The 27th Eastern Zonal Council (EZC) meeting, held in Ranchi, Jharkhand, concluded successfully with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi securing approval to host the 28th EZC meeting in Puri, Odisha, next year.
The proposal, presented by CM Majhi to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, was unanimously accepted by all council members, marking a significant moment for Odisha.
Upon returning to Bhubaneswar, CM Majhi addressed the media at the airport, expressing optimism about the upcoming meeting in Puri. “I extended an invitation to all members to visit the sacred land of Shree Kshetra Puri for the next EZC meeting. The decision to host it in Puri reflects Odisha’s growing prominence,” he said.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the Ranchi meeting focused on socio-economic development, with emphasis on extending schemes to remote areas, enhancing banking services, and empowering women.
The discussions in Ranchi covered critical areas such as education, healthcare, and the eradication of Naxal activities by March 31, 2026, as emphasised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
“Significant progress has been made in tackling Naxalism, and the focus remains on eliminating it completely by the set deadline,” Majhi noted. He also stressed the need to expand banking services in underserved regions of Odisha, stating, “Many areas still lack banking facilities. We aim to address this gap to foster inclusive growth.”
The meeting underscored the importance of schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Shri Anna Yojana in achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). CM Majhi highlighted Odisha’s achievements in these initiatives while advocating for further improvements in healthcare and education to ensure comprehensive development.
Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling, CM Majhi was warmly welcomed by several MLAs at Bhubaneswar airport, reflecting strong regional support.
The decision to host the 28th EZC meeting in Puri is expected to enhance Odisha’s role as a key player in regional collaboration and development.
