Odisha's Chief Minister Highlights Achievements and Future Plans Amidst Criticism
Chief Minister's Year in Office: A Reflection
Bhubaneswar: On Tuesday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi claimed that the BJP government in Odisha has successfully delivered on 11 out of the 21 commitments made to the electorate ahead of the 2024 elections. He emphasized that his humble background should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness.
During a press briefing marking the first anniversary of his administration on June 12, Majhi stated, "I come from a tribal lineage, and my simplicity is part of who I am. However, it should not be seen as a flaw."
This comment was in response to inquiries regarding his government's perceived inaction on significant corruption allegations linked to the previous BJD administration, particularly concerning chit fund and mining scandals.
"We have taken decisive measures against corruption. The recent arrest of an IAS officer underscores our commitment. A chief engineer was also detained on his retirement day due to graft allegations and is now incarcerated," Majhi noted, adding that several individuals implicated in major scams are currently imprisoned.
He assured that the Majhi administration will consistently address corruption issues.
"My government will mark its first year in two days. We are elected for a five-year term, and we will take appropriate actions against corrupt individuals in due time," Majhi remarked.
Reiterating his administration's dedication to good governance, he stated that no corrupt individual is secure in Odisha.
"Anyone engaging in corrupt practices will face imprisonment; there are no alternatives," Majhi declared.
In response to another query, he announced that the government will implement a 11.25% reservation in technical education for Socially and Economically Backward Class (SEBC) students starting this year.
Majhi highlighted that a significant achievement of his government is bridging the gap between the administration and the public.
"Today, anyone can approach their Chief Minister and ministers without barriers. Over the past year, I have traveled to every district, connecting with thousands of citizens, listening to their concerns, and sharing in their joys and sorrows," he explained.
Criticizing the former BJD government led by Naveen Patnaik, he mentioned that his administration has made four key welfare decisions, including financial support for farmers and the implementation of minimum support prices (MSP) for paddy during the first cabinet meeting.
"Transforming lives doesn't require 24 years; significant changes can occur in just 24 minutes if there is a genuine commitment to public service," Majhi asserted, expressing his government's alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Viswas, and Sabka Prayas.'
He also targeted the previous BJD government for its failure to ensure safe drinking water for citizens during its 24-year tenure, stating that the BJP government has initiated efforts to provide piped water to 90% of the state's population by 2026.
Majhi further mentioned plans to extend 'Antayoday Ghira' benefits to 5 lakh individuals who were excluded from various surveys.
In just one year, approximately 28,000 state government jobs have been created, with an additional 40,000 jobs expected this year. He noted significant advancements in railway, national highway, and air service infrastructure.
"By 2036, Odisha is poised to rank among the top five states in India with a USD 500 billion economy," Majhi concluded.