore, the report said. BJD's Jharsuguda candidate, Naba Kishore Das, is in the third place with total assets worth Rs 33 crore, it said. Mr Das is followed by BJD candidate Saroj Kumar Meher of Patnagarh seat with total assets worth Rs 31 crore. Other rich candidates are BJP's Bijay Kumar Swain (Rs. 15 cr), BJD's Arkesh Narayan Singhdeo (Rs. 15 crore), BJD's Nandini Devi (Rs. 11 crore), BJP's Dinesh Jain (Rs. 8 cr), BJP's Pitamber Acharya (Rs. 7 crore) and BJD's Kishore Kumar Mohanty (Rs. 7 crore), the report added. BSP candidate Narayan Versa contesting from Bhatli assembly segment only has Rs. 8,044. Incidentally, KV Singhdeo's wife Sangeeta Singhdeo was also on the top of the list of candidates for the Lok Sabha with assets worth Rs 37 crore. Of the 35 candidates contesting for five Lok Sabha seats in the second phase of the elections, 11 are crorepatis, he said.

Naveen Patnaik richest candidate contesting second phase of Odisha polls

Union Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-dharmendra-pradhan-rolls-out-slew-of-projects-worth-over-1524-crore-200608&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiAlqev3tHhAhXRW3wKHUYSCukQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1E6i3eD-6-rFBNBXOGhBg_">Dharmendra Pradhan</a> on Monday accused Odisha Chief Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-after-19-years-of-rule-in-odisha-naveen-patnaik-cant-talk-in-odia-amit-shah-209838&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiju9zX3tHhAhWj7HMBHRfoDG8QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2zfxNhXNb0JfufbgjwowVM">Naveen Patnaik </a>of "shedding crocodile tears" on the murder of BJP worker in Khordha district yesterday and appealed to people to respond to the killing by ballot and not bullet.&nbsp;

Speaking on the murder of BJP Khordha Mandal president Manguli Jena, Pradhan said: "We have to respond to his death not by a bullet, but by ballot. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Babu is shedding crocodile tears.&nbsp;

Incidents like this in a democracy is condemnable."Jena was allegedly shot dead by two unidentified bike-borne miscreants near the district party office, the police had said on Sunday.

Patnaik had condemned the murder and said, "I strongly condemn the heinous murder that has taken place in Khordha. I have requested the Election Commissioner to direct the police to take strict action against those involved."

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday accused Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of "shedding crocodile tears" on the murder of BJP worker in Khordha district yesterday and appealed to people to respond to the killing by ballot and not bullet.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday accused Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of "shedding crocodile tears" on the murder of BJP worker in Khordha district yesterday and appealed to people to respond to the killing by ballot and not bullet. Speaking on the murder of BJP Khordha Mandal president Manguli Jena, Pradhan said: "We have to respond to his death not by a bullet, but by ballot. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Babu is shedding crocodile tears. Incidents like this in a democracy is condemnable."Jena was allegedly shot dead by two unidentified bike-borne miscreants near the district party office, the police had said on Sunday. Patnaik had condemned the murder and said, "I strongly condemn the heinous murder that has taken place in Khordha. I have requested the Election Commissioner to direct the police to take strict action against those involved."

Odisha: Pradhan accuses CM of shedding crocodile tears on BJP worker's killing

Hitting out at the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-scrap-article-370-introduce-nrc-across-country-amit-shah-209607">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah</a> said Friday the state is rich in natural resources, but its people continue to remain poor under the Naveen Patnaik-led dispensation.

Addressing a rally here, Shah said the BJD rule in the state was marked by misrule and corruption.

Taking a jibe at the chief minister, Shah said, "Even after 19 years of rule in Odisha, Naveen (Patnaik) babu cannot talk to his people in Odia."

He asserted that people across the country are raising slogans in favour of the BJP.

"From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Odisha to Gujarat, people are raising slogans in favour of Narendra Modi. We can hear Modi... Modi... Chants everywhere," Shah said.

Slamming the opposition Congress, Shah said: "Rahul Baba's party ruled the country for 70 years, but could not eradicate poverty."

"The BJP-led government, on the other hand, launched an era of development in the country, marked by speedy and concrete steps to eradicate poverty," he insisted.

Sharing his plans for the tribal-dominated district, the BJP chief said a steel plant will be set up here if the saffron party is re-elected to power at the Centre.

"Under District Mineral Fund, Rs 1600 crore has been allocated to this district. If the BJP is voted to power again, all forest produces will be procured from the tribals at Minimum Support Price (MSP) and no GST will be levied on tendu leaves," Shah added.

Hitting out at the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said Friday the state is rich in natural resources, but its people continue to remain poor under the Naveen Patnaik-led dispensation.

Hitting out at the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah said Friday the state is rich in natural resources, but its people continue to remain poor under the Naveen Patnaik-led dispensation. Addressing a rally here, Shah said the BJD rule in the state was marked by misrule and corruption. Taking a jibe at the chief minister, Shah said, "Even after 19 years of rule in Odisha, Naveen (Patnaik) babu cannot talk to his people in Odia." He asserted that people across the country are raising slogans in favour of the BJP. "From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Odisha to Gujarat, people are raising slogans in favour of Narendra Modi. We can hear Modi... Modi... Chants everywhere," Shah said. Slamming the opposition Congress, Shah said: "Rahul Baba's party ruled the country for 70 years, but could not eradicate poverty." "The BJP-led government, on the other hand, launched an era of development in the country, marked by speedy and concrete steps to eradicate poverty," he insisted. Sharing his plans for the tribal-dominated district, the BJP chief said a steel plant will be set up here if the saffron party is re-elected to power at the Centre. "Under District Mineral Fund, Rs 1600 crore has been allocated to this district. If the BJP is voted to power again, all forest produces will be procured from the tribals at Minimum Support Price (MSP) and no GST will be levied on tendu leaves," Shah added.

Even after 19 years of rule in Odisha, Naveen Patnaik can't talk in Odia: Amit Shah

India Election Watch: Will Naveen Patnaik retain power in Odisha?

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced names of nine more candidates for the ensuing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-announces-list-of-100-candidates-for-odisha-assembly-polls-204777">Assembly elections in the state</a>.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has fielded Kishore Mohanty from Brajaraj Nagar while AN Singh will contest from Bolangir.

