Bhubaneswar: Ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today launched a membership drive targeting at least 50 lakh new members under its fold by October end.

Launching the programme at party headquarters here, party Supremo and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik became the first member the party.

Addressing the gathering, Patnaik said, “All 4.5 crore people are family of BJD. The party has blessings of every individual from every village. Through this membership drive, we will meet all of them, including our farmer brothers. Their support will further strengthen the party.”

The drive will be a grand success with the support of the people of the state, Patnaik hoped.

The drive that will be held both online and offline this time will continue till October 31. Four active members from each ward, five from each NAC, 15 from each municipality and 40 from corporation will be engaged in the drive. The party that currently has 47 lakh members targets to increase its number to one crore through this drive.