Chief Secretary of Odisha, Anu Garg, chaired the 7th meeting of the State-Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) held at the Lok Seva Bhawan conference hall on Tuesday. The meeting focused on strengthening measures to control drug trafficking, create awareness for building a drug-free society, and improve coordination among various departments and enforcement agencies.

Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary of Home and Information & Public Relations Department Hemant Sharma, Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania, CID-Crime Branch DG Binayatosh Mishra, Deputy Director General of Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Kolkata, and senior officers from different state departments participated in the meeting and shared their suggestions.

During the meeting, the CID-Crime Branch highlighted the progress made in the fight against illegal narcotics. It was informed that between 2024 and 2026, more than 513 metric tonnes of ganja have been seized across Odisha. A total of 3,238 cases have been registered, leading to the arrest of 4,534 people. Authorities have also destroyed more than 69,470 acres of illegal ganja cultivation.

The meeting further revealed that over 33 kilograms of brown sugar and more than two lakh bottles of codeine-based cough syrup have been seized. In a special operation conducted by the Special Task Force (STF) along the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha border, seven members of an interstate drug trafficking network were arrested, and narcotics worth around Rs 230 crore, including hashish oil and ganja, were recovered.

The Chief Secretary directed officials to take stronger action against drug networks and improve coordination at district levels. She advised that NCORD-related issues should be discussed during meetings with district collectors and stressed the need for faster trials in narcotics cases.

She also emphasized expanding public awareness campaigns, especially among youth, to protect them from drug abuse. The meeting suggested promoting profitable agricultural activities and alternative livelihood opportunities for people involved in illegal ganja cultivation to help achieve the goal of a drug-free Odisha.

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Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday chaired the State-Level Natural Calamity Committee (SLNCC) meeting and emphasized the need to further strengthen the state’s disaster management framework, reaffirming the government’s commitment to its “Zero Casualty” policy.

The high-level meeting, held at Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre in Bhubaneswar, was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, senior government officials, MPs, MLAs, and representatives from various departments.

Focus on Disaster Preparedness

Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister said Odisha has developed a robust and nearly foolproof disaster management system over the years, earning recognition both nationally and internationally. He stressed that maintaining and continuously improving this system remains a top priority for the government.

Several key decisions were taken during the meeting to enhance the state’s preparedness for natural disasters and ensure effective response mechanisms in the future.

El Niño Concerns and Agriculture Preparedness

With forecasts indicating the possible impact of El Niño leading to below-normal rainfall this year, the Chief Minister directed the Agriculture Department to prepare a comprehensive contingency plan. He instructed agriculture, irrigation, and other related departments to work in close coordination under a “Whole of Government” approach to minimize any adverse impact on the Kharif crop season.

A state-level monitoring mechanism has been put in place to track rainfall, water levels, crop planning, and the availability of seeds and fertilizers. District collectors have also been asked to closely monitor fertilizer supplies and maintain adequate stocks of nano urea to address any shortages caused by potential global supply disruptions.

Measures to Prevent Fertilizer Black Marketing

The government has directed authorities to keep a close watch on fertilizer distribution amid concerns of global shortages due to geopolitical instability in the Middle East. Vigilance committees have been formed at the panchayat level to prevent black marketing and ensure farmers receive fertilizers without disruption.

Odisha’s ‘Zero Casualty’ Model Praised

The Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s globally acclaimed disaster management practices and noted that the state’s “Zero Casualty” approach has become a model for disaster risk reduction. He also mentioned that Odisha’s disaster preparedness system received appreciation during the recent BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group technical meeting held in Puri.

Lessons from Recent Cyclones

Majhi cited the successful management of Cyclone Montha and earlier Cyclone Dana as examples of Odisha’s preparedness. During Cyclone Montha, which affected 11 districts, nearly 38,000 people were safely evacuated from vulnerable areas.

The evacuation and relief operations involved 33 ODRAF teams, five NDRF units, and 123 Fire Services teams, helping restore normalcy in record time.

₹6 Lakh Grant for Each Cyclone Shelter

To strengthen disaster infrastructure, the government has allocated an annual maintenance grant of ₹6 lakh for each of the state’s 911 multi-purpose cyclone and flood shelters. The funds will be used to ensure the availability of drinking water, lighting, cooking facilities, and other essential services.