The list also includes Pradeep Behera (Loisinga), Pitam Padhi (Pottangi), PK Dishari (Lanjigarh), PC Majhi (Jharigam), Mukunda Sodi (Malkangiri), Dr R Panigrahi (Sambalpur) and Rohit Pujari (Rairakhol). So far the BJD has declared its 63 candidates who will contest the coming Assembly polls.&nbsp;

Three MPs and three MLAs have quit the BJD after being denied tickets in the Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly polls.

Odisha has 147 Assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four phases starting April 11, which will be held along with the Lok Sabha elections.

The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced names of nine more candidates for the ensuing Assembly elections in the state. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has fielded Kishore Mohanty from Brajaraj Nagar while AN Singh will contest from Bolangir.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced names of nine more candidates for the ensuing Assembly elections in the state. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has fielded Kishore Mohanty from Brajaraj Nagar while AN Singh will contest from Bolangir. The list also includes Pradeep Behera (Loisinga), Pitam Padhi (Pottangi), PK Dishari (Lanjigarh), PC Majhi (Jharigam), Mukunda Sodi (Malkangiri), Dr R Panigrahi (Sambalpur) and Rohit Pujari (Rairakhol). So far the BJD has declared its 63 candidates who will contest the coming Assembly polls. Three MPs and three MLAs have quit the BJD after being denied tickets in the Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly polls. Odisha has 147 Assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four phases starting April 11, which will be held along with the Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Naveen Patnaik announces nine more candidates for Odisha Assembly polls

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha.

Patnaik said he had come to know from media reports that Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has announced setting up of a new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), which will be formed by carving out part of the East Coast Railway's (ECoR's) Waltair division.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief said it had come as a "rude shock" to the people of the state.

"Till such (formation of new divisions) time, I would request in the interest of the people of Odisha, not to operationalise the declared South Coast Railway zone at Visakhapatnam which has been done without consultation with Odisha," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi.

Patnaik wrote the letter hours after the ruling BJD members staged a demonstration before the headquarters of the ECoR here.

At present, about 70 per cent of Odisha is under the jurisdiction of the ECoR that has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The state has the maximum resources of almost all major minerals like coal, iron ore, bauxite and manganese ore.

"With our thrust on industrialisation and Make in Odisha, we have been able to add value to these minerals within the State," Patnaik said.

The chief minister said an efficient and strong railway network with a single administrative structure within the state was necessary to maintain the impetus of growth. Currently, the major minerals like iron ore and coal are under Zonal Railways.

"My Government has also come forward to invest heavily to bridge the gap in investment in Railway Infrastructure, as in Haridaspur Paradip and Angul

Sukinda new lines. The State has provided land free of cost for Khurda Road Bolangir, Jeypore Malkangiri, Jeypore Nabarangpur Projects," he added.

"The commitment of my government to railway projects stands today in excess of Rs 5,000 crores, signifying our focus and priority to this sector," Patnaik said.

It is in this backdrop that Odisha has been asking for the reorganisation of railways in Odisha and unifying the railways in the state under one administrative zone of ECoR, Bhubaneswar, he said.

As the Centre has created the SCoR, the similar demand of Odisha may be considered likewise, Patnaik said.

"In view of our genuine concern and demand, I urge your kind intervention to declare two new Railway Divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur to unify Railways in Odisha under one administrative Zonal Headquarters of ECoR, Bhubaneswar," he added.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha. Patnaik said he had come to know from media reports that Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has announced setting up of a new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), which will be formed by carving out part of the East Coast Railway's (ECoR's) Waltair division. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief said it had come as a "rude shock" to the people of the state. "Till such (formation of new divisions) time, I would request in the interest of the people of Odisha, not to operationalise the declared South Coast Railway zone at Visakhapatnam which has been done without consultation with Odisha," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi. Patnaik wrote the letter hours after the ruling BJD members staged a demonstration before the headquarters of the ECoR here. At present, about 70 per cent of Odisha is under the jurisdiction of the ECoR that has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The state has the maximum resources of almost all major minerals like coal, iron ore, bauxite and manganese ore. "With our thrust on industrialisation and Make in Odisha, we have been able to add value to these minerals within the State," Patnaik said. The chief minister said an efficient and strong railway network with a single administrative structure within the state was necessary to maintain the impetus of growth. Currently, the major minerals like iron ore and coal are under Zonal Railways. "My Government has also come forward to invest heavily to bridge the gap in investment in Railway Infrastructure, as in Haridaspur Paradip and Angul Sukinda new lines. The State has provided land free of cost for Khurda Road Bolangir, Jeypore Malkangiri, Jeypore Nabarangpur Projects," he added. "The commitment of my government to railway projects stands today in excess of Rs 5,000 crores, signifying our focus and priority to this sector," Patnaik said. It is in this backdrop that Odisha has been asking for the reorganisation of railways in Odisha and unifying the railways in the state under one administrative zone of ECoR, Bhubaneswar, he said. As the Centre has created the SCoR, the similar demand of Odisha may be considered likewise, Patnaik said. "In view of our genuine concern and demand, I urge your kind intervention to declare two new Railway Divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur to unify Railways in Odisha under one administrative Zonal Headquarters of ECoR, Bhubaneswar," he added.

Naveen seeks PM's intervention seeking single railway zone in Odisha

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase assistance under PM-Kisan to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,000 per year.

In a letter written to the Prime Minister, Patnaik also appealed for the inclusion of landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households under the Central sector Scheme PM-KISAN.

“These categories of agricultural workers are at the bottom of the agriculture economy pyramid and they deserve special care and attention. Rural prosperity and reduction in poverty cannot be achieved without an adequate focus on these weaker sections of the populace,” the letter read.

He also cited his state’s flagship KALIA scheme and wrote, “Under KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme of State Government not only small and marginal farmers but landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households are also covered. Under KALIA scheme annual financial assistance of Rs. 10,00 is envisaged for every small and marginal farmer.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be formally launching the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme from Gorakhpur on Sunday.

