Bhubaneswar: Stressing the pivotal role of grassroots administration, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday said that the government’s success will be judged by the efficiency of its blocks and the extent to which citizens benefit from development schemes.
Addressing a state-level conference of Chief Development Officers (CDOs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) at the Convention Centre in Lok Seva Bhawan, Majhi declared, “Our blocks are the mirror of our administrative success. If the blocks function efficiently and people benefit from all schemes, it will be proof of the government’s competence.”
He emphasized that the CDOs and BDOs act as the critical link between the government and the people. “You are the bridge. A strong and wide bridge ensures better communication and delivery. These schemes are not charity—they are the people’s right. Never treat the public as objects of pity,” he said.
Asserting his commitment to public service, Majhi said, “Prime Minister Modi calls himself the Pradhan Sevak, and I too consider myself the Chief Servant of Odisha. You must work with the same mindset. Corruption and negligence will not be tolerated.” He issued a clear warning that any dereliction of duty would result in strict action.
The conference comes as the state seeks to enhance the delivery of key rural welfare schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Antyodaya Griha Yojana, MGNREGS, Viksit Gaon Viksit Odisha, Subhadra, Vision 2036, and Vision 2047.
On the implementation of MGNREGS, the Chief Minister reiterated his recent directive to ban the use of machines and ensure that at least 100 days of employment are provided annually using human labour. “This will curb migration and offer livelihood support where it’s needed most,” he said, calling for regular field inspections and inter-departmental coordination.
Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik echoed the CM’s message, citing Mahatma Gandhi’s belief that national progress depends on the development of villages. “The Chief Minister’s vision must become your priority,” he urged the attending officers.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja added that rural development remains the cornerstone of Odisha’s growth strategy. “Take the mantra of development to every block,” he instructed.
The two-day workshop brought together CDOs from all 30 districts and BDOs from 314 blocks of the state. Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department Girish S.N gave the welcome address, with Director of Drinking Water and Sanitation Vineet Bhardwaj proposing the vote of thanks.
The conference marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to build a more responsive, accountable, and grassroots-driven governance system.
