Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to align with national practices, the Odisha government has decided to shift the observance of Panchayati Raj Dibas from March 5 to April 24.
According to an official press release, the decision, approved by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, aims to resolve the inconsistency between the state and national celebrations of the day dedicated to grassroots democracy.
Since 2020, Odisha had been observing March 5 as Panchayati Raj Dibas. However, nationally, the day is celebrated on April 24, coinciding with the anniversary of the enactment of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which institutionalized Panchayati Raj systems in India. On this day, representatives from across the country are honoured with awards such as the National Panchayat Awards, Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Awards, and Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme Awards.
The state government’s decision to shift the celebration to April 24 ensures uniformity with the national observance. Additionally, Lok Seva Dibas (Public Service Day) will also be celebrated on the same date.
March 5, however, will continue to hold special significance in Odisha as it marks the birth anniversary of the state’s iconic leader, Biju Patnaik. The government has announced that this day will be commemorated with grand celebrations, though it will not be observed as a public holiday.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to aligning state practices with national standards while honouring the legacy of Biju Patnaik, who played a pivotal role in shaping Odisha’s development trajectory.
The move has been welcomed by stakeholders, who believe it will strengthen the Panchayati Raj system and ensure greater participation in national-level initiatives.