Under the scheme, the central government will on the same day make the first instalment of Rs 2,000 in the bank account of beneficiary farmers. About one crore farmers are expected to receive the first instalment on Sunday.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase assistance under PM-Kisan to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,000 per year. In a letter written to the Prime Minister, Patnaik also appealed for the inclusion of landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households under the Central sector Scheme PM-KISAN.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase assistance under PM-Kisan to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,000 per year. In a letter written to the Prime Minister, Patnaik also appealed for the inclusion of landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households under the Central sector Scheme PM-KISAN. “These categories of agricultural workers are at the bottom of the agriculture economy pyramid and they deserve special care and attention. Rural prosperity and reduction in poverty cannot be achieved without an adequate focus on these weaker sections of the populace,” the letter read. He also cited his state’s flagship KALIA scheme and wrote, “Under KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme of State Government not only small and marginal farmers but landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households are also covered. Under KALIA scheme annual financial assistance of Rs. 10,00 is envisaged for every small and marginal farmer.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be formally launching the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme from Gorakhpur on Sunday. Under the scheme, the central government will on the same day make the first instalment of Rs 2,000 in the bank account of beneficiary farmers. About one crore farmers are expected to receive the first instalment on Sunday.

Naveen Patnaik urges PM Modi to increase PM-KISAN aid to Rs 10,000

Odisha Government on Monday inaugurated its first high-performance centre in the state for realizing its dream of becoming a global sports destination.

With intent to provide quality sport in the State, this high-performance centre is established by professional shooter Abhinav Bindra's 'Abhinav Futuristics Pvt&nbsp;Ltd'&nbsp;with the help of Government of Odisha.

The centre was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the presence of Bindra.

Speaking about the inauguration, Chief Minister Patnaik said, "the inauguration of this HPC will encourage athletes to use Sports Science to enhance their performance. Coaching has always been good in Odisha, but now with best available technology, our athletes will have access to a state-of-the-art, world-class sports medicine and rehab setup.''

The founder of the ABTP Centre, Abhinav Bindra stated, “The ABTP Centre’s have been made with the aim of encouraging athletes to use Sports Science to add value to their training routine. With cutting edge technology from all over the world in physiology, biomechanics, functional training and recovery we aspire to take the best care of the athletes with us."

The centre’s services would include performance enhancement, injury prevention, and management, biomechanics, physiology testing and training, recovery, as well as strength and conditioning training.

The ABTP Centre will be open to athletes from February, 19th.&nbsp;

Odisha Government on Monday inaugurated its first high-performance centre in the state for realizing its dream of becoming a global sports destination. With intent to provide quality sport in the State, this high-performance centre is established by professional shooter Abhinav Bindra's 'Abhinav Futuristics Pvt Ltd' with the help of Government of Odisha.

Odisha Government on Monday inaugurated its first high-performance centre in the state for realizing its dream of becoming a global sports destination. With intent to provide quality sport in the State, this high-performance centre is established by professional shooter Abhinav Bindra's 'Abhinav Futuristics Pvt Ltd' with the help of Government of Odisha. The centre was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the presence of Bindra. Speaking about the inauguration, Chief Minister Patnaik said, "the inauguration of this HPC will encourage athletes to use Sports Science to enhance their performance. Coaching has always been good in Odisha, but now with best available technology, our athletes will have access to a state-of-the-art, world-class sports medicine and rehab setup.'' The founder of the ABTP Centre, Abhinav Bindra stated, “The ABTP Centre’s have been made with the aim of encouraging athletes to use Sports Science to add value to their training routine. With cutting edge technology from all over the world in physiology, biomechanics, functional training and recovery we aspire to take the best care of the athletes with us." The centre’s services would include performance enhancement, injury prevention, and management, biomechanics, physiology testing and training, recovery, as well as strength and conditioning training. The ABTP Centre will be open to athletes from February, 19th.

Odisha: State’s first high-performance centre inaugurated

Noted writer-filmmaker Gita Mehta who is also the sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declined the Padma Shri award citing the timing of the awards, which comes just ahead of the general elections in India, might be misconstrued.

Mehta, 76, was selected for the coveted honour in the category Literature and Education.

“I am deeply honoured that the Government of India should think me worthy of a Padma Shri but with great regret I feel I must decline as there is a general election looming and the timing of the award might be misconstrued, causing embarrassment both to the Government and myself, which I would much regret,” Mehta said in a press note issued by her today.

Meanwhile, when asked, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik refused to comment specifically but congratulating all those who have been conferred with the honour.

“I congratulate all the Odias who got the Padma award,” he said after participating in a function to mark the Republic Day.Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday announced the name of 112 recipients of the Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country on the eve of the country`s 70th Republic Day.

Mehta has authored books like Raj (1989), Snakes and Ladders: Glimpses of Modern India (1997) and Eternal Ganesha: From Birth to Rebirth (2006). She has also produced and directed 14 documentaries. She had also served as a TV war correspondent for US TV network NBC briefly.

Mehta is married to US-based publisher Sonny Mehta. The Padma awards are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, the second, third and fourth highest civilian awards of the country respectively, only after Bharat Ratna.

This year`s awardees comprise four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri recipients.

Noted writer-filmmaker Gita Mehta who is also the sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declined the Padma Shri award citing the timing of the awards, which comes just ahead of the general elections in India, might be misconstrued.

Noted writer-filmmaker Gita Mehta who is also the sister of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declined the Padma Shri award citing the timing of the awards, which comes just ahead of the general elections in India, might be misconstrued. Mehta, 76, was selected for the coveted honour in the category Literature and Education. “I am deeply honoured that the Government of India should think me worthy of a Padma Shri but with great regret I feel I must decline as there is a general election looming and the timing of the award might be misconstrued, causing embarrassment both to the Government and myself, which I would much regret,” Mehta said in a press note issued by her today. Meanwhile, when asked, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik refused to comment specifically but congratulating all those who have been conferred with the honour. “I congratulate all the Odias who got the Padma award,” he said after participating in a function to mark the Republic Day.Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday announced the name of 112 recipients of the Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country on the eve of the country`s 70th Republic Day. Mehta has authored books like Raj (1989), Snakes and Ladders: Glimpses of Modern India (1997) and Eternal Ganesha: From Birth to Rebirth (2006). She has also produced and directed 14 documentaries. She had also served as a TV war correspondent for US TV network NBC briefly. Mehta is married to US-based publisher Sonny Mehta. The Padma awards are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, the second, third and fourth highest civilian awards of the country respectively, only after Bharat Ratna. This year`s awardees comprise four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri recipients.

