Bhubaneswar: A conference of Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) was held at State Vigilance Academy Bhubaneswar on Saturday bringing together CVOs from various state government departments in person, while CVOs from State Public Sector Undertakings and Heads of Departments joined virtually.
The conference, inaugurated by Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, served as a platform to discuss advancements in vigilance, transparency, and anti-corruption measures within Odisha.
Director of Vigilance Y.K. Jethwa welcomed the attendees, highlighting the Vigilance Organization’s recent achievements, including significant corruption cases, asset seizures, and other preventive actions.
DGP Khurania, as the chief guest, emphasized the importance of internal vigilance and urged the CVOs to ensure proper utilization of government funds and plug any procedural loopholes that could enable corruption. He stressed the need for transparency and accountability across all departments and State PSUs, urging each department to replicate best practices for enhanced vigilance.
The DGP also unveiled an E-Book titled “Preventive Vigilance,” which consolidates Odisha government guidelines, circulars, and executive orders to assist CVOs in effectively implementing vigilance measures. He encouraged technology-based interventions to improve transparency and prevent corrupt practices in public service delivery, also referencing the Odisha Rights to Public Service Act, which mandates time-bound delivery of public services.
The conference featured presentations by several key speakers, including Dhobei Charan Sahoo, retired Additional Secretary of the General Administration Department, who provided insights into the structure and functioning of the CVO system in Odisha.
M Akhay, former DGP of Home Guards and Fire Services, discussed enhancing internal vigilance, and Satya Priya Ratha, Director Budget and Additional Secretary of the Finance Department, addressed the importance of coordination between Odisha Vigilance and CVOs.
The event concluded with the DGP presenting awards to winners of inter-college and university essay, debate, and quiz competitions held during Vigilance Awareness Week 2024.
Odisha Vigilance remains committed to combating corruption, with this conference marking a significant step toward enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency within government operations.
