Odisha Revenue & Disaster Management Minister Urges Service-Delivery Reforms

Bhubaneswar, Odisha – October 18, 2025
In a decisive move aimed at enhancing efficiency and citizen-centric governance, Odisha’s Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, called for sweeping reforms in the state’s service-delivery mechanisms. Speaking at the two-day Central Region Revenue Conference held at the Revenue Officers' Training Institute (ROTI) in Bhubaneswar, Minister Pujari emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and technology-driven solutions in revenue administration.

The conference brought together officials from ten central districts, including district collectors, tehsildars, registrars, and welfare officers, either virtually or in person. Through expert-led discussions, the event sought to identify gaps in current practices and chart a roadmap for more responsive governance.

Prioritizing Citizen-Centric Services

Minister Pujari highlighted that service delivery must revolve around the citizen, not just procedural formalities. “Revenue officers should prioritize timely, accurate, and transparent service to the public,” he said. According to him, simplifying revenue laws and procedures is key to removing bureaucratic hurdles that often frustrate citizens seeking assistance.

He also stressed that land management services, which include property registration, mutation, and dispute resolution, should be made more accessible. By streamlining processes, citizens will experience faster approvals and less administrative red tape.

“Our goal is to build a revenue system that not only serves the government but empowers citizens with clarity and ease of access,” Minister Pujari remarked.

Leveraging Technology for Efficiency

A core theme of the conference was digital transformation. Minister Pujari urged officers to adopt modern professional knowledge and technological tools to improve efficiency. This includes using digital platforms to monitor land records, automate routine tasks, and provide real-time updates to citizens.

For instance, compiling a comprehensive land status database for each jurisdiction will allow tehsildars to track property disputes, prevent fraudulent transactions, and support infrastructure development projects. Such databases also enhance transparency, making it easier to detect irregularities and encroachments.

The minister underscored that technology should not just be a backend tool but a visible, citizen-facing solution that simplifies interactions and reduces dependency on physical paperwork.

Protecting Public Assets and Government Property

Another critical concern addressed by Minister Pujari was the protection of government property. He highlighted the need for vigilance against encroachments, particularly on public lands, office spaces, and critical infrastructure.

“Government property is a public asset. Protecting it ensures resources are available for development and citizen welfare,” he stated.

Officials were urged to conduct regular inspections, maintain accurate records, and coordinate with law enforcement where encroachments occur. The minister also suggested that local authorities proactively engage with communities to prevent disputes before they escalate.

Capacity Building and Expert-Led Discussions

The conference included expert-led sessions aimed at reviewing laws and directives relevant to revenue administration. Discussions focused on practical solutions, legal awareness, and the role of officers in ensuring effective service delivery.

Participants explored case studies, debated reform strategies, and learned about technological tools that could enhance their day-to-day work. By combining policy knowledge with practical insights, the conference aimed to equip officers with the skills needed for a modernized, citizen-focused revenue administration.

Broader Implications for Odisha

The reforms advocated by Minister Pujari align with Odisha’s broader governance strategy, which seeks to:

1. Enhance transparency: Clear procedures and digitized records reduce opportunities for corruption or error.

2. Improve efficiency: Technology and streamlined processes allow faster approvals and responses.

3. Empower citizens: Easy access to services reduces frustration and strengthens trust in government.

4. Strengthen disaster management: Accurate land and property records are critical during disasters for evacuation planning, compensation, and reconstruction efforts.

By emphasizing both reform and accountability, the minister’s initiative signals a commitment to building a more responsive government machinery that is better equipped to serve Odisha’s citizens.

Challenges Ahead

While the vision is clear, several challenges could affect implementation:

• Digital literacy gaps: Officers and citizens alike need training to use new digital tools effectively.

• Data accuracy: Compiling a comprehensive land database requires meticulous verification to prevent errors.

• Coordination across departments: Reforms will require seamless collaboration between revenue, disaster management, and local governance departments.

• Infrastructure limitations: Some remote areas may lack the necessary technology or connectivity for efficient service delivery.

Minister Pujari acknowledged these challenges but stressed that a committed, step-by-step approach could overcome obstacles. He encouraged officials to adopt a proactive mindset, seek innovative solutions, and constantly monitor progress.

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Citizen Engagement and Feedback

A unique aspect of the proposed reforms is citizen engagement. Minister Pujari suggested establishing feedback mechanisms, such as surveys, digital complaint portals, and mobile applications, to measure satisfaction with revenue services.

By listening to citizens directly, the government can identify bottlenecks, improve workflows, and increase transparency. Such initiatives are expected to enhance trust between the administration and the public while fostering a culture of accountability.

The Way Forward

The Central Region Revenue Conference is just the beginning of what promises to be a comprehensive reform initiative in Odisha’s revenue administration. Key actions moving forward include:

• Implementation of land status databases in all districts.

• Digitization of all citizen-facing revenue services.

• Enhanced training programs for officers on technology adoption and legal updates.

• Periodic audits and reviews to ensure transparency and efficiency.

• Creation of a structured citizen feedback loop to continuously improve services.

By prioritizing citizen-centricity, leveraging technology, and reinforcing accountability, Odisha aims to set a benchmark in revenue and disaster management administration across India.

Conclusion

Minister Suresh Pujari’s address underscores a shift in governance philosophy—from procedural compliance to citizen-first service delivery. With reforms aimed at efficiency, transparency, and technology integration, Odisha’s revenue administration is poised to become more responsive, proactive, and inclusive.

If successfully implemented, these reforms could serve as a model for other states, demonstrating how technology, accountability, and citizen engagement can transform public service delivery.