Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida have announced their decision to abstain from New Year celebrations in light of the recent passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the crop loss suffered by farmers due to unseasonal rains.

In an official statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the Chief Minister’s Office, Majhi emphasized the need for solidarity during the seven-day national mourning period for the late Manmohan Singh. The message read, “The Honorable Chief Minister Shri @MohanMOdisha will not officially participate in any celebrations/congratulatory programmes on the occasion of the upcoming English New Year.”

Additionally, the Chief Minister expressed concern for farmers across Odisha who have faced significant crop losses due to recent unseasonal rainfall, further justifying his decision to forgo celebrations.

The Chief Minister has urged citizens, well-wishers, and supporters not to visit him with flowers, diaries, or other tokens on New Year’s Day. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to respecting the somber national mood and addressing pressing local issues.

This decision comes as a reflection of the government’s priorities amidst the challenges faced by the state. Both Majhi and Parida are expected to dedicate the day to reviewing the state’s ongoing relief measures for affected farmers.

The gesture has been widely appreciated, with citizens lauding the leadership’s sensitivity to the national loss and the plight of Odisha’s farmers.