Odisha’s New IT Minister Prioritizes Digital Initiatives and Governance

Bhubaneswar: Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, the newly appointed Minister for Electronics and Information Technology in Odisha, undertook a comprehensive review of the state’s IT landscape at the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) in Bhubaneswar today. The meeting, attended by Principal Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev and other senior officials, focused on assessing the current projects and future plans of the Electronics and Information Technology Department.

During the session, Principal Secretary Vishal Dev extended a warm welcome to the Minister, marking the beginning of discussions on various key initiatives of the department. The Minister was briefed on the pivotal role played by the Electronics and Information Technology Department in delivering e-Governance services to citizens through technological interventions.

Key projects such as the Odisha State Data Centre, Odisha State Wide Area Network (OSWAN), Cyber Security Operation Centre (CSOC), and others were highlighted, showcasing their evolution and impact over the years. The Minister acknowledged the critical importance of these initiatives in enhancing governance and service delivery across the state.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mukesh Mahaling reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling its electoral promises and serving the common people effectively. He emphasized the government’s dedication to leveraging technology to meet the aspirations of the citizens, aligning with the Digital India initiative of the Government of India.

Dr. Mahaling outlined several key priorities for the IT sector, including attracting new IT companies to Odisha, creating a favorable ecosystem for investors, and promoting the Odia Virtual Academy through workshops and virtual literary discussions. He also underscored the importance of improving mobile network and internet connectivity in rural areas to ensure inclusivity and access to digital services.