Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today conducted a comprehensive review of the expenses of various departments at Lok Seva Bhavan.
Emphasizing the importance of programs and capital expenditures, he urged all departments to utilize the remaining month to improve their expenditure levels.
For the financial year 2023-24, the total expenditure was 81 percent. For the current financial year (2024-25), the Chief Minister suggested that at least 85 percent should be spent. With elections approaching and a new government set to take charge, he highlighted the need for a complete budget to be prepared.
Majhi acknowledged the challenges in managing expenditures due to September but noted that many departments have shown satisfactory expenditure levels. He urged all ministers to ensure immediate study and approval of their proposed expenditures and to settle any outstanding dues under various welfare schemes promptly and according to the rules.
Highlighting the significance of programs and capital expenditures for creating employment and enhancing growth, Majhi pointed out that Odisha has recorded a capital expenditure of 6.1 percent of its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), the highest in the country. The objective is to increase economic activity across various sectors, including agriculture, which necessitates significant infrastructure development and investment.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the budget is prepared for the people, and the administration must prioritize spending that benefits the citizens. Reports indicated that departments such as agriculture, fisheries, health, and social justice have relatively good expenditure levels. Majhi advised other departments to boost their expenditure as well.
Participating in the major review were Ministers Rabi Narayan Naik (Panchayat Raj and Drinking Water and Rural Development), Dr. Krushnachandra Mohapatra (Housing and Urban Development Education), and various other officials. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja and Principal Secretary, Finance, Saswata Mishra, presented information regarding the expenditure of various departments.
