In a significant move, during the 40th meeting chaired by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhavan, the Odisha Cabinet on Wednesday approved 10 important proposals from seven departments. Chief Secretary Anu Garg briefed the media, highlighting that the decisions cover a wide range of governance and administrative reforms.

Notable approvals included repeals of 358 Amendment Acts in the Law Department based on the Law Commission’s recommendations, amendments to the service rules for non-judicial employees of district and civil courts, and new provisions to regularize the service of High Court and District Court managers. The proposals are expected to streamline governance, enhance transparency, and improve operational efficiency across departments.

Diesel Licensing Reforms for Easier Business Operations

Significant changes were made to the high-speed diesel retail sector. Previously, the “Odisha High-Speed Diesel Dealers License Order, 1979” governed diesel sales and distribution under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. Following advice from the Central Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Cabinet approved the “Odisha High-Speed Diesel Dealers License Repeal, 2026,” removing the licensing requirement.

This move is designed to encourage business, simplify operational procedures, and provide ease of doing business for diesel retailers. Retail outlets will no longer require repeated approvals or NOCs from District Collectors or Magistrates, although existing regulations under the Essential Commodities Act will continue to govern sales.

The Cabinet’s decisions reflect the state government’s commitment to administrative reform, operational simplification, and facilitating smoother business practices across Odisha, ensuring efficiency and transparency in governance.