Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls for 'parivartan', hits out at BJD's laidback attitude

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for "parivartan" (change) while tearing into  Odisha's ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government for its laidback attitude in ensuring "all-round and fast-paced development".

dressing a public rally here after inaugurating a new airport, named after freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai, Prime Minister Modi said, " pace of development of Odisha is slow and government's willingness to transform state has been same even today. This has become an obstacle for all-round development. Odisha is lagging behind due to this government's laid-back attitude."

Stressing that entire country is progressing under  BJP-led government, he said, "Isliye Odisha mein ek parivartan ka samay aa gaya hain. Yeh parivartan hi apki aashao-umeedo ko pura karne ka kaam karega (So time has come for change in Odisha. se changes will work to fulfill your hopes and expectations)." He also ded that his government is working to improve ro, rail, water and air connectivity in state.

Stepping up attack on state government, Prime Minister said, "From irrigation to agriculture, from co-operative departments to ro constructions, re are scams everywhere. This is affecting people of state. How will Odisha develop in such a situation?"

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He furr informed that work on Jharsuguda-Barpali-Sardega rail link has begun, which will link tribal areas of state for first time with rest of country.

Targeting previous government, for stalling rail project, Prime Minister Modi said, " work began in 2006. But when Congress was at Centre, less than 30 per cent of work was done. After formation of  BJP government, however, more than 70 per cent work was done in last four years, and today I dedicate this route to people of Odisha."

Prime Minister Modi, who is on a day's visit to state, earlier in day laid foundation stone of Talcher Fertiliser Plant. Odisha is slated to go for assembly elections next year. 

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