By Yajati Rout

Copyright pragativadi

The event saw 1,686 candidates receiving appointment letters across seven departments, marking another milestone in the state’s efforts to boost employment opportunities.

The appointments were distributed as follows: 982 in the Health and Family Welfare Department, 413 in the Water Resources Department, 34 in the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, 136 in the Skill Development and Technical Education Department, 23 in the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department, 61 in the Finance Department, and 37 in the Law Department. This fair was the second recruitment event in the state government’s second year, showcasing its commitment to filling government positions transparently and efficiently.

In his address, Chief Minister Majhi congratulated the recruits and urged them to uphold integrity and transparency in their work. “Your duty is to execute your responsibilities within the framework of government policies. Stay above corruption, work diligently, earn respect, and make integrity an integral part of your work culture,” he advised. He emphasised that serving the public, particularly the underprivileged, would bring immense satisfaction and earn the goodwill of the people, which he described as the “greatest asset” for public servants.

Highlighting the government’s achievements, Majhi noted that in just 15 months, 11 recruitment fairs have facilitated 30,032 government job appointments. He reaffirmed the government’s goal to fill 65,000 government posts within its first two years, with an additional 40,000 vacancies targeted for completion by June 2026. Additionally, the state has created 107,926 jobs in both the government and private sectors during this period, reflecting its focus on addressing youth unemployment.

Majhi also praised the transparent and merit-based recruitment process, stating that no allegations of corruption or irregularities have surfaced during the examinations conducted under his administration. “Whenever even the slightest hint of irregularity arises, we take immediate and strict action,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to providing a level playing field for all candidates.

Among the new appointees, Shivani Shadangi from Sambalpur, who joined the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, and Bishwajit Pradhan from Cuttack, appointed to the Finance Department, expressed gratitude for the transparent and impartial selection process. The Chief Minister personally handed over appointment letters to 30 recruits during the event.

Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo congratulated the appointees and reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises. “Our target is to provide 1.5 lakh jobs in five years, and we have already crossed 30,000 appointments. We will fill all vacant posts within this period,” he said.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling, in his welcome address, highlighted the government’s dedication to filling vacant posts across departments and improving healthcare services for Odisha’s citizens.

Other dignitaries present included Law and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Gokulananda Mallik, Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, and Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg.