CM Majhi Reviews Departmental Expenditure, Sets 85% Utilization Target for FY 2024-25

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi conducted a review meeting at Lok Seva Bhavan to assess the expenditure of various government departments, setting an ambitious target of 85% budget utilization by the end of the financial year 2024-25. The goal surpasses last year’s 81% expenditure, reflecting the government’s focus on efficient financial management and public welfare.

Acknowledging the delays caused by elections, government transition, and the budget presentation in September, CM Majhi noted that despite these challenges, several departments have maintained a satisfactory spending pace. He urged ministers to accelerate expenditure approvals and clear pending payments under various welfare schemes to meet the revised target.

The Chief Minister placed special emphasis on Programme Expenditure and Capital Expenditure, citing their crucial role in job creation and economic growth. He highlighted that Odisha’s 6.1% allocation of its Gross Domestic Product (GSDP) to capital expenditure is the highest in the country, underscoring the state’s commitment to infrastructure development.

Departments that have demonstrated strong financial performance include Agriculture, Fisheries & Animal Resources, Health, Water Resources, Works, Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Food Supplies, and Cooperatives. CM Majhi urged other departments to step up their spending to ensure that government funds are effectively utilized for public benefit.

The review meeting was attended by key ministers, including Rabi Narayan Naik (Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water and Rural Development), Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra (Housing & Urban Development), Nityanand Gond (Schools & Mass Education, ST & SC Development, Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities), Bibhuti Bhushan Jena (Transport), and Gokulanand Mallick (Fisheries & Livestock).

Senior officials such as Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Nikunj Bihari Dhal, Principal Secretary of Finance Shashwat Mishra, and other department secretaries were also present. Principal Secretary Shashwat Mishra made a detailed presentation on the expenditure status across various departments.