Bhubaneswar, Odisha: Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Department Additional Chief Secretary Dr Aravind Kumar Padhee has urged all officers and employees of the department to uphold transparency, integrity, sensitivity and public service while discharging their official responsibilities.

In a letter addressed to departmental colleagues, Dr Padhee expressed deep anguish over the recent incident involving a young Odisha Revenue Service (ORS) officer allegedly caught by Vigilance while accepting a bribe. He described the incident as distressing and called upon officials to treat it as a serious warning against compromising ethical standards in government service.

Government Service Is a Responsibility, Not Just a Profession

Dr Padhee emphasised that government employment is not merely a means of livelihood but an opportunity to serve the people. He cautioned against judging the entire department's performance and reputation based on an isolated incident, expressing confidence that the majority of officers and employees continue to serve citizens with dedication, honesty and commitment.

He reaffirmed his personal commitment to maintaining ethics, discipline and transparency in the functioning of the department.

Zero Tolerance for Corruption

Calling for strict adherence to rules and regulations, the senior bureaucrat urged officials to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and ensure that no negligence or compromise takes place in the discharge of official duties.

He also stressed the importance of mutual respect, cooperation and professional integrity among officials at every level to create a healthy, positive and constructive working environment.

Public Trust Is Our Greatest Asset

Dr Padhee called upon departmental officials to utilise their skills and capabilities to the fullest to fulfil public expectations and strengthen citizen-centric governance.

He underlined that maintaining public confidence in the Revenue Department and preserving its dignity and reputation is a collective responsibility.

“Public trust is our greatest asset,” he conveyed, urging officials to remain conscientious, uphold human values and place the interests of citizens at the forefront of their responsibilities.

The message comes at a time when the department is reinforcing the importance of ethical governance, accountability and public confidence in government administration.