Will focus on ‘Odisha Vision 2036-2047’: New Chief Secretary Anu Garg

Anu Garg assumed office as Odisha’s first woman Chief Secretary, taking over the charge from outgoing Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja at Lok Seva Bhawan on Wednesday. Speaking on the occasion, Garg described the role as a great responsibility and opportunity, emphasising that the State’s progress remains her primary goal.

Also Read: Odisha’s first woman Chief Secretary Anu Garg: Journey so far & challenges ahead

The new Chief Secretary highlighted the ‘Odisha Vision 2036-2047’ document, noting that with executive collaboration, the State will work toward achieving national benchmarks by 2047. Anu Garg stressed the importance of collective effort to build a ‘Dream Odisha’ (Bikashita Odisha), tackling upcoming challenges and ensuring effective governance.

Key areas of focus, she stated, will include Ease of Doing Business, youth empowerment, tourism, and other developmental sectors. The 1991-batch Odisha cadre IAS officer will continue to serve as Chief Secretary until March 2029, playing a pivotal role in implementing the Chief Minister’s vision, especially as panchayat and municipal elections approach.

The first woman Chief Secretary’s appointment marks a historic milestone in the State’s administrative history, reflecting the growing representation of women in senior leadership positions and signalling a strategic push toward inclusive and progressive governance.

“It is a big responsibility as well as an opportunity for me to see how we can witness the progress and development of our State. We have already prepared a vision document for Odisha to take the State a long way on the path of progress by 2036. My priority will be to work towards achieving the goals for a Dream Odisha,” the new Chief Secretary said.

“Several welfare schemes, including the ambitious Subhadra Yojana and Krishi Samruddhi Yojana, were previously announced. Lots of work has also been done in this regard. I am immensely happy that I had an opportunity to work with the Government, which had clarity of working for the people,” the outgoing Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja expressed.