Bhubaneswar, December 24: The year 2025 marked a critical turning point in Odisha's political landscape, as the state saw major developments under the BJP-led government of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. With significant political shifts and opposition restructuring, the year set the stage for the upcoming days.

Key Government Events and Milestones

2025 is a year of major events that highlighted the BJP government's growing influence and Odisha’s role on both national and international stages:

1. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) – January 2025Held from January 8 to 10, Odisha hosted the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, celebrating the contributions of the Indian diaspora. The event elevated Odisha’s global profile and reinforced its commitment to the “Act East Policy” and the “Purvodaya” development initiative.

2. Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave – January 2025The “Utkarsh Odisha – 2025, Make in Odisha Conclave” in late January, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, showcased Odisha's economic potential. This flagship investment summit attracted investments worth₹16.73 lakh crore. The event highlighted the state's role as an emerging industrial hub under the “Purvodaya” vision.

3. First Anniversary Celebrations – June 2025The BJP government celebrated its first year in office in June. The event, attended by Prime Minister Modi, included "Bikash Melas" (Development Fairs) focused on women’s empowerment and tribal welfare. The government fulfilled key promises, including paddy bonuses and the reopening of the Srimandir temple.

4. Historic Presidential Address – November 2025In November, President Droupadi Murmu became the first sitting Indian President to address the Odisha Legislative Assembly. Her speech highlighted the state’s progress and envisioned its prosperity by 2036, coinciding with the state's centenary celebrations.

Legislative and Administrative Developments

In addition to high-profile events, the government focused on policy implementation and welfare schemes, although it faced challenges during legislative sessions:

1. Assembly Sessions

The Budget Session in February saw debates on welfare schemes like the Subhadra Scheme and Ayushman Bharat. The September Monsoon Session became a battleground, with opposition parties criticizing the government's handling of crime prevention and financial transparency.

2. National SC/ST Conference – August 2025

Odisha hosted the National SC/ST Welfare Committees Conference in Bhubaneswar in August, marking the first time the event was held outside New Delhi. The conference underscored Odisha’s commitment to national social justice policies.

3. Urban Development Initiatives – August 2025

The government announced the creation of 21 new Notified Area Councils (NACs) to improve governance and infrastructure in urban areas, with the upgradation of five urban areas to Municipalities.

Opposition and Political Restructuring

As the BJP consolidated its power, opposition parties restructured in anticipation of future elections:

1. BJD Restructuring

After its defeat in the 2024 elections, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), led by Naveen Patnaik, worked on strengthening grassroots connections and addressing defections to the BJP.

2. Congress Leadership Change

In early 2025, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) appointed Bhakta Charan Das as President, aiming to revitalize the party and present a credible alternative to the BJP government.

3. Nuapada By-Election – November 2025

The By-election in Nuapada in November was a significant test for the BJP government. BJP candidate Jay Dholakia won decisively with a margin of over 85,000 votes, showcasing the party's growing influence under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

A Defining Year for Odisha’s Politics

2025 was a transformative year for Odisha’s political landscape. It was marked by key events, political restructuring, and the consolidation of the BJP government’s power. As the state heads into 2026, political dynamics remain fluid, with both the ruling party and opposition gearing up for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.