In a spirited address marking the first anniversary of his government, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared that his administration has a
In a spirited address marking the first anniversary of his government, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared that his administration has achieved in 24 minutes what others might take 24 years to accomplish. Speaking at an event commemorating the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government’s first year in office, Majhi highlighted the swift decision-making of his initial cabinet meeting, setting the tone for a transformative tenure. This bold statement, echoed widely across recent posts on X, underscores the government’s focus on efficient governance and rapid delivery of promises, resonating with Odisha’s citizens eager for change.
Majhi’s claim stems from the outcomes of his government’s first cabinet meeting in June 2024, where critical decisions were made to address long-standing issues. Official statements note that the cabinet approved initiatives to enhance agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure, including a significant push for rural development. One flagship decision was the allocation of funds for the Subhadra Yojana, a scheme aimed at empowering women through financial assistance. This move, according to experts, reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, addressing the needs of marginalized communities in Odisha’s rural heartlands.
The Odisha government has also prioritized infrastructure development, with projects like the Puri-Konark railway line and improvements in urban mobility gaining momentum. Recent reports indicate that the cabinet’s decisions have expedited stalled projects, such as the drinking water initiative for tribal areas, which Majhi highlighted as a key achievement. “We don’t need decades to deliver; our focus is on action within minutes,” Majhi stated, emphasizing a governance model rooted in urgency and accountability. This approach has sparked optimism, with X posts praising the government’s proactive stance, though some users urge caution, citing the need for sustained results.
Education and skill development have also been focal points. The government’s collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) to translate course materials into Odia aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to make higher education accessible to Odia-speaking students. This initiative, backed by a ₹2 crore investment, complements Majhi’s vision of empowering youth through regional language education. Experts note that such measures could bridge the urban-rural divide, ensuring that students in remote areas have access to quality resources.
However, the government’s bold claims have not been without scrutiny. Critics argue that while the first cabinet meeting set an ambitious tone, the implementation of promises requires rigorous follow-through. For instance, the drinking water project, though approved, remains incomplete in several districts, as noted in recent reports. Educators and analysts stress that translating ambitious decisions into tangible outcomes will be the true test of Majhi’s leadership. Public sentiment on X reflects this duality, with some hailing the government’s intent and others calling for transparency in project timelines and outcomes.
Majhi’s administration has also leaned heavily on cultural pride to connect with Odisha’s populace. The Rath Yatra in Puri, a globally recognized festival, saw enhanced state support in 2024, boosting tourism and local economies. By aligning governance with cultural initiatives, the government aims to foster a sense of unity and progress. Majhi’s repeated emphasis on fulfilling public aspirations in “24 minutes” rather than “24 years” draws a sharp contrast with the previous administration, led by Naveen Patnaik, which governed for over two decades.
As Odisha moves forward, Majhi’s government faces the challenge of sustaining its momentum. The first year has laid a foundation of bold promises and swift decisions, but the road ahead demands consistent delivery. With initiatives spanning women’s empowerment, education, and infrastructure, the administration has set high expectations. Whether the “24 minutes” rhetoric translates into lasting change will depend on effective execution and public trust, both of which are critical for Odisha’s aspirations to become a model of progressive governance in India.
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