Bhubaneswar: As Mohan Charan Majhi completes two years in office, his tenure has been marked by political gains and consolidation of leadership, even as the next phase poses key electoral tests.The BJP’s win in the Nuapada assembly bypoll in November 2025 and the successful election of BJP-backed independent Dilip Ray to the Rajya Sabha have strengthened Majhi’s position ahead of the panchayat and urban local body polls early next year.Over the past two years, Majhi has steadily consolidated authority within the govt and the party, aided by consistent backing from the central leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at his swearing-in and first anniversary, and his scheduled attendance at the second anniversary event, underline continued support from the BJP’s top brass. This backing has helped Majhi tighten governance control and improve organisational cohesion.Maintaining a clean personal image, Majhi has largely stayed clear of controversy while projecting himself as accessible and responsive. He has not shied away from tough questions and has consistently pitched “holistic development” as the core theme of his administration, stressing balanced growth across regions. “By prioritising all regions equally, we are paving the way for integrated development across sectors. What was once confined to paperwork and promises is now taking concrete shape. We are committed to extending the benefits of genuine development from the coast to the hinterlands,” the CM said.Policy observers say this push for geographically inclusive development marks a shift from the earlier Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-centric model. Gyana Ranjan Swain, political science professor at GM University, credited the govt with widening the development focus to industries, infrastructure and basic amenities across the state. He, however, flagged gaps in health and education, citing deficits in school and hospital infrastructure — a concern echoed by Mans Behera, a visiting professor at Rama Devi University. “Job creation, improved irrigation and checking distressed migration remain key challenges, even as the Subhadra cash incentive scheme for women has emerged as a major policy intervention,” he said.Data underscores these concerns. Odisha continues to face a high burden of child malnutrition, with 22.1% of Under-5 children classified as wasted, higher than the national average. In education, gaps persist: the UDISE 2025 report flagged deficiencies in digital learning, while a CAG report noted that over 30% of secondary students do not transition to higher secondary levels.“Political analysts say Majhi has grown in stature since taking office. While his political position has strengthened, tighter administrative control and improved delivery mechanisms will be crucial going forward,” said Jinendra Mohanty, retired professor of political science at Berhampur University.