The year 2024 marked a transformative chapter in Odisha’s political landscape, as the BJP successfully wrested power from the long-standing BJD government. This transition not only redefined governance priorities but also set the stage for significant welfare reforms, infrastructure development, and a renewed focus on Odia pride under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
A New Era of Governance
The BJP’s rise to power was driven by a strong emphasis on Odia Asmita (Odia pride) and a promise of change. Upon assuming office on June 12, 2024, the Majhi-led government made bold moves, including reopening all four gates of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri and restoring access to the Ratna Bhandar, delivering on a key election promise. These decisions resonated deeply with the people, particularly devotees, and highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing cultural and spiritual aspirations.
In July, the BJP government presented Odisha’s highest-ever annual budget of ₹2.65 lakh crore, prioritizing inclusive growth and unveiling 19 new initiatives targeting farmers, women, youth, and marginalized communities. Notable among these were the Subhadra Yojana, aimed at financial empowerment of women, and the Samrudha Krushak Yojana, which raised paddy procurement prices to ₹3,100 per quintal to benefit farmers.
Welfare and Development
The Majhi government launched several welfare programs, including:
- Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana: ₹5,000 financial assistance to tribal students to curb dropouts.
- Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY): Providing cashless health coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family annually.
To promote Odisha as an investment destination, the government conducted international roadshows and secured a landmark joint venture deal between JSW Group and POSCO for a mega steel plant in Keonjhar, overcoming hurdles that had stalled similar projects in the past.
Cultural and Economic Vision
The BJP government allocated ₹500 crore for promoting Jagannath culture and ₹200 crore for Odia art, culture, and heritage. It also unveiled the Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047 documents, aligning with India’s national aspiration of becoming a developed country by 2047. The vision seeks to position Odisha as a $1.5 trillion economy by 2047, making it a leader in industrial and cultural development.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite its successes, the BJP government faced significant challenges, including hooch deaths in Ganjam, communal tensions in Balasore and Bhadrak, and the tragic deaths of tribal women in Kandhamal due to administrative lapses. The fall of Lord Balabhadra from the chariot during Rath Yatra was another embarrassment. However, the government’s swift responses and focus on accountability demonstrated resilience and a commitment to addressing public grievances.
A Paradigm Shift in Governance
The Majhi administration implemented a major bureaucratic reshuffle, emphasizing political leadership over bureaucratic dominance. This shift was aimed at enhancing accountability and efficiency, signaling a departure from the BJD’s governance style.
Conclusion
Odisha’s political shift in 2024 under the BJP has been a mix of bold reforms, cultural rejuvenation, and developmental ambitions. While challenges remain, the Majhi government’s emphasis on welfare, infrastructure, and Odia pride reflects a dynamic approach to governance. As the state gears up for its centenary in 2036, the BJP’s roadmap could well define the trajectory of Odisha’s growth in the years to come.
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