Bhubaneswar: A Pro-People Administrator, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee has directed all the officers of the Department of Revenue & Disaster Management to strictly follow the IPS principle—Integrity, Professionalism, and Sensitivity.
Dr.Padhee after taking the charge as the Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has issued a directive to all department officials and staff across the Secretariat, districts, and tehsils, outlining a ten point commitment to establish a more responsive, efficient, and credible revenue administration.
The first and primary objective is to make the revenue administration citizen centric, accountable, and reliable, as it serves as the most frequent point of contact between the state and its citizens. To achieve this, all staff are mandated to strictly follow the IPS principle—Integrity, Professionalism, and Sensitivity—ensuring that honesty is never compromised and that professional dedication is reflected in all actions
A cornerstone of this new administrative mandate is the unwavering protection of public assets. Dr. Padhee has specifically urged all officers to act as vigilant custodians of government land. Most notably, he issued a stern call for the proactive and impartial safeguarding of all lands belonging to Lord Jagannatha. He emphasized that officials must perform this duty without fear or favor, ensuring that these sacred and public properties are protected from encroachment and illegal occupation through honest and active intervention.
Sensitivity is highlighted as a core value, particularly when dealing with the poor, vulnerable groups such as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and individuals in distress. The administration has also set the timely and successful resolution of public grievances as a top priority to prevent mental distress among citizens and to restore their faith in the system. This includes ensuring fair hearings, logical decision making, and swift resolutions for all pending matters.
Technological advancement is another key pillar of the new strategy. Dr. Padhee has called for the widespread use of digital tools, viewing them not as an alternative but as essential instruments for transparency, efficiency, and superior governance. The goal is to use technology to eliminate administrative delays and directly reduce the difficulties faced by the public.
In an effort to promote local heritage, the department is encouraging its workforce to wear Odisha’s handloom clothing at least once a week, specifically recommending Fridays. This initiative is intended to honor and support the state’s traditional weavers and artisans.
Furthermore, strict codes of conduct and discipline are being enforced. The use of tobacco, pan, or alcohol in public places or within government offices while on duty is strictly prohibited. Any violation of these rules that tarnishes the department’s image will result in severe disciplinary action. Through these collective efforts, the department aims to create a disciplined and respectful environment for public service.