New Year Vision for a More Active and Accountable Governance
On the occasion of the New Year, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi issued a comprehensive 15-point directive to Chief Secretary Anu Garg and all senior administrative officers, outlining a renewed governance approach aimed at making the state administration more proactive, accountable, and development-oriented.
The Chief Minister’s new administrative roadmap reflects a clear shift towards efficiency, transparency, and performance-driven governance.
Vision 2036: Towards a Prosperous Odisha
Chief Minister Majhi reiterated the government’s long-term goal of building a “Prosperous Odisha by 2036.” He emphasized plans to position Odisha among the top five developed states in India, steering the state towards a mixed economy model with strong emphasis on knowledge-driven industries and the service sector.
Fast-Tracking Industrial Growth
To accelerate industrialisation, the Chief Minister directed all District Collectors to actively facilitate industrial development in their respective districts. He stressed the need to fast-track approvals and administrative processes to attract investment and ensure time-bound implementation of projects.
Administrative Reforms and Accountability
A major focus of the 15-point directive is administrative reform. The Chief Minister announced that all vacant posts will be filled within the next two years, with priority given to skilled and well-trained officers.
He also issued a stern warning against corruption and inefficiency, stating that strict action will be taken against corrupt, incompetent, or irresponsible officers, including provisions for compulsory retirement where necessary.
Performance Monitoring and Project Review
The Chief Minister underlined the importance of regular review and evaluation to ensure successful implementation of government projects. Officers have been instructed to conduct field visits, submit detailed reports, and ensure that on-ground realities are reflected in administrative decision-making. These efforts will directly influence performance evaluations of officials.
Emphasis on Odia Language in Governance
In a significant cultural and administrative move, Chief Minister Majhi directed that all government work, notices, notifications, official letters, and communications be conducted in the Odia language, reinforcing the state’s linguistic identity.
Public Grievance Redressal and Field Engagement
The directive places strong emphasis on public grievance redressal. Officers at all levels have been instructed to listen to citizens’ complaints seriously and conduct field inspections to ensure timely resolution of issues.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg Assumes Charge
With the New Year, Chief Secretary Anu Garg formally assumed her new responsibilities. Speaking to the media for the first time after taking charge, she stated that her priority would be to maximize work output and efficiency.
She also announced that she would hold a meeting with all departmental secretaries on her first day to align administrative machinery with the Chief Minister’s vision.
Symbolic Change in Government Offices
Meanwhile, in line with the Chief Minister’s emphasis on work over ceremony, the New Year began on a restrained note in government offices. At Lok Seva Bhawan, officials and staff greeted each other without bouquets or ceremonial formalities, symbolising a renewed focus on duty and performance over tradition.