Odisha Chief Secretary Institutes Monthly Review System to Accelerate Governance Reforms
Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired a crucial meeting of department secretaries in Bhubaneswar on Thursday. The high-level gathering aimed to fast-track the implementation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's 15-point directive. This directive was issued on January 1, just a day after Garg assumed her role as the state's top bureaucrat.
Focus on Budget Utilization and Future Planning
Speaking to reporters after the review at Kharavela Bhawan, Garg outlined the meeting's core discussions. The talks centered on the chief minister's key priorities. Officials examined the utilization of the current year's budget. They also began planning for the next financial year.
Garg announced a new monitoring mechanism. Secretary-level meetings will now occur twice every month. These sessions are scheduled for the 1st and the 15th. The goal is to ensure tighter oversight of all government programs.
Review of Expenditure and Revenue Mobilization
The meeting conducted a thorough review of expenditure positions across all departments. The chief secretary stressed the urgent need to accelerate spending. She emphasized strengthening revenue mobilization efforts. This push for funds is critical to support ongoing infrastructure development projects across Odisha.
Several other important matters came up for discussion. The agenda included inter-departmental and intra-departmental coordination issues. Officials discussed repealing obsolete Acts to improve the ease of doing business. They prepared proposals for the next cabinet meeting. Preparations for the upcoming state budget also received attention.
Garg highlighted one pressing public concern. "Pending mega drinking water projects must be prioritised," she stated. This urgency stems from rising public resentment over significant delays in these essential schemes.
Establishing a Fixed Calendar for Governance
The administration has set a fixed calendar for other key reviews. Video conferences with district collectors will be held on the 16th of every month. The next conference is an exception, scheduled for Friday. Garg will travel to West Bengal for an investors' meet around that time.
Furthermore, the Single Window Clearance Authority will meet every third Tuesday. This regular meeting is designed to fast-track investment proposals and clear bureaucratic hurdles for businesses.
The review revealed a specific financial snapshot. The state has spent approximately 50% of its 2025–26 budget so far. All departments received clear instructions. They must utilize the remaining half during the January to March quarter.
The CM's 15-Point Vision for Odisha
The 15-point agenda unveiled by Chief Minister Majhi sets a clear tone. It marks the government's renewed drive for administrative efficiency. This directive is linked to the broader goals of Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047.
The agenda urges a stronger push for knowledge-based sectors. It demands quicker approvals for industries. A strict crackdown on corruption is also a central pillar of the plan.
The directive outlines several personnel and administrative reforms:
- Fill all vacant government posts within two years.
- Post capable officers in critical roles.
- Mandate the exclusive use of Odia for all official communication.
The chief minister has issued additional instructions regarding accountability. Corrupt or underperforming officials will face tough measures. These actions include compulsory retirement. They will be pursued under Article 311 of the Constitution and the Odisha Service Rules.
