As we approach the close of 2024 and prepare to step into the New Year, it offers a moment to reflect on the individuals from Odisha who truly captured public attention this year. Whether through their accomplishments, controversies, or significant influence in their respective fields, these personalities became key figures in the headlines. Their actions, decisions, and presence in the spotlight have shaped conversations, sparked debates, and influenced public perceptions in diverse sectors. Let’s take a closer look at these individuals from Odisha who became newsmakers this year, for both commendable and contentious reasons.
Mohan Charan Majhi:
Mohan Charan Majhi’s elevation to the Chief Minister’s post has made him a standout figure in Odisha’s political landscape for 2024. A five-time MLA from Keonjhar and a leader of tribal origin, Majhi embodies grassroots empowerment and unwavering integrity. His strong opposition to corruption, illegal mining, and proselytization of tribals has earned him widespread respect and solidified his connection with Odisha’s marginalized communities.
Despite stiff competition from seasoned leaders, Majhi’s humility, accessibility, and commitment to public welfare set him apart. Known for his simple lifestyle and dedication, he once spent nights on Bhubaneswar’s pavements awaiting a government quarter, a story that deeply resonated with the public. His RSS background and disciplined approach further reinforced his credentials as a consensus leader.
Backed by BJP stalwarts like Ashwini Vaishnaw and Jual Oram, Majhi’s appointment reflects a strategic move to strengthen the party’s tribal outreach and focus on good governance. His leadership marks a new chapter for Odisha, making him a deserving newsmaker and a symbol of hope for the state’s future. Though Majhi was always the dark horse in the chief minister’s race, the final announcement about his selection left many surprised.
Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo:
Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, a seasoned leader of the BJP and scion of the Patnagarh royal family, emerges as a newsmaker in Odisha in 2024 by reclaiming his Patnagarh Assembly seat. A six-time MLA, Singh Deo’s political journey spans over three decades, with a tenure marked by significant contributions as a cabinet minister in the BJD-BJP coalition government from 2000 to 2009. Following a narrow defeat in 2019, his return to the Assembly in 2024, overcoming a stiff challenge from BJD’s Saroj Meher, underscored his enduring appeal among voters and his unwavering commitment to public service.
A prominent figure in Odisha’s political landscape, Singh Deo has been instrumental in shaping the BJP’s presence in the state. Serving as the party’s state president from 2013 to 2016, he played a key role in strengthening its organizational framework. His tenure as Minister of Industries and Urban Development saw him spearheading initiatives that boosted Odisha’s infrastructure and industrial growth. The 2024 elections marked not only his comeback but also highlighted his strategic leadership as the BJP stormed to power in the state, ending the BJD’s 24-year rule.
Given his extensive experience, leadership credentials, and royal lineage, Singh Deo was a strong contender for one of the Deputy Chief Minister posts in the BJP government. Notably, he is the only member of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s cabinet with prior experience as a cabinet minister in the BJD-BJP coalition government from 2000 to 2009, giving him a deep understanding of governance and policymaking. Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo, who has been entrusted with the crucial portfolios of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy, brings unparalleled expertise to the table. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes, coupled with his expertise in development and administration, makes him an invaluable asset to the new government, firmly establishing his legacy as a stalwart in Odisha politics.
Pravati Parida:
Pravati Parida’s meteoric rise as Odisha’s first female Deputy Chief Minister, despite being a first-time MLA, has solidified her status as one of the state’s top newsmakers of 2024. Representing the Nimapara constituency, Parida defeated BJD leader Dilip Kumar Nayak by 4,588 votes in a fiercely contested election. Her achievement not only marks a significant milestone for women in Odisha politics but also underscores her leadership and determination.
Parida’s journey to the Deputy CM’s office is nothing short of inspirational. A lawyer by profession with an LLB from Utkal University, she transitioned into politics after years of legal practice and serving as the women’s wing president of the BJP in Odisha. Having faced electoral defeats in 2009, 2014, and 2019, her persistence paid off in 2024, when she finally secured her seat in the state assembly. Her campaign, centred on grassroots issues and development, resonated with voters seeking meaningful change.
Her elevation to the Deputy CM role alongside KV Singh Deo highlights the BJP’s commitment to promoting diverse leadership and recognizes her potential to shape Odisha’s future. As a first-time MLA and a pioneer for women in politics, Pravati Parida’s accomplishments resonate far beyond her constituency, making her a symbol of resilience and progress in Odisha’s political landscape.
Naveen Patnaik:
Naveen Patnaik, Odisha’s longest-serving Chief Minister, made headlines in 2024 as his remarkable 24-year tenure came to an end following the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) defeat in both the state assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Revered for his quiet yet transformative leadership, Patnaik’s governance reshaped Odisha, leaving an indelible legacy. From launching landmark initiatives in health, education, and poverty alleviation to prioritizing women’s empowerment and heritage preservation through projects like the Sri Jagannath Heritage Corridor, his tenure was defined by sustained efforts to improve the state’s socio-economic landscape.
