Will Handle Home, General Administration, Finance, Among Other Departments; Cabinet Expansion Expected Soon
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has kept several key departments under his direct supervision as he allocated portfolios among the council of ministers on Saturday. Majhi, the BJP’s first Chief Minister in Odisha, will oversee the home, general administration, finance, water resources, information and public relations, and planning and convergence departments. This strategic move underscores his intent to maintain tight control over the state’s crucial administrative and financial machinery.
Deputy Chief Ministers and Key Portfolios
Among the two deputy chief ministers, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo has been assigned agriculture, farmers’ empowerment, and energy, while Pravati Parida will handle women and child development, and tourism. These assignments reflect the BJP’s focus on bolstering agriculture and energy sectors and addressing women’s and children’s welfare, crucial areas for the state’s development.
Strategic Cabinet Assignments
Suresh Pujari
Cabinet Minister Suresh Pujari has been entrusted with revenue and disaster management, which involves dealing with land-related issues and boundary disputes with neighboring states. This portfolio is vital for maintaining state stability and addressing natural calamities effectively.
Rabi Narayan Naik
Tribal leader Rabi Narayan Naik, a four-time MLA, will oversee rural development and panchayati raj. His extensive legislative experience positions him well to manage and enhance rural infrastructure and governance.
Nityananda Gond
Nityananda Gond, a two-time legislator and another prominent tribal face, will be responsible for school and mass education, SC/ST development, and social security and empowerment of persons with disabilities. His role is critical for ensuring inclusive growth and education.
Krushna Chandra Patra
First-time MLA Krushna Chandra Patra has been assigned food supplies and consumer welfare, emphasizing the importance of food security and consumer rights.
Prithiviraj Harichandan
Senior leader Prithiviraj Harichandan, a first-time assembly member, will manage law, public works, and excise. His portfolios are essential for legal affairs, infrastructure development, and regulation of excise policies.
Mukesh Mahaling
Mukesh Mahaling, a PhD holder and a significant voice of the BJP in the previous assembly, will handle parliamentary affairs, health and family welfare, and electronics and information technology, sectors crucial for legislative efficiency, healthcare, and technological advancement.
Bibhuti Bhusan Jena
First-time MLA Bibhuti Bhusan Jena will oversee steel and mines, and commerce and transport. These departments are key to leveraging Odisha’s rich mineral reserves and enhancing trade and transportation infrastructure.
Krushna Chandra Mohapatra
Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, with a background in Ayurvedic medicine, will handle housing and urban development along with public enterprises, focusing on urban planning and development.
Ministers of State with Independent Charge
Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia
Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia will lead the forest and environment, and labour and employees state insurance departments, crucial for environmental conservation and addressing labor issues, especially in a state facing significant migration.
Suryabanshi Suraj
Suryabanshi Suraj, the youngest minister, will manage higher education, sports and youth affairs, and Odia language, literature, and culture, highlighting a commitment to education and cultural preservation.
Pradeep Balsamant
Pradeep Balsamant will handle cooperation, handlooms, textiles, and handicrafts, sectors vital for promoting local crafts and industries.
Gokulananda Mallik
Gokulananda Mallik will oversee fisheries and animal resources, and micro, small, and medium enterprises, focusing on boosting local entrepreneurship and resource management.
Sampad Swain
Sampad Swain will manage industries, skill development, and technical education, crucial for industrial growth and skill enhancement.
Future Cabinet Expansion
With only 15 ministers inducted against a permissible limit of 21, and several ministers managing multiple departments, sources indicate that Chief Minister Majhi might expand his cabinet soon and re-allocate portfolios to balance responsibilities and enhance governance efficiency.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the oath-taking ceremony on June 12 at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, signaling strong support from the central leadership. The new cabinet, with a mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces, is poised to drive Odisha towards a path of growth and development under Majhi’s leadership.