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s sister Gita Mehta turns down Padma Shri

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday made it clear that his BJD will not be a part of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).

Patnaik said as part of his party's policy, the BJD will continue to maintain equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress.

"We will continue with our policy of equidistance from the BJP and the Congress," he said.

"I want to clarify that as far as the Mahagathbandhan is concerned, the Biju Janata Dal is not a part of it," Patnaik told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting here.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday made it clear that his BJD will not be a part of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). Patnaik said as part of his party's policy, the BJD will continue to maintain equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday made it clear that his BJD will not be a part of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). Patnaik said as part of his party's policy, the BJD will continue to maintain equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress. "We will continue with our policy of equidistance from the BJP and the Congress," he said. "I want to clarify that as far as the Mahagathbandhan is concerned, the Biju Janata Dal is not a part of it," Patnaik told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting here.

BJD not to be part of Mahagathbandhan: Naveen Patnaik

Telangana&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/initiated-talks-to-bring-in-change-in-country-kcr-after-meeting-odisha-cm-naveen-patnaik-186039">Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao</a> Sunday met his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik and emphasised a "dire need" for the unification of regional parties to provide an alternative to the Congress and the BJP ahead of the 2019 general elections.

The meeting between the two leaders assumed significance amid talks about efforts on the formation of a new political front of like-minded, non-BJP and non-Congress parties to take on the national ones in the upcoming polls.

"I can say certainly that there is a dire need for unification of regional parties in the country. We strongly believe that there has to be an alternative to the Congress and the BJP," Rao told reporters after meeting BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik here.

Both the chief ministers had a detailed discussion on national issues, including the need for "better friendship among regional parties", Patnaik said.

"This is just the beginning of a dialogue... We will meet again and discuss how to take things forward," Rao said.&nbsp;

After an impressive victory of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in the state assembly poll, Rao has embarked on a journey to bring together anti-Congress and anti-BJP parties for next year's Lok Sabha polls.

The TRS chief is scheduled to meet West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Monday.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes to Hyderabad and says the TRS is the "B team" of the Congress, its president Rahul Gandhi claim that the TRS president is the "B team" of the BJP, Rao said, adding, "Let me tell you, we are our own team."

Senior Congress leader and the party in-charge for Telangana,&nbsp; 
Ramachandra Khuntia alleged that Rao's meeting with Patnaik is part of a game plan to weaken the proposed "Mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) among non-BJP parties.

The Telangana CM has been acting at the behest of the saffron party and the NDA to dilute efforts of like-minded, non-BJP parties for formation of a grand alliance before the general elections, Khuntia claimed.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said Rao's visit will have no impact on the BJP's electoral prospects as "zero added to zero will have no value".&nbsp;

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Sunday met his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik and emphasised a "dire need" for the unification of regional parties to provide an alternative to the Congress and the BJP ahead of the 2019 general elections.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao Sunday met his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik and emphasised a "dire need" for the unification of regional parties to provide an alternative to the Congress and the BJP ahead of the 2019 general elections. The meeting between the two leaders assumed significance amid talks about efforts on the formation of a new political front of like-minded, non-BJP and non-Congress parties to take on the national ones in the upcoming polls. "I can say certainly that there is a dire need for unification of regional parties in the country. We strongly believe that there has to be an alternative to the Congress and the BJP," Rao told reporters after meeting BJD president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik here. Both the chief ministers had a detailed discussion on national issues, including the need for "better friendship among regional parties", Patnaik said. "This is just the beginning of a dialogue... We will meet again and discuss how to take things forward," Rao said. After an impressive victory of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in the state assembly poll, Rao has embarked on a journey to bring together anti-Congress and anti-BJP parties for next year's Lok Sabha polls. The TRS chief is scheduled to meet West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Monday. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes to Hyderabad and says the TRS is the "B team" of the Congress, its president Rahul Gandhi claim that the TRS president is the "B team" of the BJP, Rao said, adding, "Let me tell you, we are our own team." Senior Congress leader and the party in-charge for Telangana, Ramachandra Khuntia alleged that Rao's meeting with Patnaik is part of a game plan to weaken the proposed "Mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance) among non-BJP parties. The Telangana CM has been acting at the behest of the saffron party and the NDA to dilute efforts of like-minded, non-BJP parties for formation of a grand alliance before the general elections, Khuntia claimed. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said Rao's visit will have no impact on the BJP's electoral prospects as "zero added to zero will have no value".

Regional parties need to provide alternative to BJP, Congress in 2019: KCR

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao met with his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik on Sunday hinting at commencing the talks for the formation of a 'third front'&nbsp;in the country.

After the meeting, Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao said that the two leaders have initiated talks (that needs to be carried forward) to bring in a change in the country.

He also added that the regional parties need to unite as the country needs a strong alternative to Congress and BJP.

"Country needs a change for which dialogue has begun, we are doing our part but nothing concrete has emerged. We have just begun the dialogue; we will meet again to discuss how to take things forward", KCR said.

"We need to talk to more people across the nation. There is a dire need for the unification of regional parties as there is a strong need for an alternative to Congress and BJP, " he added.

Speaking after the meeting Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said, "We discussed several things including friendship of like-minded parties. We have not thought that (Parliament elections) far. He came to Odisha to offer thanks to Lord Jagannath for his tremendous victory".&nbsp;

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Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik after meeting with Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao: We discussed several things including friendship of like-minded parties. We’ve not thought that (Parliament elections) far. He came to Odisha to offer thanks to Lord Jagannath for his tremendous victory <a href="https://t.co/t2dbIzhHSc">pic.twitter.com/t2dbIzhHSc</a>
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Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao is on a four-day visit to meet various political leaders to garner support for his proposed non-BJP and non-Congress front ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

(With inputs from agencies)

