Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s close aide, V K Pandian, announced on Wednesday that CM Naveen Patnaik, set to take oath for the 6th time on June 9, will prioritize free power supply for 90% of Odisha’s population.
During a visit to Deogarh district, V K Pandian shared a video of his conversation with the CM, stating, “Naveen Babu’s first order will be free power supply for 90% of Odisha’s population.”
CM Naveen Patnaik affirmed this, emphasizing “Naveen Patnaik’s Bijili (power) guarantee and Conch symbol’s guarantee.”
The announcement follows scrutiny from state BJP leader Samir Mohanty, who challenged the BJD’s promise of free power supply, demanding clarification on the number of beneficiaries.
The BJD’s election manifesto pledges free electricity to domestic households using less than 100 units per month and 50 free units for those consuming between 100-150 units. The party estimates coverage for 85-90% of Odisha’s households, benefiting both rural and urban populations, along with free power for farmers reliant on agricultural pumps.
The initiative aims to provide relief to a significant portion of the state’s population, particularly in western Odisha.
