Bhubaneswar: In a sharp critique that has raised eyebrows, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati slammed State Government officials for their failure to create awareness about various welfare schemes.

Speaking at a programme held at the Raj Bhavan today, the Governor expressed disappointment over the lack of knowledge among Government officials regarding key schemes. He noted during district-level meetings, he observed that many officials were unaware of several programmes initiated by the Government.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Kambhampati stated nearly 95% of the state’s population is unaware of Government schemes and welfare programmes. He added even the educated and elite sections of society are largely uninformed.

Citing examples such as the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Suraksha Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and the Atal Pension Yojana, the Governor emphasised the urgent need for better dissemination of information to ensure people benefit from these schemes.

Reacting to the Governor’s remarks, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Das said the State Government should take the criticism seriously. He further stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi should have convened a meeting with State officials to address pressing issues like cholera outbreaks and rising crimes against women. Instead, Das claimed, the Prime Minister’s recent visit was merely an eyewash with no concrete action.