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao met with his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik on Sunday hinting at commencing the talks for the formation of a 'third front' in the country.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao met with his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik on Sunday hinting at commencing the talks for the formation of a 'third front' in the country. After the meeting, Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao said that the two leaders have initiated talks (that needs to be carried forward) to bring in a change in the country. He also added that the regional parties need to unite as the country needs a strong alternative to Congress and BJP. "Country needs a change for which dialogue has begun, we are doing our part but nothing concrete has emerged. We have just begun the dialogue; we will meet again to discuss how to take things forward", KCR said. "We need to talk to more people across the nation. There is a dire need for the unification of regional parties as there is a strong need for an alternative to Congress and BJP, " he added. Speaking after the meeting Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik said, "We discussed several things including friendship of like-minded parties. We have not thought that (Parliament elections) far. He came to Odisha to offer thanks to Lord Jagannath for his tremendous victory". Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik after meeting with Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao: We discussed several things including friendship of like-minded parties. We’ve not thought that (Parliament elections) far. He came to Odisha to offer thanks to Lord Jagannath for his tremendous victory pic.twitter.com/t2dbIzhHSc — ANI (@ANI) December 23, 2018 × Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao after meeting with Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik: We need to talk to more people across the nation. There’s a dire need for the unification of regional parties as there’s a strong need for an alternative to Congress and BJP. pic.twitter.com/eQWw21lsWC — ANI (@ANI) December 23, 2018 × Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao is on a four-day visit to meet various political leaders to garner support for his proposed non-BJP and non-Congress front ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Initiated talks to bring change in country: KCR after meeting Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik

The Centre has assured that it would release the assistance for damage inflicted by cyclone 'Titli' and subsequent flood and landslides in 17 districts of the state, chief minister Naveen Patnaik said Saturday.

The assurance was given by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh when Patnaik spoke to him over the phone Saturday.

"The Union Home Minister has assured Chief Minister to release the assistance immediately," a release issued by the Chief Minister's Office said.

On December 13, Patnaik, in a letter to Singh, had demanded the immediate release of central assistance for the devastation caused by the cyclone to Odisha.

Patnaik said "Titli", which lashed Odisha in October 2018 and caused the subsequent flood and landslides, had severely affected a vast population of about 60.31 lakh in 128 blocks spread over 17 districts.

The state government had earlier submitted a memorandum to the Centre seeking the assistance of Rs 2,023.13 crore against total requirement of Rs 2,779.32 crore for relief and restoration work.

Patnaik had also written a letter to the prime minister on October 18 requesting for release of an interim assistance of Rs 1,000 crore pending the final decision of the High-Level Committee headed by Rajnath Singh on the memorandum which was initially submitted by the state government in October.

Meanwhile, the inter-ministerial central team has already made an on-the-spot assessment of the damage during the first week of November 2018.

The state urgently required assistance from National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) as an amount of Rs 1,689.13 crore was released for relief and restoration work exhausting the entire amount available in State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).&nbsp;

The Centre has assured that it would release the assistance for damage inflicted by cyclone 'Titli' and subsequent flood and landslides in 17 districts of the state, chief minister Naveen Patnaik said Saturday.

The Centre has assured that it would release the assistance for damage inflicted by cyclone 'Titli' and subsequent flood and landslides in 17 districts of the state, chief minister Naveen Patnaik said Saturday. The assurance was given by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh when Patnaik spoke to him over the phone Saturday. "The Union Home Minister has assured Chief Minister to release the assistance immediately," a release issued by the Chief Minister's Office said. On December 13, Patnaik, in a letter to Singh, had demanded the immediate release of central assistance for the devastation caused by the cyclone to Odisha. Patnaik said "Titli", which lashed Odisha in October 2018 and caused the subsequent flood and landslides, had severely affected a vast population of about 60.31 lakh in 128 blocks spread over 17 districts. The state government had earlier submitted a memorandum to the Centre seeking the assistance of Rs 2,023.13 crore against total requirement of Rs 2,779.32 crore for relief and restoration work. Patnaik had also written a letter to the prime minister on October 18 requesting for release of an interim assistance of Rs 1,000 crore pending the final decision of the High-Level Committee headed by Rajnath Singh on the memorandum which was initially submitted by the state government in October. Meanwhile, the inter-ministerial central team has already made an on-the-spot assessment of the damage during the first week of November 2018. The state urgently required assistance from National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) as an amount of Rs 1,689.13 crore was released for relief and restoration work exhausting the entire amount available in State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).

'Titli' cyclone assistance to Odisha soon: Naveen Patnaik

Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha is all geared up for the grand opening ceremony of Hockey World Cup 2018. The opening ceremony will carry a central message of "oneness".

With glitz and glamour, Hockey World Cup 2018 begins

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Assembly, seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament.

"I initiate the discussion on this historic motion for providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and the Parliament," Patnaik said, while moving the resolution for the consideration of the House.

Stating that Odisha must show its commitment and resolve to the entire country that it is the land where women are truly empowered and truly involved in nation-building, the chief minister appealed to all the lawmakers to extend their support and unanimously adopt the resolution.

He said the empowerment of women is very close to his heart. "No household, no society, no state, no country has ever moved forward without empowering its women."

Patnaik said initiatives like girls' education, loans at 1 per cent interest rate, hostels for 5 lakh tribal girls, provision of&nbsp;Rs.&nbsp;7 lakh for women under its healthcare insurance scheme and land rights for women were among the many initiatives his government had taken to improve their socio-economic condition.

In 1992, Patnaik said, his legendary father and former chief minister, Biju Patnaik, had brought women to the realm of political decision-making by providing 33 per cent reservation for them in local bodies.<iframe data-google-container-id="6" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"The principle of gender equality is enshrined in our Constitution. Biju Babu was the true champion of women's empowerment," he said.

"I am confident that the mothers and sisters who run their household so efficiently will run the panchayat samiti and zilla parishad with equal competence," Patnaik quoted his father as saying, while making a provision of 33 per cent reservation for women in the three-tier Panchayati Raj system and urban local body.

"My government has further enhanced it (reservation for women in panchayat and ULBs) to 50 per cent. In fact, its heartening to know that, in real numbers, it's much more than 50 per cent," Patnaik said.

