Odisha Government Introduces Comprehensive Disaster Preparedness Framework
The Odisha state government has officially launched a detailed 10-point strategic framework designed to significantly enhance disaster preparedness and ensure fully transparent relief operations throughout the entire state. This crucial directive was formally issued by Arabinda Padhee, who has recently taken charge as the new additional chief secretary for the department. The framework strongly emphasizes the core values of integrity, professionalism, and sensitivity—collectively known as the IPS principles—as the fundamental guiding pillars for all future disaster governance efforts.
Proactive Planning for a Vulnerable State
"Odisha, being highly vulnerable to frequent floods, cyclones, and various other natural calamities, undeniably requires a robust and resilient system of preparedness. The newly introduced framework explicitly calls for proactive advance planning, efficient resource mobilization, and strictly citizen-centric relief distribution," the official guidelines clearly state. Padhee further stressed the critical importance of launching extensive community awareness campaigns, providing comprehensive training for officials and volunteers across relevant sectors, and leveraging modern technology for real-time monitoring and seamless coordination at the field level.
Key Operational Measures and Infrastructure Focus
Among the pivotal measures meticulously outlined within the framework are the strengthening of transport and communication infrastructure specifically during emergencies, ensuring strict accident prevention and full compliance with all safety norms, and guaranteeing the completely transparent distribution of all relief materials. Special and immediate attention has been directed towards protecting vulnerable population groups, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, ensuring that essential aid reaches them without any unnecessary delay or discrimination.
Internal Reforms: Handloom Promotion and Tobacco Ban
In a notable move for internal departmental reform, Padhee also strongly advocated for the promotion and use of handloom products. He specifically instructed all officials to wear handloom attire at least once every week while attending the office. Simultaneously, Padhee issued strict and unambiguous instructions prohibiting the use of any tobacco-related products inside all office premises. He warned that any individual found violating this instruction would face severe departmental disciplinary action.
Zero-Tolerance on Corruption and Cultural Initiatives
Padhee firmly reiterated the government's absolute zero-tolerance policy regarding corruption, urging every official to strictly abide by this principle. "Revenue services are inherently sensitive to the people. To genuinely reinstate public trust, it is absolutely imperative to stay completely away from any form of corruption," he stated emphatically. Additionally, he entrusted officials with the important responsibility of protecting land belonging to the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration. He also promoted the increased use of the Odia language in everyday office work to make revenue services more accessible and citizen-centric.
