Naveen Patnaik – Odisha Chief Minister
- Full Name: Naveen Patnaik
- Date of Birth: October 16, 1946
- Place of Birth: Cuttack, Odisha, India
Family Background and Early Life of Naveen Patnaik
- Naveen Patnaik, born to Biju Patnaik, a prominent Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Odisha, enjoyed a privileged upbringing in a political family.
- A significant portion of his early life was spent abroad.
Naveen Patnaik comes from a distinguished political background. Here’s an overview of his family background
Naveen Patnaik Father: Biju Patnaik
- Biju Patnaik was a prominent Indian politician, freedom fighter, and aviator.
- Born on March 5, 1916, in Cuttack, Odisha, Biju Patnaik played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence.
- He served as the Chief Minister of Odisha twice, first from 1961 to 1963 and then from 1990 to 1995.
- Biju Patnaik was also a Member of Parliament and received several awards for his contributions to the nation.
Naveen Patnaik Mother: Gyan Patnaik
- Gyan Patnaik was the wife of Biju Patnaik.
Naveen Patnaik Siblings
- Naveen Patnaik had one sister, Gita Mehta.
- Gita Mehta is an accomplished author and has written several books, including “Raj,” “A River Sutra,” and “Karma Cola.”
Family Inheritance of Naveen Patnaik
- Naveen Patnaik inherited a significant political legacy from his father, Biju Patnaik.
- The Patnaik family has played a crucial role in the political landscape of Odisha, with both Biju and Naveen holding key positions in the state.
Educational Background of Naveen Patnaik
- Completed his education in the United States.
- Studied at esteemed institutions such as the University of Delhi, the University of Kansas, and the University of Westminster.
Political Career of Naveen Patnaik
- Entered the political arena in 1997 following the demise of his father, Biju Patnaik.
- Founded the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
- Successfully contested a by-election, securing a position as a Member of Parliament from the Aska constituency in the same year.
- Assumed the role of Chief Minister of Odisha in 1997, a position he has retained for multiple consecutive terms.
Chief Minister of Odisha
- Serving as the Chief Minister of Odisha since 2000.
- Recognized for his clean image and reserved demeanor.
- Re-elected in subsequent state elections, solidifying his status as one of the longest-serving Chief Ministers in India.
Achievements and Contributions of Naveen Patnaik
- Implemented diverse developmental initiatives in Odisha.
- Key focus areas encompass disaster management, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development.
- Commended for effective disaster preparedness, particularly in managing the aftermath of cyclones along the coastal state.
Naveen Patnaik Awards and Accolades
- Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Odisha, has garnered several awards for his significant contributions to politics and public service:
- Ideal Chief Minister Award (2015): Acknowledged in 2015 for exceptional leadership and governance in Odisha.
- Kalinga Ratna Award (2019): Conferred upon him in 2019, recognizing his outstanding contribution to the development of Odisha and his efforts in disaster management.
- Best Administrator in India Award (2017): Honoured in 2017 by the Outlook Speakout Awards for his exemplary administrative skills.
Naveen Patnaik Properties and Assets
As of December 2022, Naveen Patnaik has a net worth of 64.50 crores and he is among the richest Chief Ministers of India.