Chief Minister of Odisha
Odisha, a state in the eastern part of India, has been blessed with a rich history and a diverse cultural heritage. Over the years, the state has witnessed several remarkable leaders who have played pivotal roles in shaping its destiny. In this article, we will delve into the dynamic history of Chief Minister of Odisha, exploring their contributions, achievements, and the impact they have had on the state’s development.
List of Odisha Chief Ministers Since 1947
| Sl.No | Chief Minister | From | To | Party Name |
| 1 | Naveen Patnaik | 29 May 2019 | Present | Biju Janata Dal(BJD) |
| 2 | Naveen Patnaik | 21 May 2014 | 29 May 2019 | Biju Janata Dal(BJD) |
| 3 | Naveen Patnaik | 21 May 2009 | 21 May 2014 | Biju Janata Dal(BJD) |
| 4 | Naveen Patnaik | 16 May 2004 | 21 May 2009 | Biju Janata Dal(BJD) |
| 5 | Naveen Patnaik | 05 Mar 2000 | 16 May 2004 | Biju Janata Dal(BJD) |
| 6 | Hemananda Biswal | 17 Feb 1999 | 06 Dec 1999 | INC |
| 7 | Giridhar Gamang | 15 Mar 1995 | 17 Feb 1999 | INC |
| 8 | Janaki Ballabh Patnaik | 15 Mar 1995 | 15 Mar 1995 | INC |
| 9 | Biju Patnaik | 05 Mar 1990 | 15 Mar 1995 | Janata Dal |
| 10 | Hemananda Biswal | 07 Dec 1989 | 05 Mar 1990 | INC |
| 11 | Janaki Ballabh Patnaik | 10 Mar 1985 | 07 Dec 1989 | INC |
| 12 | Janaki Ballabh Patnaik | 09 Jun 1980 | 10 Mar 1985 | INC |
| 13 | President’s rule | 17 Feb 1980 | 09 Jun 1980 | |
| 14 | Nilamani Routray | 26 Jun 1977 | 17 Feb 1980 | Janata Party |
| 15 | President’s rule | 30 Apr 1977 | 26 Jun 1977 | |
| 16 | Binayak Acharya | 29 Dec 1976 | 30 Apr 1977 | INC |
| 17 | President’s rule | 16 Dec 1976 | 29 Dec 1976 | |
| 18 | Nandini Satpathy | 06 Mar 1974 | 16 Dec 1976 | INC |
| 19 | President’s rule | 03 Mar 1973 | 06 Mar 1974 | |
| 20 | Nandini Satpathy | 14 Jun 1972 | 03 Mar 1973 | INC |
| 21 | Biswanath Das | 03 Apr 1971 | 14 Jun 1972 | Independent |
| 22 | President’s rule | 11 Jan 1971 | 03 Apr 1971 | |
| 23 | Rajendra Narayan Singh Deo | 08 Mar 1967 | 09 Jan 1971 | Swatantra Party |
| 24 | Sadashiva Tripathy | 21 Feb 1965 | 08 Mar 1967 | INC |
| 25 | Biren Mitra | 02 Oct 1963 | 21 Feb 1965 | INC |
| 26 | Biju Patnaik | 23 Jun 1961 | 02 Oct 1963 | INC |
| 27 | President’s rule | 25 Feb 1961 | 23 Jun 1961 | |
| 28 | Harekrushna Mahatab | 22 May 1959 | 25 Feb 1961 | INC |
| 29 | Harekrushna Mahatab | 06 Apr 1957 | 22 May 1959 | INC |
| 30 | Harekrushna Mahatab | 19 Oct 1956 | 06 Apr 1957 | INC |
| 31 | Nabakrushna Choudhury | 20 Feb 1952 | 19 Oct 1956 | INC |
| 32 | Nabakrushna Choudhury | 12 May 1950 | 20 Feb 1952 | INC |
| 33 | Harekrushna Mahatab | 15 Aug 1947 | 12 May 1950 | INC |
The Early Years
The journey of Odisha’s Chief Ministers begins with the state’s formation in 1936. Sir Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Deo, the first Prime Minister of Odisha, served as the leader of the state until 1937 when he was succeeded by Harekrushna Mahtab, the first Chief Minister. Harekrushna Mahtab, a prominent freedom fighter, played a crucial role in the early governance of the state, paving the way for future leaders.