"This bold, aspirational and new Odisha has voices which must be heard across panchayats, legislative assemblies and the Parliament," he added.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Assembly, seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Assembly, seeking 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament. "I initiate the discussion on this historic motion for providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative assemblies and the Parliament," Patnaik said, while moving the resolution for the consideration of the House. Stating that Odisha must show its commitment and resolve to the entire country that it is the land where women are truly empowered and truly involved in nation-building, the chief minister appealed to all the lawmakers to extend their support and unanimously adopt the resolution. He said the empowerment of women is very close to his heart. "No household, no society, no state, no country has ever moved forward without empowering its women." Patnaik said initiatives like girls' education, loans at 1 per cent interest rate, hostels for 5 lakh tribal girls, provision of Rs. 7 lakh for women under its healthcare insurance scheme and land rights for women were among the many initiatives his government had taken to improve their socio-economic condition. In 1992, Patnaik said, his legendary father and former chief minister, Biju Patnaik, had brought women to the realm of political decision-making by providing 33 per cent reservation for them in local bodies. "The principle of gender equality is enshrined in our Constitution. Biju Babu was the true champion of women's empowerment," he said. "I am confident that the mothers and sisters who run their household so efficiently will run the panchayat samiti and zilla parishad with equal competence," Patnaik quoted his father as saying, while making a provision of 33 per cent reservation for women in the three-tier Panchayati Raj system and urban local body. "My government has further enhanced it (reservation for women in panchayat and ULBs) to 50 per cent. In fact, its heartening to know that, in real numbers, it's much more than 50 per cent," Patnaik said. "This bold, aspirational and new Odisha has voices which must be heard across panchayats, legislative assemblies and the Parliament," he added.

Naveen Patnaik moves resolution for 33% women reservation in parliament

The Hockey World Cup 2018 will be held in India's Odisha from November 28 and the state chief minister Naveen Patnaik is making sure to promote the game in every way possible. &nbsp;

With an aim to attract maximum audience during the 19-day tournament, Patnaik purchased the first ticket for the opening ceremony of the Men's Hockey World Cup and paid Rs. 500 for it, officials said.

Hockey India CEO Elena Norman handed over the ticket to Patnaik for the ceremony that will be held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Patnaik also shared the photograph of the ticket on his official Twitter handle.&nbsp;A second ceremony will be held at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on November 28.

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Delighted to receive the first ticket of Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2018 opening ceremony from <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a>. Hope fans from all over the world are ready to catch the euphoria of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> and explore <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha</a>. Looking forward to welcome you all in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bhubaneswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bhubaneswar</a> <a href="https://t.co/M5DebJvDLD">pic.twitter.com/M5DebJvDLD</a>
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha/status/1064484213036998661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Hockey India announced on Sunday that online ticket sale for the ceremony of Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018 will begin from Tuesday.&nbsp;

It has said the online ticket sales will go live at 12 noon the same day.

Around 10,500 tickets are likely to be sold for the inaugural ceremony in Bhubaneswar and 30,000 tickets for the November 28 event, sources said.

The Hockey World Cup 2018 will be held in India's Odisha from November 28 and the state chief minister Naveen Patnaik is making sure to promote the game in every way possible.

The Hockey World Cup 2018 will be held in India's Odisha from November 28 and the state chief minister Naveen Patnaik is making sure to promote the game in every way possible. With an aim to attract maximum audience during the 19-day tournament, Patnaik purchased the first ticket for the opening ceremony of the Men's Hockey World Cup and paid Rs. 500 for it, officials said. Hockey India CEO Elena Norman handed over the ticket to Patnaik for the ceremony that will be held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Patnaik also shared the photograph of the ticket on his official Twitter handle. A second ceremony will be held at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on November 28. Delighted to receive the first ticket of Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2018 opening ceremony from @TheHockeyIndia. Hope fans from all over the world are ready to catch the euphoria of #HWC2018 and explore #Odisha. Looking forward to welcome you all in #Bhubaneswar pic.twitter.com/M5DebJvDLD — Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) November 19, 2018 × Hockey India announced on Sunday that online ticket sale for the ceremony of Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018 will begin from Tuesday. It has said the online ticket sales will go live at 12 noon the same day. Around 10,500 tickets are likely to be sold for the inaugural ceremony in Bhubaneswar and 30,000 tickets for the November 28 event, sources said.

Hockey World Cup: Odisha CM buys opening event ticket, shares photo on Twitter

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Saturday said the standing crops, roads and trees suffered the maximum damage in cyclone Titli and the resultant flood in the state.

After conducting an aerial survey of Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada districts, the chief minister also said he would announce a package for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/12-feared-dead-four-missing-in-landslide-in-titli-hit-odisha-171265">flood-hit people</a>.

"The maximum damage has been done to the agricultural crop, the roads and the trees. The relief work is going on at top speed as well as the restoration work," Patnaik told reporters after conducting the aerial survey.

"I shall convene a meeting on the flood situation Saturday evening and announce a package for the affected people," he added.

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Relief work&amp;restoration are underway. I shall have a meeting this evening in Bhubaneshwar after which I will announce a package for flood-affected people.Once we do a detailed research into this then we will decide how much fund to ask from Centre: Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Titli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Titli</a> <a href="https://t.co/mERRDVVxfF">pic.twitter.com/mERRDVVxfF</a>
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According to the chief minister's instruction, a three-member ministerial committee also visited the cyclone and flood-hit districts of Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada and Kandhamal.

"Once we have done a detailed research into it (the damage), we will decide how much to ask for," Patnaik said, replying to a question on whether the state will seek any financial assistance from the Centre.

Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Puri, Kandhamal and Kendrapara districts were hit by the flood, officials said, adding that Ganjam was categorised as the "worst affected".&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Saturday said the standing crops, roads and trees suffered the maximum damage in cyclone Titli and the resultant flood in the state.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Saturday said the standing crops, roads and trees suffered the maximum damage in cyclone Titli and the resultant flood in the state. After conducting an aerial survey of Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada districts, the chief minister also said he would announce a package for the flood-hit people. "The maximum damage has been done to the agricultural crop, the roads and the trees. The relief work is going on at top speed as well as the restoration work," Patnaik told reporters after conducting the aerial survey. "I shall convene a meeting on the flood situation Saturday evening and announce a package for the affected people," he added. Relief work&restoration are underway. I shall have a meeting this evening in Bhubaneshwar after which I will announce a package for flood-affected people.Once we do a detailed research into this then we will decide how much fund to ask from Centre: Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik #Titli pic.twitter.com/mERRDVVxfF — ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2018 × According to the chief minister's instruction, a three-member ministerial committee also visited the cyclone and flood-hit districts of Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada and Kandhamal. "Once we have done a detailed research into it (the damage), we will decide how much to ask for," Patnaik said, replying to a question on whether the state will seek any financial assistance from the Centre. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Puri, Kandhamal and Kendrapara districts were hit by the flood, officials said, adding that Ganjam was categorised as the "worst affected".

