Bhubaneswar, Nov 21: The Odisha Cabinet on Friday approved 12 major proposals across nine departments, including the creation of Odisha Uniformed Services Staff Selection Commission (OUSSSC) and reforms in student assistance and mining allocation.

The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan, cleared the formation of a dedicated commission to oversee recruitment in uniformed services. The new body will handle appointments for departments such as police, forest, and excise and will consist of one chairperson and two members.

The Cabinet also approved an increase in assistance under the Mukhyamantri Medhabi Chhatra Protsahan Yojana. Student scholarships have been revised from Rs 11,000 to Rs 16,000, while female students will now receive Rs 17,000. The state will spend Rs 2,589 crore over the next five years to fund the enhanced support.

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In another significant decision, the government has decided to introduce an e-lottery system for mining lease distribution, replacing the current auction process. The state will determine pricing for mining operations, and license holders will be allowed to store minerals in designated stockyards during the off-season. Mining blocks may be allotted at the district level, with five blocks for the state and three for each district.

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja briefed reporters after the Cabinet meeting, confirming that one of the approved proposals also related to conducting the upcoming fifth session of the 17th Odisha Legislative Assembly.