BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, he is hopeful that Odisha would be poverty-free by 2036 when the State celebrates its 100th year of attaining special province status.
Addressing the Independence Day function here on Tuesday, where he fell sick, Naveen said the poverty amelioration measures have led to reduction of poverty by 25 per cent. The State has been at the forefront of poverty reduction in the country which is vouched by Central Government think tank NITI Aayog, he said
“Poverty levels will further go down in the next five years and I am hopeful that by 2036, the State would be free from poverty,” he said. The Chief Minister detailed out the achievements of his Government as well as focus sectors which he said are tribal welfare, skill development and employment, empowerment of farmers as well as child and women development.
Naveen was visibly unwell and could not complete his speech after hoisting the National Flag. He could barely speak towards the end. He had to end his speech abruptly as officials made him sit for a while before he got into his car and left the venue.On his way, he went to Capital Hospital for a check up where doctors said his health condition was alright. Later, he attended all the official events such as police medal ceremony and Governor’s At-Home function.
As pictures and news of his sudden discomfort went viral on the social media and TV channels, Naveen was quick to take to Twitter to clear the air. “Should have had adequate water for parade in sunny humid condition. Felt bit dehydrated. Perfectly fine now with 2 glasses of nimbu pani,” his official handle @Naveen_Odisha posted.
The CM also had a word of advice for school students attending the Independence Day functions. “Attending rest of day's programs. Must tell all you kids out there to drink adequate water before going out in sun. Thanks for your wishes,” he said.Later, former minister and BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra also said that Naveen was doing fine and there was nothing to worry about his health.