Odisha approves executive-class air travel for ministers on official duty

Bhubaneswar, Nov 13: The Odisha government has approved air travel in executive, business, or club class for both Cabinet and State ministers on official tours.

The Parliamentary Affairs department issued an official notification confirming this, with the Finance Department’s concurrence, stating, "The state government is pleased to allow Ministers, both Cabinet and State, to travel by air in Executive, Business, or Club class for official purposes."

In a recent development from September, the state government also extended air travel privileges within Odisha to Group-A officers (Level-12 and above). Previously, these officials were entitled to travel by rail or road for official duties within the state. The updated policy now enables these officers to fly on official tours, taking advantage of expanded intra-state air connectivity. This move aims to streamline travel for higher-level officials, enhancing efficiency in state operations and accommodating the growing network of air routes within Odisha.