BHUBANESWAR: Chairperson of the Twenty Points Programme of Andhra Pradesh government Lanka Dinakar on Monday lauded the Odisha government for its prudent fiscal management and high growth rate achieved across various key sectors.
Addressing senior officials of several departments at the Lok Seva Bhawan here, he called for greater partnerships between both the neighbouring states to capitalise on each other’s strengths and capabilities to accelerate the pace of development.
He pointed out that efficient financial management has been a key strength of Odisha, with a debt-to-GSDP ratio of 14.1 per cent, borrowings within FRBM limits and revenue surplus status since 2005-06. He observed that Odisha has been recognised as the top-ranked state in the Fiscal Health Index.
He also appreciated Odisha’s management of natural calamities, citing the state’s best practices in preparedness, response and post-disaster restoration during cyclones and other situations.
Highlighting the joint strength of the states, Dinakar said the proximity of Visakhapatnam with Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur and other cities through road, rail and air connectivity offers significant opportunities for both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. The Visakhapatnam Industrial Corridor can become a major driver of regional growth.