Odisha's Chief Minister Unveils Plans for a New Social Media Policy

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced plans to formulate a new social media policy aimed at enhancing communication and combating misinformation. During a recent address, he highlighted the need for government officials to adapt to modern digital trends, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and speed in information dissemination. Majhi also pointed out that a specific group of youth is outpacing government officials in social media usage, prompting the need for a comprehensive strategy. The initiative will include a robust fact-checking system and a focus on storytelling to illustrate the impact of government programs on citizens' lives. This approach aims to strengthen the state's communication framework and ensure effective engagement with the public.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 9, 2026, 22:39 IST

Bhubaneswar's Digital Strategy

Bhubaneswar: On Friday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi monitors the social media activities of various state chief ministers. He shared insights from a chart that illustrates how these leaders engage with digital platforms.

CM Majhi pointed out that a particular group of youth, which he refrained from naming, is significantly more adept at utilizing these platforms than government officials. In response, his administration is working on a comprehensive social media policy.

During his keynote address on 'Emerging Trends in Social Media' at an orientation for Odisha Information Service (OIS) officers, he recounted a recent meeting in New Delhi with the Jal Shakti Ministry. There, the Prime Minister handed him a sealed envelope containing a chart detailing the social media usage of chief ministers across the country.

The chart indicated that some smaller states are outperforming Odisha in terms of social media engagement. CM Majhi has shared this information with the chief secretary, emphasizing the need for effective communication to reach citizens at all levels.

He urged OIS officers to leverage social media to enhance public service delivery, noting that today's youth are increasingly turning to social media and AI platforms over traditional media. To adapt, the government must embrace these modern communication trends.

Majhi announced plans to establish a 'Social Media Policy' aimed at creating a robust digital communication framework within the Information and Public Relations Department, extending from district offices to the state level. This initiative will include a rigorous fact-checking system to combat misinformation.

He remarked that mobile phones have transformed into versatile communication tools, serving as newspapers, televisions, and radios. Therefore, government officials should not limit their roles to issuing press releases but should act as proficient communicators.

The chief minister emphasized that the state's communication strategy should adhere to three core principles: accuracy, speed, and simplicity. He stressed that any errors in government data are unacceptable, as delays in information dissemination can lead to misinformation.

Majhi highlighted the importance of storytelling in communication, advocating for the sharing of personal narratives that illustrate how government initiatives positively impact citizens' lives.

He also addressed the challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence, including deepfakes and synthetic media, warning that misinformation can spread rapidly. Thus, verifying information before sharing is essential.

To enhance their skills, government officials must engage in continuous learning, focusing on digital media, fact-checking, and video production. CM Majhi has instructed departmental officials to develop a detailed proposal to strengthen the state's social media framework.