Odisha CM asks block development officers to avoid old practices, political bias

IANS May 15, 2025 321 views

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi instructed block development officers to abandon old political biases for better public service. Majhi emphasized proper coordination with people’s representatives and adherence to unbiased, dedicated service, warning of strict action against corruption. He highlighted goals like reducing labor migration and improving rural economic status through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. The overarching vision is to transform Odisha into a developed state by aligning with PM Modi's initiative and focusing on comprehensive rural development.

"Corruption or negligence will not be tolerated under any circumstances." - Mohan Charan Majhi
Bhubaneswar, May 15: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday asked the development officers at the district level to work for the betterment of people by giving up their old habits and political favouritism as followed during the previous government.

Key Points

1

Majhi warns against political bias urging unbiased service

2

Highlights labour-centric goals under National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme

3

Promotes vision for 'Vikshit Odisha' with grassroots initiatives

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Calls for efficient resolutions at block offices for basic amenities

While addressing the conference of the Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Chief Development Officers (CDOs) at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Hall here on Thursday, CM Majhi also cautioned the officers to avoid misbehaving with elected representatives of the people.

He instructed the officers to rather work in coordination with the people's representatives. The Chief Minister also revealed that he had personally experienced such rude behaviour when working as a Sarpanch.

Majhi exhorted the BDOs and CDOs to ensure that machines are not used for works in labour intensive projects under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, which will help greatly in mitigating the problem of migration of labourers and improve the economic status of rural poor.

He advised the BDOs and CDOs to work dedicatedly, considering themselves as servants of the people.

"You have been appointed to serve the people, so it is your duty to work with sincerity and sense of service. I want to make it clear here that strict action will be taken if you neglect performing your duty. Corruption or negligence will not be tolerated under any circumstances," said Majhi.

Majhi during his address also presented a detailed roadmap for a "Vikshit Odisha" (Developed Odisha).

In his address, the Chief Minister emphasised the critical role of the Panchayati Raj Department in transforming rural Odisha. He said that the government is committed to creating a prosperous and developed Odisha by implementing targeted grassroots development initiatives.

Highlighting the vision inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mission of "Viksit Bharat", CM Majhi stressed the importance of holistic village development.

"Each panchayat and village should have at least one micro-tourism center, a connecting road, resource centers, and access to basic amenities like drinking water, quality education, Anganwadi centers, and agricultural support," he said.

"The efficiency of a block depends on the commitment of its officers. A villager should be able to visit the block office and find swift resolutions to their issues -- whether it's related to housing, drinking water, ration cards, or farming needs," he added.

CM Majhi urged the officials to become active listeners and problem-solvers, saying their proactive engagement is key to fulfilling the aspirations of the people and realising the dream of a prosperous Odisha.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh P.
Finally some clear direction for rural development! The focus on MGNREGA without machines is smart - will create more jobs for locals. Hope officers implement this properly. CM Majhi speaking from his sarpanch experience gives me confidence 🙏
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Priyanka M.
Good intentions but implementation is key. Previous govt also made similar promises. Officers have deep-rooted habits - will need strong monitoring system. Micro-tourism centers sound interesting though! Odisha has so much untapped potential.
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Amit K.
As someone from rural Odisha, I've seen how officers treat common people. CM is right - they behave like babus, not servants. Hope this warning changes their attitude. Basic amenities first, then fancy projects please!
S
Sunita R.
Coordinating with elected reps is crucial but shouldn't mean bending rules for politicians. Strict action against corruption is welcome 👍 Hope this Vikshit Odisha vision includes women's self-help groups - they're backbone of rural economy!
D
Deepak N.
Connecting roads and resource centers should be priority #1. My village still gets cut off during rains. Officers come once, take photos, and disappear. CM's warning about strict action gives hope 🤞 Jai Odisha!
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Meena T.
Good to see focus on grassroots. But what about urban Odisha? Bhubaneswar needs attention too - traffic, pollution, infrastructure. Development should be balanced. Still, rural-first approach is needed after years of neglect.

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Tags:
Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi Block Development Officers Political Bias Rural Development Vikshit Odisha Modi's Viksit Bharat