Odisha will frame social media policy: CM Mohan Charan Majhi

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Friday that the State will launch a new social media policy and expand its digital network to ensure swift, accurate, and transparent delivery of official information.

Addressing an orientation programme for Odisha Information Service (OIS) officers on emerging trends in social media, Majhi said a seamless digital communication mechanism would be established in the Information and Public Relations Department, connecting district offices with the State headquarters.

A stringent fact-checking system would also be introduced to counter misinformation and rumours circulating on digital platforms. Observing that the communication landscape had moved beyond traditional print and electronic media into the area of social media and creator economy, the Chief Minister said the government communication must adapt to changing information-consumption patterns, particularly among young people who increasingly rely on social media and Artificial Intelligence platforms.

Majhi said mobile phones have effectively become newspapers, television sets, radios and multiple communication platforms rolled into one. Majhi urged information officers to move beyond press releases and develop into competent communication professionals capable of engaging effectively with the public in digital age. The Chief Minister underscored the importance of social media monitoring and social listening to gather public feedback, identify grievances and respond promptly to emerging concerns.

Majhi said the official information must reach citizens promptly and accurately in simple language that ordinary people could easily understand. He also called for greater use of storytelling to communicate government initiatives and achievements. Instead of relying solely on statistics and dry facts, information officers should highlight human-interest stories showing how government schemes were transforming people’s lives.