The correct answer is: a) Below 15%.
Odisha’s outstanding public debt as a percentage of GSDP was 13.7% in 2020-21. This is lower than the national average of 48.6%. The state’s debt has been declining in recent years, due to a number of factors, including prudent fiscal management, economic growth, and increased revenue collection.
The state government has taken a number of steps to reduce its debt burden, including:
- Increasing revenue collection: The state government has taken steps to increase revenue collection, including improving tax administration and expanding the tax base.
- Reducing expenditure: The state government has also taken steps to reduce expenditure, including rationalizing subsidies and improving efficiency in government departments.
- Raising funds through market borrowings: The state government has also raised funds through market borrowings, at relatively low interest rates.
The state government’s efforts to reduce its debt burden have been successful, and the state’s debt-to-GSDP ratio is now one of the lowest in the country. This is a positive development, as it will help the state to maintain its fiscal stability and invest in development programs.
The other options are incorrect because they are higher than the actual value of Odisha’s outstanding public debt as a percentage of GSDP.