In a significant administrative reshuffle, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has allocated key responsibilities to senior officers within the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). The move aims to streamline governance and enhance the efficiency of various government departments under the CMO’s oversight.
Nikunja Bihari Dhal, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, has been assigned a broad portfolio that includes Home, Finance, Public Administration, Industries, Law, Planning and Coordination, and Tourism. This comprehensive set of responsibilities positions Dhal as a pivotal figure in the state’s administrative framework, overseeing crucial sectors that are vital for Odisha’s governance and development.
Arindam Dakua, Chief Minister’s Private Secretary, will now oversee the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, Water Resources, Forest and Environment, Ports, Commerce and Transport, Energy, Steel and Mining, Odia Language, Literature and Culture, and Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Department. This allocation reflects a strategic focus on essential infrastructure and cultural sectors, highlighting the state’s commitment to balanced development across diverse areas.
Anupam Shah, Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister, has been tasked with managing Revenue and Disaster Relief, Information and Public Relations, School and Public Education, Higher Education, Skill Development and Vocational Education, and Health and Family Welfare, MSME, IT, Scheduled Castes and Tribes, Science and Technology, and Sports and Youth Affairs. Shah’s role will be crucial in managing educational and technological initiatives, as well as in supporting marginalized communities.
Prasanna Kumar Sarangi, a retired senior Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officer, will handle Housing and Urban Development, Rural Development, Parliamentary Affairs, Labour and Employment, and Excise. His experience is expected to bolster efforts in these critical sectors, especially in urban planning and rural development.
Chittrasen Rout, a senior OAS officer, has been designated to oversee Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Fisheries & Animal Resources Development (ARD), Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare, and the Cooperative Department. His responsibilities will be pivotal in addressing agricultural issues and promoting cooperative initiatives in the state.
OFS Officer Umesh Chandra Tripathi will supervise Women and Child Development, Mission Shakti, Social Security, and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. This role underscores the state’s focus on social welfare and empowerment programs.
This reshuffle reflects Chief Minister Majhi’s strategic vision for a more integrated and effective administration, aiming to foster growth and development across Odisha’s diverse sectors. The newly assigned responsibilities are expected to enhance governance, streamline operations, and ensure focused attention on key areas of public service.