Despite his party’s electoral setback, Patnaik’s unwavering dedication to Odisha’s development garnered widespread respect. Even in defeat, he gracefully accepted the people’s verdict, marking a rare moment of dignity in contemporary politics.
Patnaik’s influence on the state remains unparalleled, with his 5T governance framework — emphasizing transparency, teamwork, and technology — setting benchmarks for effective administration. His departure from active politics also signified a critical juncture in Odisha’s political history, as the state embraced new leadership under the BJP.
Naveen Patnaik’s contributions over two decades have positioned Odisha as a model for inclusive governance and disaster resilience. As a leader who consistently prioritized public welfare over political ambition, his exit in 2024 is not merely an end of an era but a defining moment in Indian politics. This seamless transition, coupled with his enduring impact, cements Patnaik’s place as one of Odisha’s top newsmakers of 2024.
VK Pandian:
VK Pandian, a close aide of outgoing Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, emerged as one of the most discussed figures of 2024 following the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) shocking defeat in both the Odisha assembly and Lok Sabha elections. A former bureaucrat-turned-politician, Pandian announced his resignation from active politics, citing his sole intent of assisting Patnaik and expressing regret for the party’s loss. His journey from a 2000-batch IAS officer to the architect of the state’s transformational 5T governance model highlights his significant contributions to Odisha’s administrative and developmental landscape.
Pandian’s tenure was marked by the successful implementation of flagship initiatives such as the Mo Sarkar program, which emphasized citizen feedback to improve governance, and heritage projects like the Sri Jagannath Heritage Corridor. However, his deep involvement in BJD’s functioning and perceived clout within the government led to accusations of being an “outsider,” a narrative exploited by the BJP during their election campaign. The BJP’s subsequent landslide victory, which ended BJD’s 24-year reign, was partly attributed to this growing perception.
Despite the controversies, Pandian’s legacy as a reform-driven leader remains noteworthy. His ability to spearhead transformative projects while staying in the shadows of his mentor showcased his administrative acumen. His resignation, marked by humility and accountability, underscores his lasting influence on Odisha’s political and bureaucratic spheres, making him a significant newsmaker of 2024.
Laxman Bag:
Laxman Bag’s historic win over five-time Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the Kantabanji assembly constituency is a defining moment in Odisha’s politics. Born into a poor farming family and once a daily wage laborer, Bag’s journey from assisting truck drivers to becoming a transport entrepreneur reflects his grit and grassroots connection. His 2024 victory by over 16,000 votes, following a narrow loss in 2019, unseated a political giant and symbolized a shift in voter sentiment.
Bag’s campaign prioritized labour migration, unemployment, and lack of basic infrastructure, resonating with voters in Kantabanji, a migration hub for Odisha’s labourers. His focus on addressing these systemic issues contrasted sharply with Patnaik’s limited engagement in the region and fears he might abandon the seat, as with Bijepur in 2019. This connection with local issues solidified Bag’s appeal among the electorate.
Bag’s triumph marks a turning point in Odisha’s political landscape, signalling the decline of BJD’s dominance and the BJP’s growing influence. His victory embodies the aspirations of marginalized communities for change, making him one of Odisha’s top newsmakers of 2024.
Sibani Mandal:
ASHA worker Sibani Mandal from Khasmunda village, Kendrapara district, became a beacon of hope during Cyclone Dana with her extraordinary act of bravery and compassion. As evacuation orders were issued, Sibani took it upon herself to ensure the safety of an elderly, paralyzed woman unable to reach a cyclone shelter. Navigating through muddy paths and treacherous terrain, Sibani carried the woman on her back to safety. Her efforts didn’t stop there; she also assisted six other elderly villagers and two pregnant women, exemplifying unparalleled dedication to her community during a time of crisis.
Sibani’s selflessness has not only inspired countless people but also brought attention to the critical role of ASHA workers. Recognized for her heroism, she received accolades from Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, who personally praised her and directed local authorities to grant her a house under the PMAY scheme. Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling also lauded her actions, calling them an inspiration for all. The video of Sibani’s act, shared widely on social media, has touched hearts across the nation, earning her the title of a true embodiment of “Narishakti” or women’s empowerment.
Sibani’s story highlights the extraordinary commitment of India’s ASHA workers, who serve as a vital bridge between rural communities and public health services. Her courage amid Cyclone Dana reflects the resilience and strength of everyday heroes who emerge in moments of adversity. As a symbol of compassion and empowerment, Sibani Mandal’s actions cement her place as one of Odisha’s top newsmakers of 2024.
