By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, July 4, 2024: Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday began working at the chief minister’s office (CMO) on the third floor of the state secretariat, Lok Seva Bhavan.

Since his oath-taking ceremony on June 12, Majhi had been working from a temporary office in the state guest house while his official office underwent renovations. Before entering Lok Seva Bhawan, Majhi knelt down and then proceeded to his office chamber, accompanied by the chanting of Sanskrit slokas by priests.

Both the deputy chief ministers Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, as well as several other ministers, were present during this occasion.

He instructed officers to ensure that all files presented to him are in the Odia language and stated that all government work would be conducted in Odia, with the possibility of amending the Odisha Official Language Act if necessary.

“Apart from tangible development, emphasis will be laid on cultural development. Importance will also be given to the promotion and preservation of Odia ‘asmita’ (pride),” Majhi told reporters.

Majhi announced plans to establish a language commission to promote the Odia language and restructure the Odisha Sahitya Akademi, Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi and Lalit Kala Akademi to enhance their capabilities. The Odissi Research Centre will be strengthened to encourage quality research on Odia asmita, and efforts will be made to promote reading habits by expanding the library movement.

Furthermore, a translation academy will be established to promote Odia language and literature, and technology will be utilized for the development of the Odia language. The government also plans to set up Odisha Language Bhawan, Odia Asmita Bhawan, and Sanskruti Bhawan in all districts to promote the art and culture of each region.

Before Majhi’s appointment as chief minister, Odisha did not have an official CM’s residence. The former chief minister, Naveen Patnaik, preferred to operate from his own house during his 24-year term.

The general administration department has begun the exercise to look for an appropriate and sprawling quarter for the new chief minister’s residence. A few vacant quarters including the CM’s grievance cell have been shortlisted.