'BJP Government's Focus Is On Boosting Odisha's Coastal Economy': PM Modi At Berhampur Rally

In his speech, PM Modi highlighted the examples of Tripura, Assam and Chhattisgarh, where he said the BJP had expedited development since returning to power. The states are led by BJP govts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Odisha's Berhampur city on Monday, where he said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government at the Centre is focusing on boosting the state's coastal economy.

According to ANI, he said, “Modi is working to enhance Odisha’s maritime capabilities." Modi said the government is investing in every sector, and noted that his administration carved out an exclusive ministry for fisheries. 

"Our focus is on Odisha's coastal economy. We are investing a lot in every sector. For the first time, we created a separate ministry for fisheries, gave subsidies for modernising boats, we gave Kisan Credit Card to fishermen for the first time. We are also expanding beach tourism under the Coastal Circuit scheme. Here, in Odisha, too, work worth crores has been done under the Sagarmala scheme. The convenience and prosperity of fishermen is paramount for us. We want to make Ganjam the tourism hub of India," he was quoted as saying by ANI.

Seeking to highlight the BJP’s emphasis on "good governance", PM Modi highlighted the examples of Tripura, Assam and Chhattisgarh, where he said the BJP had expedited development since returning to power. "Modi's guarantee underscored the party's commitment to good governance."

He also attacked the Congress, and Odisha's BJD government, stating that they had "turned the people of a rich state, poor".

“Odisha has water, fertile land, a treasure trove of minerals beneath the ground…a long coastline…trade centres like Berhampur... it's a silk city and food capital too. Here, there is history, heritage of culture as well. Still the people of this ‘rich’ Odisha remained poor…Who is responsible for this sin? The answer is Congress and BJD,” he said.

On Sunday, the BJP released their manifesto for the 2024 Odisha assembly polls, in which they promised 3.5 lakh jobs and Rs 50,000 cash vouchers for women. The assembly polls in the state are being held alongside the Lok Sabha elections.