Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held a meeting with the newly appointed chairpersons and vice‑chairpersons of Odisha’s Tribal Development Councils at Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Centre, emphasising the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and service to the last mile.
Addressing representatives from 23 Tribal Development Councils, Majhi urged them to work with dedication and patience, highlighting that governance is not about enjoying power but about serving the poorest sections of society. “Reach the last line of society and work for the people. That is Antyodaya,” he said.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of field visits to understand local issues and advised council leaders to bring problems to the notice of district officials and departments for timely resolution. He underscored the government’s belief in action over words, encouraging leaders to adopt a ‘Yes, We Can’ spirit in serving communities.
Majhi noted that nearly one‑fourth of Odisha’s population belongs to tribal communities, who remain far behind in development. He called for sincere efforts to deliver progress while preserving tribal language, art, and culture. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mantra of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development as well as Heritage), Majhi said Odisha must advance without neglecting its rich cultural heritage.
The CM highlighted several state initiatives for tribal welfare, including reservation in technical education, the Shaheed Madho Singh Assistance Scheme, enhanced pre‑matric scholarships, and support for micro‑enterprise under the CM Tribal Livelihood Mission. He also pointed to central schemes such as Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, Dharti Aaba Janbhagidari Abhiyan, and PM Janman, noting that under Article 275(1) of the Constitution, Odisha has received ₹18,371 crore for tribal development and welfare.
Tribal Development Minister Nityananda Gond said the councils were formed to ensure development reaches the grassroots and to safeguard tribal art, culture, and heritage. Chief Secretary Anu Garg praised the model of appointing both a male and female representative to each council, calling it a step toward achieving the state’s Vision 2036.
Development Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh and Tribal Welfare Commissioner B. Parameswaran also participated in the meeting.
