Odisha Government Says State Ready for Possible El Nino Effects

The Odisha government urged residents not to panic over a potential El Nino episode, stating that the state is fully prepared with contingency measures. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, accompanied by Additional Chief Secretary Arabinda Padhee, said normal monsoon rainfall is expected and that existing water‑conservation, irrigation and irrigation‑project initiatives will mitigate any shortfall. The department has drafted alternative strategies with the agriculture ministry and other agencies to address possible rainfall deficits, while highlighting recent achievements such as new land‑cell offices and disaster‑compensation processes.

Opposition leader Lenin Mohanty of the BJD criticised the administration for delays in land‑record updates and compensation cases, but the minister reiterated confidence in the state's preparedness and indicated forthcoming reforms, including a new Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act.