Odisha's Chief Minister Advocates for Transparent Revenue Administration

A Call for Integrity in Revenue Management

Bhubaneswar: On Wednesday, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the importance of a transparent and citizen-focused revenue administration during the State-Level Revenue Officers’ Conference held at Lok Seva Bhawan.

Majhi highlighted a strict stance against corruption, particularly in land transactions, warning that any misconduct, especially involving tribal and scheduled caste lands, would lead to severe consequences.

"Such unlawful dealings seldom occur without the awareness of tehsildars. If you are found involved, you will face accountability," he warned.

The Chief Minister reiterated that his administration's primary goal is to assist those who have been historically marginalized and neglected.

He urged officials to safeguard government lands from encroachments and to handle land-related issues like mutations and partitions with complete transparency and within set deadlines.

"We are set to introduce several reforms in the revenue sector shortly. When dealing with land disputes, remember you are delivering justice. Act with integrity," stated CM Majhi, who referred to tehsildars as the "backbone of grassroots governance," emphasizing their crucial role in addressing public grievances swiftly.

"Your office should be a place of trust, not fear for the public," he added. Reaffirming his government's dedication to modernizing land administration, he declared, "No individual in Odisha should remain landless.

Even those with less than four decimals of land will be recognized as landless and will receive land through the government’s allocation scheme.

"The successful execution of this initiative relies on your active participation."

Majhi commended revenue officers for their efficient evacuation of 8.1 lakh individuals to 6,210 safe shelters during cyclone ‘Dana’ as part of the "Zero Casualty" mission.

As the monsoon season approaches, CM Majhi instructed officials to stay vigilant and proactive.

"The monsoon has already started in some regions. Regularly monitor weather updates and follow SOPs to ensure public safety," he advised, noting that the monsoon and potential cyclonic threats will continue until November.

In closing, the Chief Minister remarked: "The Revenue Department reflects clean and effective governance. Your focus should not be on power or prestige, but on commitment to public service."