Bhubaneswar: BJD MP Sasmit Patra today raised various issues concerning Odisha’s development and demands, included Special Category State status for the state pending with the Centre, in the Rajya Sabha.
Speaking in Odia, Patra reiterated the demand for inclusion of Sambalpuri, Kosali and Ho languages in 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Patra also raised the demand for establishment of second AIIMS hospital in Odisha in Sundargarh district, Odisha Vidhan Parishad and Shree Jagannath International Airport in Puri.
Raising the issue of low telecommunication and banking coverage in the state, Sasmit said telecommunication coverage needs to be increased as 2235 villages in Odisha don’t have access to it. Also, 70 % Gram Panchayats don’t have banking coverage.
“Issues of coal royalty, clean energy cess and coastal highway are pending as well. Hope the Centre would take due action to expedite the pending issues,” said the MP.