Bhubaneswar, Feb. 1 -- Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday strongly criticised the union Budget 2026, calling it "one of the most disappointing budgets" for Odisha as it offers no noteworthy benefits to the state or its people.
Patnaik said the people of Odisha had high expectations from the so-called "double-engine government," hoping for a strong growth push through infrastructure development, job creation, and enhanced allocations that are rightfully due to the state.
However, he remarked that Odisha has received very little in return.
The former Chief Minister, however, welcomed the proposal to establish a Rare Earth Corridor in Odisha, noting that the state is a leading producer ...