Naveen Patnaik

“Democracy should not work on the basis of personalities.”

“Odisha faces natural calamities almost every year. The assistance we get from the Centre is mostly for temporary restoration of infrastructure. We have to spend a lot from state's own funds to work for the long-term. This puts too much stress on our finances. Precisely for this reason, Odisha should be considered for special category status.”

“To empower the women in rural areas, we have started something called Mission Shakti.”

“I was never in politics before I contested the Lok Sabha by-elections after my father's death.”

“Personally, I have never considered myself corrupt or seen the need to be so. People are judged as what they are perceived to be.”

“My interest as a regional party is to support, or try and support, whichever party fulfils the aspirations of Odisha.”

“I am always with poor and will continue work for protecting their interests.”

“The people of Odisha know who fulfils promises and who does not. We believe in works and not in words.”

“I am quite fluent in Odiya. I understand the people of Odisha, and they understand me.”

“My father used to say that you haven't learnt anything about politics unless you've been out of power for at least 10 years. That's why I am certain I am here to stay.”

“I know people voted for me only in my father's name.”

“We've always tried to run a transparent and honest government.”

“I would like to express my deep gratitude to the people of Bijepur Assembly constituency for having showered their blessings on the BJD.”

“Our government has been pro-poor, progressive, and people-oriented.”

“One should do what is good for the country.”

“The love and affection of the people of Odisha continues to inspire me every day.”

“My health has never been an issue.”

“I thought my father served the people of Orissa, and I thought I would continue that to some extent.”

“Federalism is an intrinsic part of our constitutional set-up.”

“I do think a healthy opposition is very necessary in a democracy.”