External forces behind Gen-Z protest, Odisha CM Mohan Majhi

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi hoisted the national flag at Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar and addressed the people of the State on August 15, 2026. Credit: X/@MohanMOdisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday (August 15, 2026) reiterated his earlier stand, saying external forces were behind the Gen-Z protest, which was critical of the Narendra Modi Government over its education policy.“Over the past few days, certain external forces, both within and outside the country, have been attempting to mislead the youth of the nation. The reason is that they do not want to see India emerge as a strong nation,” said Mr. Majhi, addressing the state-level celebration of the 80th Independence Day at Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar.“They are well aware that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not bow before them and will not compromise even an inch when it comes to the interests of the country. Therefore, they [external forces] are targeting the youth. Their attempts have already been thoroughly exposed across the country,” he said.Odisha CM exhorted, “Our youth know that whatever problems they may face can be resolved only by PM Modi, and he is also taking the necessary steps in this direction. Therefore, do not allow yourselves to be influenced by anyone. Focus on your respective careers that must be your first priority.”A week ago, the Odisha CM had uttered a similar sentiment, saying some external forces and invisible enemies were misleading youths through social media.On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Mr. Majhi announced that the existing limit of a maximum of six attempts for the Odisha Civil Services Examination would be removed. “Candidates will now be allowed to appear for the examination until they reach the prescribed upper age limit. Similarly, certain restrictions that existed regarding compassionate appointments following the death of government employees have also been relaxed,” he pointed out.Over the past few days, there have been reports of some problems faced by our farmer friends while registering for paddy procurement. The government has discussed the issue in detail.Odisha CM also assured farmers that Agri-Stack registration would have no connection with P-PAS registration for paddy procurement. “Farmers need not worry that any issue with their Agri-Stack registration will create problems in selling their paddy. As in previous years, P-PAS registration will be carried out this year as well, and paddy procurement operations will be conducted on the basis of that registration,” he declared. Published - August 15, 2026 12:57 pm IST