Action in Bolangir: 11 BEOs penalized, salaries withheld for ‘negligence’ in plantation drive

In an unusual disciplinary move, the District Education Officer (DEO) of Bolangir has withheld the salaries of 11 Block Education Officers (BEOs) for failing to meet targets under the government’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ tree plantation campaign.

The initiative, aimed at encouraging large-scale plantation drives across Odisha, saw poor performance in Bolangir district compared to others. The DEO took strong exception to the lack of progress and noted that the 11 BEOs had not fulfilled their responsibilities in executing the campaign effectively.

As a result, their salaries for the month of July have been withheld until further notice. Officials confirmed that the action was taken to enforce accountability and ensure better participation in future drives.

The move has stirred discussions within the education administration, raising questions about the extent of non-teaching responsibilities assigned to education officers.

According to sources, the DEO has directed that the block education officers will be withheld until the target is met.
On June 5, 2025, on the occasion of Environment Day, PM Narendra Modi had launched Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0, an initiative to build a green world.

No comments from the BEOs could be obtained on the development.