Improved Early Warning and Communication Systems

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of providing accurate and timely information to the public during disasters. He directed officials to utilize television, social media platforms, and mobile communication systems to counter rumours and disseminate verified information.

The state’s emergency response infrastructure, including the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP)-based SMS warning system, 24-hour emergency control rooms, and the 112 helpline service, remains fully operational.

Expansion of Emergency Response Forces

Odisha currently has 20 ODRAF teams and 347 fire stations equipped with modern rescue equipment. The process of creating 10 additional ODRAF units is underway to further strengthen the state’s emergency response capabilities.

Commitment to Protect Lives and Livelihoods

Concluding the meeting, the Chief Minister reiterated that protecting the lives and livelihoods of people remains the government’s foremost priority. He called for greater coordination among departments and active public participation to maintain Odisha’s leadership in disaster management and preparedness.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari also highlighted Odisha’s achievements in disaster response and relief operations, stating that the state has set a benchmark for effective disaster management through careful planning and timely intervention.

Public representatives present at the meeting offered several suggestions based on ground realities in their constituencies. The Chief Minister assured that valuable recommendations would be considered while strengthening the state’s disaster management strategy.

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India’s Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan will visit Odisha on July 9 for a one-day official tour. During his visit, he will attend a programme organised by Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar.

The event is expected to be attended by Odisha Governor, Chief Minister and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. During his day-long visit, the Vice President will participate in various government and social programmes in Bhubaneswar.

The administration has started preparations for the Vice President’s visit. Officials from different departments are working to ensure proper arrangements, including security measures and coordination at the programme venue.

Special attention is being given to security arrangements, traffic management and other necessary preparations ahead of the visit. The concerned departments have been directed to remain alert to ensure the smooth conduct of all scheduled programmes.

During his visit, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan is also expected to interact with dignitaries and participate in important engagements in Bhubaneswar.

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The 23rd installment of the PM Kisan Yojana was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Tarakeswar in Hooghly, West Bengal, with financial assistance of more than ₹18,880 crore transferred to the bank accounts of over 9.44 crore farmers across the country.

In Odisha, more than 34.64 lakh farmers received benefits under the scheme, with over ₹692.86 crore directly credited to their bank accounts.

PM Kisan Scheme Supports Farmers’ Agricultural Needs

The PM Kisan Yojana is a flagship farmer welfare initiative of the Central Government that provides financial support to eligible farmers for agricultural activities.

Under the scheme, farmers receive a total assistance of ₹6,000 annually in three equal installments, which helps them purchase seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other essential agricultural inputs.

The day was observed across the country and Odisha as ‘Rashtriya Krushak Utsav Divas’ to honour the contribution of farmers.

State-Level PM Kisan Event Held in Rairangpur

The state-level programme for distribution of PM Kisan assistance was organized by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment at Mahtab Bhawan Town Hall, Rairangpur, Mayurbhanj district.

Addressing farmers, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, highlighted Odisha’s initiatives for farmer welfare.

He said Odisha is among the states where the government is procuring paddy from farmers at ₹3,100 per quintal, including during the Rabi season.

Focus on Farmer Income and Export Growth

The Deputy Chief Minister stated that farmers in Odisha have achieved significant progress in recent years, with fruits and vegetables being successfully grown and exported to foreign markets.

He said these achievements reflect the vision of “If the farmer smiles, the nation smiles.”

He also urged farmers to adopt short-duration crop varieties in view of the possible impact of El Niño this year to protect production.

Government Encourages Pulses and Oilseeds Cultivation

Calling for greater agricultural self-reliance, Singh Deo encouraged farmers to increase cultivation of pulses and oilseeds.

He assured that the government would procure these crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), helping Odisha move towards self-sufficiency in pulses and oilseeds production.

Officials Highlight Registration Under PM Kisan Scheme

Agriculture Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav welcomed the gathering and appealed to all eligible farmers to register under PM Kisan Yojana to avail the benefits.

H&UD Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Agriculture Director Shubham Saxena, and senior departmental officials attended the programme.

