Bhubaneswar, 15 January (H.S.): Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Thursday chaired a secretary-level meeting at Kharavela Bhavan to review the status of vacant posts across government departments and assess the progress of ongoing development projects. This was the second such meeting since she assumed office.

A key focus of the meeting was the large number of vacant positions in various departments and the need to expedite recruitment. Referring to a recent communication issued by the Home Department, the Chief Secretary stressed that priority should be given to filling critical posts. She directed officials to ensure that appointments are made strictly in accordance with the instructions of the Chief Minister and the State Government so that essential positions do not remain vacant.

The meeting also took stock of budget allocations made to different departments during the previous budget session. Senior officials reviewed the extent of work completed so far and identified areas requiring additional attention. Discussions centred on strategies to achieve departmental objectives within the approved budgetary framework while ensuring efficiency and timely implementation.

The Chief Secretary was informed that the State Government has set a target of creating around 1.5 lakh government jobs over the next two years. Recruitment efforts are already underway, with 13 Nijukti Melas organised recently and appointment letters issued to selected candidates.

The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to systematic filling of vacancies and effective execution of development projects, aimed at strengthening administrative efficiency while advancing employment generation across the State.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda