Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi underlined the importance of creating a “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity” at the State-level Vigilance Awareness Week 2024, held at the Lok Seva Bhavan’s Convention Hall. The event, themed “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity,” highlighted Odisha’s ongoing efforts against corruption and sought to foster unity among citizens and officials to combat malpractices.
As the chief guest, CM Majhi administered an anti-corruption pledge to attendees, urging them to resist and report corruption at every level. Comparing corruption to a “disease with long-term consequences,” Majhi referenced former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s remark on inefficiency in the system and called for an increased commitment to transparency.
Majhi shared significant progress made by the Odisha Vigilance Directorate, reporting a conviction rate exceeding 50%, with an 80% success rate in cases involving disproportionate assets. In a bid to further bolster the department’s capabilities, the state has approved 32 new positions, including eight Additional SPs, 24 DSPs, and 16 Sub-Inspectors. These officers will be supported by specialists like Chartered Accountants, Banking, and Cyber Experts, while enhanced technology support will include 135 new motorcycles, 150 desktops, and a new State Forensic Science Laboratory for the Vigilance Directorate.
Reflecting on initiatives launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Majhi credited the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for reducing leakages, ensuring aid reaches those in need, and promoting a zero-tolerance approach to corruption. He warned that, in Odisha, corrupt officials face “jail or exile,” underscoring the government’s resolve to enforce strict consequences.
The Chief Minister also recognized the contributions of public service workers, praising ASHA worker Shivani Mandal for her dedication during the recent cyclone. He expressed optimism for Odisha’s future, with an ambitious goal of ranking among India’s top five states by 2029 and building a “Bikasita Odisha” by 2036.
The event celebrated achievements in anti-corruption efforts, with Koraput Vigilance Division awarded Best Vigilance Division and Bolangir Division recognized as Best Unit. Individual accolades included DSP Dushmant Kumar Nayak of Balasore Division for Best Investigating Officer and Sabitanjali Nayak of Berhampur Division for Best Female Investigating Officer. Bhubaneswar’s Hemant Kumar Swain was honored as Best Public Prosecutor.
Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja stressed the need for systemic reforms, reinforcing that transparency and integrity will be essential in achieving the state’s development goals. The Vigilance Awareness Week will run from October 28 to November 3, encouraging collective action in promoting integrity and anti-corruption across Odisha.