The event was also broadcast across Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), agricultural institutions, and central and state agricultural universities across Odisha.

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Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired a high-level Secretaries’ Meeting at Kharavela Bhawan on Friday to review governance reforms, implementation of government schemes, and key development initiatives across the state. The meeting was attended by Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretaries of various departments, senior officials from the Chief Minister’s Office, and departmental secretaries.

Focus on Good Governance and Result-Oriented Administration

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary reviewed measures aimed at strengthening good governance and promoting a results-based administrative framework. Emphasis was placed on ensuring greater efficiency, transparency, and citizen-centric service delivery through rapid assessment of government schemes and programmes.

Discussions were also held on the implementation of the Odisha Jan Biswas Act and the need to further simplify governance processes to improve public service delivery.

Rapid Survey-Based Assessment Proposed

Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, Sanjeev Kumar Mishra, briefed the meeting on the proposed “Rapid Survey-Based Assessment” mechanism for government schemes and programmes.

The system is expected to provide timely field-level feedback on the implementation of welfare and development initiatives. Officials said the mechanism would help identify gaps, facilitate mid-course corrections, support evidence-based policymaking, and strengthen outcome-oriented governance.

Review of Deregulation and Administrative Efficiency

The meeting reviewed steps taken across industries and other sectors to reduce unnecessary approvals and procedural complexities through regulatory simplification and deregulation measures.

Officials also assessed progress in filling vacant government posts and clearing pending electricity bill dues of various departments.

Preparations for President and Prime Minister’s Visit

Chief Secretary Anu Garg stressed the importance of seamless inter-departmental coordination for the scheduled visit of the President of India and the Prime Minister to Rairangpur on June 20.

She directed all concerned departments to ensure smooth execution of responsibilities and maintain high standards of administrative preparedness during the visit.

Angul Presents Vision for ‘Viksit Angul’

Angul Collector Abdall M. Akhtar presented a roadmap for achieving the vision of “Viksit Angul” through the implementation of 26 major infrastructure and development projects.

Among the key proposals discussed were a 112.56-km outer railway corridor from Budhapank to Luburi via Tentuloi and a 50-km inner railway corridor from Putugadia to Tentuloi. These projects are expected to significantly improve coal and mineral transportation and contribute to industrial growth in Odisha and across the country.

Major Infrastructure and Tourism Projects Reviewed

The meeting also reviewed the upgradation of NH-53 and NH-149, the Talcher–Bimlagarh railway link, and projects related to the development of National Waterway-5.

Officials highlighted notable achievements in mining-affected regions and outlined plans for several transformative projects between March and December 2027. These include:

• Establishment of five mega piped water supply projects
• Expansion of the Aluminium Park
• Full operationalisation of Pabitra Mohan Medical College and Hospital
• Development of the Malyagiri–Rengali–Manjor Eco-Tourism Circuit
• Transformation of Satkosia into a world-class tourism destination

The roadmap presented by the Angul administration aims to accelerate economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance quality of life across the district.

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President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to visit Odisha on Friday, with extensive preparations underway in Mayurbhanj district to welcome the country’s first citizen. The visit is expected to focus on development, healthcare, education, and infrastructure initiatives in the region.

President to Arrive at Dandbosh Airport

According to official sources, President Murmu will arrive at Dandbosh Airport at around 3:45 PM. District authorities and security agencies have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the visit.

Inauguration of Key Development Projects

During her visit, the President will inaugurate several important development projects aimed at improving public services in Mayurbhanj.

One of the key highlights of the visit will be the inauguration of a medical camp organized by AIIMS. The camp is expected to provide advanced healthcare services and specialized medical assistance to residents of the district and surrounding areas.

Mega Drinking Water Project to Benefit Thousands

President Murmu will also inaugurate a Mega Pipe Water Supply Project. The project is expected to strengthen drinking water infrastructure and ensure a more reliable water supply to several parts of Mayurbhanj district, benefiting thousands of households.

New District Police Office to Be Dedicated

The President is also scheduled to inaugurate the newly constructed District Police Office. The modern facility is expected to enhance administrative efficiency and further strengthen law and order management in the district.

Visit to Pahadpur on Saturday

On Saturday, President Murmu will visit Pahadpur, where she is expected to inspect a residential school and a skill development centre. The visit will provide an opportunity to review initiatives aimed at improving education and vocational training for local youth.

Prime Minister Likely to Join the Programme

Sources indicate that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may also join the President during parts of the visit, adding further significance to the programme. The possibility of both leaders attending the events has generated considerable interest across the state.

Boost for Mayurbhanj’s Development

The President’s visit is being viewed as a significant milestone for Mayurbhanj. With the launch of major infrastructure, healthcare, and public service projects, the visit is expected to give a fresh impetus to the district’s development and improve the quality of life for its residents.

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Rising Uncertainty Over Sijimali Bauxite Mine

The future of the Sijimali bauxite mine in Odisha has become increasingly uncertain amid strong opposition from local residents. The controversy has triggered several questions: Will Vedanta ultimately receive the mining project? If so, why is there such intense resistance? Did the government not anticipate public opposition before awarding the mine? And if it did, why was the project cleared in the first place?

These questions have gained prominence as protests against the project continue in the mining region.

Sijimali Was Auctioned to Vedanta in 2023

The Sijimali bauxite block was auctioned by the Odisha government on February 21, 2023. The mining lease covers approximately 1,549 hectares containing significant bauxite reserves and was awarded to Vedanta during the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government.

According to the terms of the agreement, Vedanta was expected to extract around 9 million tonnes of bauxite annually. Including topsoil and waste material, the total annual mining activity was projected to reach approximately 18 million tonnes.

The project proposal also included plans to establish crushing units in Thuamul Rampur of Kalahandi district and Kashipur of Rayagada district.

Investment Made, But Opposition Intensifies

Critics argue that after collecting auction revenues from Vedanta, the government now appears reluctant to move forward decisively with the project.

Vedanta has already invested substantial amounts in the region, including the development of drinking water facilities and road infrastructure. However, local opposition has intensified, with residents expressing concerns about displacement, loss of land, and threats to their traditional livelihoods.

Observers note that these concerns cannot simply be dismissed, as local communities stand to bear the direct impact of any mining operations.

Who Is Responsible for the Current Deadlock?

The controversy has sparked debate over who should be held accountable for the current situation.

Traditionally, mining leases were granted by governments in exchange for royalty payments. However, under the auction-based system, companies pay significant amounts upfront to secure mining rights.

Supporters of Vedanta argue that the company acquired the block through a transparent auction process and therefore expects the government to ensure that contractual commitments are honored. Critics, however, contend that public concerns should have been addressed before the auction process was completed.

Questions Over Different Treatment of Mining Projects

The Sijimali controversy has also led to comparisons with other proposed mining projects in Odisha.

While uncertainty continues over Vedanta’s access to Sijimali, reports suggest that plans are moving ahead for the Kutrumali bauxite block, which has been linked to the Adani Group’s expansion plans in the state.

This has raised questions among some industry observers and local stakeholders about whether similar standards are being applied to all mining projects.

Vedanta’s Existing Presence in Odisha

Vedanta already has a significant industrial footprint in Odisha. The company operates one of the world’s largest aluminium smelters at Jharsuguda and runs a major alumina refinery at Lanjigarh in Kalahandi district.

The group has also proposed establishing the Vedanta University project in Puri district.

Supporters of the company argue that its existing investments and employment generation should be considered while evaluating future mining allocations in the state.

Anil Agarwal Meets Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi

Amid the ongoing uncertainty, Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal met Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.

According to official statements, discussions focused on the progress and implementation of Vedanta projects worth more than ₹1 lakh crore in Odisha. While details of the meeting were not disclosed, the interaction has attracted considerable attention given the ongoing debate surrounding the Sijimali mine.

The Questions Remain

Despite government assurances regarding industrial development and investment, several key questions remain unanswered.

If Sijimali was awarded through a legally conducted auction, what steps will the government take to address local concerns while honoring contractual obligations? Can a balance be achieved between industrial growth and community rights? And how will the government ensure consistency in its approach toward different mining projects?

As the controversy continues, the future of the Sijimali project is likely to remain a major issue in Odisha’s political and industrial landscape.

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