New Rayagada collector wants people to assess his work

Reported by Ranjan Rath
Rayagada, Feb 25:

Jaganath Mohanty, who took charge as the new collector of Odisha’s Rayagada district on Tuesday, has said his first priority will be to allow the people of the district to assess his work.

“If the people have the belief that the collector is discharging his duties sincerely, they are open to show him the way and he will do his best to fulfill their wishes”, Mohanty told newsmen after taking charge of his new assignment.

To a question on his priorities, the new collector said he has three main priorities—health, education and drinking water—for the people of the district.

“Besides, I would also give special emphasis on agriculture and the problems of the farmers of the district”.

On the Maoist activities in the district, the collector said it would not be appropriate to formulate a strategy against them without reviewing the ground realities.

“If they (Maoists) are satisfied with my work, it is always welcome. It will be better if they return to the mainstream,” Mohanty pointed out.

To a question on how he is going to energize the administration, he said “I have advised my staff to work as a team. If you are blamed, the team is blamed. Keeping this mind, don’t do anything for which you would be blamed”.

“I have also asked my staff to mend their mistakes”, he added.