Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 11 in New Delhi to hold talks on various important issues.
Sources said Patnaik, who would be accompanied by BJD MPs, is likely to have discussions on restoration measures post Cyclone Fani and Odisha’s possible participation in the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat health scheme.
Speculations are rife that Patnaik will pitch for selection of BJD MP Bhartruhari Mahtab as Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker. Notably, a possible choice of Mahtab being made Deputy Speaker is opposed by NDA ally Shiv Sena on the ground that the BJD and the BJP fought the elections as bitter rivals. The Shiv Sena wants the Deputy Speaker post for itself.
Notably, this would be the Chief Minister’s first meeting with the Prime Minister after declaration of the election results. Patnaik is also likely to meet some other Union Ministers during his visit.