Relief work going on at top speed, to announce package for flood-hit people: CM Naveen Patnaik

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Odisha on Saturday morning and met and interacted with Anganwadi workers in Talcher.

Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

The Prime Minister will attend an event to mark the commencement of work in the Talcher Fertilizer Plant followed by a public meeting. He is also scheduled to inaugurate a new airport in Jharsugada.

"The fertilizer plant will produce natural gas and contribute to the country's energy requirements, while the airport will bring western Odisha on the country's aviation map, and facilitate regional air connectivity through the government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme," an official statement read.

During his visit, the Prime Minister will dedicate the Garjanbahal coal mines and the Jharsaguda-Barapali-Sardega rail link to the nation. He will also unveil a plaque to mark the commencement of coal production and transportation from Dulanga coal mines.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Odisha on Saturday morning and met and interacted with Anganwadi workers in Talcher. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Odisha on Saturday morning and met and interacted with Anganwadi workers in Talcher. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The Prime Minister will attend an event to mark the commencement of work in the Talcher Fertilizer Plant followed by a public meeting. He is also scheduled to inaugurate a new airport in Jharsugada. "The fertilizer plant will produce natural gas and contribute to the country's energy requirements, while the airport will bring western Odisha on the country's aviation map, and facilitate regional air connectivity through the government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme," an official statement read. During his visit, the Prime Minister will dedicate the Garjanbahal coal mines and the Jharsaguda-Barapali-Sardega rail link to the nation. He will also unveil a plaque to mark the commencement of coal production and transportation from Dulanga coal mines.

PM Modi arrives in Odisha, meets Anganwadi workers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that connectivity is at the core of all-round development as he inaugurated Odisha's second airport at Jharsuguda district named after freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai.

Addressing a gathering during the inaugural event, the Prime Minister stressed the need for modern infrastructure for building a modern India.&nbsp;

"This airport in Jharsuguda is well located to serve the needs of the people of Odisha. This is going to be the second airport in the state. This airport is at the 'Triveni Sangam' (confluence), it will become a centre point for Bhubaneswar, Ranchi and Raipur," he said. Those presented at the event included Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Orzm, and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu.

Emphasising on the importance of connectivity for economic development, Prime Minister Modi said, "Connectivity is at the core of all-round development. Our government has devoted significant efforts to enhance connectivity all over the nation. It will attract industrialists to invest in Jharsuguda, Sambhalpur and surrounding areas."

He also hailed the growth and development taking place in the aviation sector, "I hail from Gujarat. We have a district called Kutch; there are five airports in that one district. We need to wonder why it took so many years for a second airport to come up in Odisha whereas Civil Aviation Minister&nbsp; 
Suresh Prabhu was explaining me about the growth in the aviation sector.&nbsp;

While only around 450 planes have been flying in the country since independence, we have already booked around 950 new aircraft in the past one year itself."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that connectivity is at the core of all-round development as he inaugurated Odisha's second airport at Jharsuguda district named after freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that connectivity is at the core of all-round development as he inaugurated Odisha's second airport at Jharsuguda district named after freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. Addressing a gathering during the inaugural event, the Prime Minister stressed the need for modern infrastructure for building a modern India. "This airport in Jharsuguda is well located to serve the needs of the people of Odisha. This is going to be the second airport in the state. This airport is at the 'Triveni Sangam' (confluence), it will become a centre point for Bhubaneswar, Ranchi and Raipur," he said. Those presented at the event included Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Orzm, and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu. Emphasising on the importance of connectivity for economic development, Prime Minister Modi said, "Connectivity is at the core of all-round development. Our government has devoted significant efforts to enhance connectivity all over the nation. It will attract industrialists to invest in Jharsuguda, Sambhalpur and surrounding areas." He also hailed the growth and development taking place in the aviation sector, "I hail from Gujarat. We have a district called Kutch; there are five airports in that one district. We need to wonder why it took so many years for a second airport to come up in Odisha whereas Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu was explaining me about the growth in the aviation sector. While only around 450 planes have been flying in the country since independence, we have already booked around 950 new aircraft in the past one year itself."

Odisha: PM Modi inaugurates Jharsuguda airport

The keys of the 12th century Jagannath Temple's treasury chamber Ratna Bhandar in Odisha have reportedly gone missing.

The state chief minister Naveen Patnaik has ordéred a judicial probe into the matter after protests by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

The case of the missing keys of the inner chamber surfaced two months ago on April 4 at the meeting of the Sri Jagannath Temple Managing Committee.

On the orders&nbsp;of the Orissa High Court, a 16 member team had entered the Ratna Bhandar on April 4 to investigate the physical conditions in tight security.

The court is monitoring the repair works undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India in the shrine since 2016.

The court had ordered the ASI to examine the structural stability and safety of the Ratna Bhandar. The team, however, could not reach the inner chambers of the Bhandar due to unavailability of keys.

The Mahapatra has claimed that neither the temple administration nor the Puri district treasury has the key of the inner treasury. 
&nbsp;

The case of the missing keys of the inner chamber surface two months ago on April 4 at the meeting of the Sri Jagannath Temple Managing Committee

The keys of the 12th century Jagannath Temple's treasury chamber Ratna Bhandar in Odisha have reportedly gone missing. The state chief minister Naveen Patnaik has ordéred a judicial probe into the matter after protests by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, and the Bharatiya Janata Party. The case of the missing keys of the inner chamber surfaced two months ago on April 4 at the meeting of the Sri Jagannath Temple Managing Committee. On the orders of the Orissa High Court, a 16 member team had entered the Ratna Bhandar on April 4 to investigate the physical conditions in tight security. The court is monitoring the repair works undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India in the shrine since 2016. The court had ordered the ASI to examine the structural stability and safety of the Ratna Bhandar. The team, however, could not reach the inner chambers of the Bhandar due to unavailability of keys. The Mahapatra has claimed that neither the temple administration nor the Puri district treasury has the key of the inner treasury.

Keys of Jagannath Temple treasury go missing, Odisha CM orders judicial probe

Biju Janta Dal(BJD) MP Jay Panda today quit the party informing the Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik that he was&nbsp;leaving the ruling party in the state due "the politics into which our BJD has descended".

Jay Panda said he will formally convey his decision to the Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan.

The MP from Kendrapara was suspended by the BJD earlier this year for "anti-party activities".