The Era of Visionaries
As Odisha embarked on its post-independence journey, visionary leaders like Biju Patnaik and Nandini Satpathy took the helm. Biju Patnaik, the charismatic leader and founder of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), served as the Chief Minister twice (1961-1963 and 1990-1995). His tenure witnessed significant progress in the fields of industrialization, infrastructure development, and social welfare.
Nandini Satpathy, Odisha’s first woman Chief Minister, held office from 1972 to 1976. Her leadership was marked by initiatives to empower women and improve education, making her a trailblazer in the state’s political history.
The Emergence of Naveen Patnaik
The most significant turning point in Odisha’s political landscape came with the ascent of Naveen Patnaik, the charismatic leader who has held the position of Chief Minister since 2000. Naveen Patnaik’s leadership has been marked by a series of unprecedented achievements, making him one of India’s longest-serving Chief Ministers.
Naveen Patnaik’s leadership has been synonymous with good governance, welfare programs, and industrial growth. His administration introduced transformative schemes like the “Mo Kudia” program, which aims to provide rice at a subsidized rate to millions of households in the state. His focus on disaster management and relief efforts during cyclones and natural calamities has earned him widespread praise.
Economic Development and Industrialization
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Odisha has witnessed remarkable economic growth and industrial development. The state has attracted significant investments in sectors like steel, power, and information technology. The development of infrastructure, including the construction of ports, airports, and highways, has further facilitated economic progress.
The ‘Make in Odisha’ initiative has been pivotal in positioning the state as an industrial hub. The establishment of several industrial parks, SEZs, and the successful organization of the “Make in Odisha” Conclave have spurred economic growth and job creation in the state.
Education and Healthcare Reforms
Another significant area of focus for Odisha’s Chief Ministers has been the improvement of education and healthcare. Initiatives like the “Mo School” program aim to transform the state’s educational landscape by encouraging alumni, organizations, and individuals to adopt schools and contribute to their development.
In healthcare, the “Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana” is a landmark program that offers free healthcare services to over 70 lakh families in the state. The development of medical colleges and hospitals, along with the deployment of telemedicine services in rural areas, has significantly improved healthcare accessibility.
Women’s Empowerment
Empowering women has been a recurring theme in the governance of Odisha. Chief Ministers like Nandini Satpathy, and more recently, Naveen Patnaik, have introduced various schemes to uplift women in the state. The “Mission Shakti” initiative, which aims to enhance the socio-economic status of women through self-help groups, has been particularly successful.
Social Welfare and Inclusive Growth
Odisha’s Chief Ministers have always strived for inclusive growth and social welfare. Schemes like the “KALIA” (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) program have provided direct financial assistance to farmers, landless agricultural laborers, and vulnerable households. This initiative has been a lifeline for many in the agricultural sector.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The development of infrastructure and connectivity is crucial for the overall growth of the state. Odisha’s Chief Ministers have consistently invested in the expansion of road networks, bridges, and ports to facilitate trade and commerce. The construction of Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar and the expansion of Paradip Port have played pivotal roles in enhancing connectivity.
Disaster Management
Odisha is prone to natural disasters, including cyclones and floods. Chief Ministers have consistently focused on disaster management and relief efforts. The successful evacuation and preparedness during Cyclone Fani in 2019 saved countless lives and showcased the state’s disaster resilience.
Cultural and Tourism Promotion
Odisha is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites. Chief Ministers have taken various initiatives to promote the state’s art, culture, and tourism. Festivals like the Konark Dance Festival and the Puri Beach Festival have attracted national and international visitors. The preservation and restoration of heritage sites like the Sun Temple in Konark and the Jagannath Temple in Puri have been prioritized.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While Odisha has made significant progress under the leadership of its Chief Ministers, there are still challenges to overcome. Issues like poverty, unemployment, and environmental concerns remain on the agenda. The state will need to strike a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
Odisha’s Chief Ministers have played a vital role in shaping the state’s trajectory. From the early years of Harekrushna Mahtab to the present leadership of Naveen Patnaik, each era has brought its own unique contributions and challenges. The state has made significant strides in economic development, healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and disaster management.
As Odisha looks to the future, the state must continue to build on its successes and address its remaining challenges. The legacy of its Chief Ministers will undoubtedly continue to influence the state’s journey towards prosperity and progress.