The MP from Kendrapara was suspended by the BJD earlier this year for "anti-party activities".

Biju Janta Dal(BJD) MP Jay Panda today quit the party informing the Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik that he was leaving the ruling party in the state due "the politics into which our BJD has descended". Jay Panda said he will formally convey his decision to the Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. The MP from Kendrapara was suspended by the BJD earlier this year for "anti-party activities".

MP Jay Panda quits CM Naveen Patnaik's BJD

The Naveen Patnaik-led BJD Friday said it was not in favour of the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra.

"Impeachment notice against the CJI should be given on rare occasion. There is no point in demeaning the post of the CJI," BJD spokesman and Odisha government chief whip Amar Prasad Satpathy told reporters Bhubaneswar.

Seven Opposition parties, led by the Congress, on Friday initiated an unprecedented step to impeach the Chief Justice of India, moving a notice accusing him of "misbehaviour" and "misuse" of authority.

Leveling five specific allegations, leaders of the Opposition parties met Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, who is also the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, and handed him over the notice of impeachment bearing signatures of 64 MPs and seven former MPs, who recently retired.

Misra is the 45th Chief Justice of India and the third from Odisha to occupy the country's highest judicial post.

Earlier, Justice Ranganath Misra (21st) and Justice Gopal Ballav Patnaik (32nd) have held the post.&nbsp

'Impeachment notice against the CJI should be given on rare occasion. There is no point in demeaning the post of the CJI,'BJD spokesman and Odisha government chief whip Amar Prasad Satpathy told reporters Bhubaneswar

The Naveen Patnaik-led BJD Friday said it was not in favour of the impeachment motion against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra. "Impeachment notice against the CJI should be given on rare occasion. There is no point in demeaning the post of the CJI," BJD spokesman and Odisha government chief whip Amar Prasad Satpathy told reporters Bhubaneswar. Seven Opposition parties, led by the Congress, on Friday initiated an unprecedented step to impeach the Chief Justice of India, moving a notice accusing him of "misbehaviour" and "misuse" of authority. Leveling five specific allegations, leaders of the Opposition parties met Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, who is also the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, and handed him over the notice of impeachment bearing signatures of 64 MPs and seven former MPs, who recently retired. Misra is the 45th Chief Justice of India and the third from Odisha to occupy the country's highest judicial post. Earlier, Justice Ranganath Misra (21st) and Justice Gopal Ballav Patnaik (32nd) have held the post.

BJD not in favour of impeachment motion against CJI

The Congress is leading in both the Madhya Pradesh assembly seats where by-elections were held last week.

In Kolaras constituency, Congress candidate Mahendra Singh Yadav maintained his lead in the first round.&nbsp;

He was ahead by 1,331 votes after the end of the fourth round of counting, as per election official said.

In Mungaoli, Congress&rsquo; Brijendra Singh Yadav was ahead of his rival BJP candidate by 1,332 votes after the fourth round.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the recent reports indicate that Congress has extended lead on Mungaoli seat and is now ahead by 1642 seats, total votes 5244.

In Kolaras bye-election, the contest is between the Congress&#39; Mahendra Singh Yadav and Bharatiya Janata Party&rsquo;s (BJP) Devendra Jain. &nbsp;Whereas, for Mungaoli Assembly seat, Congress candidate Brijendra Singh Yadav and BJP&rsquo;s Baisahab Yadav are in the fray.&nbsp;

Overall, 13 candidates are in the fray in Mungaoli and 22 in Kolaras.

The outcome of the two by-polls, held on 24 February, are being seen as a possible pointer to the mood of people ahead of the assembly elections due later this year in the BJP-ruled state.

Meanwhile, in Odisha, Biju Janta Dal&rsquo;s Rita Sahu won Bijepur seat by a margin of 41,933 votes.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik arrived at the party headquarters and celebrated with the workers after party&#39;s victory.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I would like to express my gratitude to public for showering their blessings on BJD. I am sure we will do very very well in 2019 General Elections as well,&rdquo; says Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik on his party&rsquo;s win in Bijepur Assembly Bye-poll.&nbsp;

He even took to Twitter and thanked the people of Odisha for choosing BJD.

&quot;Humbled by love &amp; trust of the people of #Bijepur for giving @bjd_Odisha a massive victory. BJD lives in the hearts of the people of #Odisha. Our people are peace loving and have rejected the politics of hatred and violence,&quot; he tweeted. 
&nbsp;

Overall, 13 candidates are in the fray in Mungaoli and 22 in Kolaras

The Congress is leading in both the Madhya Pradesh assembly seats where by-elections were held last week. In Kolaras constituency, Congress candidate Mahendra Singh Yadav maintained his lead in the first round. He was ahead by 1,331 votes after the end of the fourth round of counting, as per election official said. In Mungaoli, Congress’ Brijendra Singh Yadav was ahead of his rival BJP candidate by 1,332 votes after the fourth round. Meanwhile, the recent reports indicate that Congress has extended lead on Mungaoli seat and is now ahead by 1642 seats, total votes 5244. In Kolaras bye-election, the contest is between the Congress' Mahendra Singh Yadav and Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Devendra Jain. Whereas, for Mungaoli Assembly seat, Congress candidate Brijendra Singh Yadav and BJP’s Baisahab Yadav are in the fray. Overall, 13 candidates are in the fray in Mungaoli and 22 in Kolaras. The outcome of the two by-polls, held on 24 February, are being seen as a possible pointer to the mood of people ahead of the assembly elections due later this year in the BJP-ruled state. Meanwhile, in Odisha, Biju Janta Dal’s Rita Sahu won Bijepur seat by a margin of 41,933 votes. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik arrived at the party headquarters and celebrated with the workers after party's victory. “I would like to express my gratitude to public for showering their blessings on BJD. I am sure we will do very very well in 2019 General Elections as well,” says Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik on his party’s win in Bijepur Assembly Bye-poll. He even took to Twitter and thanked the people of Odisha for choosing BJD. "Humbled by love & trust of the people of #Bijepur for giving @bjd_Odisha a massive victory. BJD lives in the hearts of the people of #Odisha. Our people are peace loving and have rejected the politics of hatred and violence," he tweeted.

By-poll results: BJP loses Odisha to Naveen Patnaik, on verge of losing MP to Congress

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