Odisha rural development Archives - Odisha Connect

Rural Odisha Set for Major Transformation as Finance Commission Recommends Property Tax and Performance-Based Grants

OdishaConnect — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:39:42 +0000

Rural Odisha is poised for a major transformation following recommendations by the Sixteenth Finance Commission (SFC), which has proposed the introduction of house and property taxes in gram panchayats.

Under the new framework, residents in rural areas may have to pay an annual property tax of around ₹1,200. The recommendation aims to strengthen local revenue generation and improve the financial capacity of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

The move seeks to bring rural local bodies closer to the revenue model followed by municipalities and municipal corporations, where property taxes serve as a key source of funding for development activities.

Panchayats Directed to Prepare Development Plans

The Panchayati Raj Department has instructed gram panchayats to prepare development plans in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Sixteenth Finance Commission.

The recommendations cover the financial period from 2026-27 to 2030-31 and outline the allocation of funds to gram panchayats, panchayat samitis, and zilla parishads.

Performance Grants to Reward Better Governance

A key feature of the new funding model is the introduction of performance-based grants from 2028-29 onwards.

Under the proposal, rural local bodies that demonstrate better revenue collection and governance performance will receive additional financial incentives. Panchayats will be eligible for an extra 10 percent grant over and above the funds allocated by the Centre.

The higher the revenue mobilization by a panchayat, the greater its performance score and the larger the grant it may receive.

Odisha to Receive ₹3,742 Crore in Performance Grants

Over the next five years, Odisha is expected to receive ₹3,742 crore from the Centre as performance-linked grants.

The funding is aimed at encouraging transparency, accountability, and efficient resource management at the grassroots level.

₹18,715 Crore Proposed for Three-Tier Panchayati Raj System

The Sixteenth Finance Commission has proposed a total grant of ₹18,715 crore for Odisha’s three-tier Panchayati Raj system between 2026-27 and 2030-31.

Of the total allocation:

80 percent will be provided as basic grants.
20 percent will be distributed as performance-based grants.

This financial support is expected to significantly strengthen rural governance and infrastructure development across the state.

Focus on Drinking Water, Sanitation and Waste Management

Half of the basic grant allocation will be provided as tied grants, earmarked specifically for:

Drinking water management
Sanitation services
Solid waste management
Liquid waste management

These investments are expected to improve public health standards and environmental sustainability in rural areas.

Untied Funds for Roads, Parks and Community Infrastructure

The remaining untied grants can be used by local bodies for a range of development activities, including:

Road construction and maintenance
Community centres and Kalyan Mandaps
Parks and recreational facilities
Gymnasiums
Other local infrastructure projects

The flexibility is intended to help local governments address region-specific development needs.

Additional ₹10,150 Crore Under State Finance Commission

Apart from Central grants, the Sixth State Finance Commission has proposed the transfer of ₹10,150 crore to Panchayati Raj Institutions between 2026 and 2031.

According to the proposed distribution formula:

Gram Panchayats will receive 60 percent of the funds.
Panchayat Samitis will receive 30 percent.
Zilla Parishads will receive 10 percent.

Officials believe the combined Central and State funding support will significantly enhance rural infrastructure, service delivery, and grassroots governance across Odisha.

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Odisha Livelihoods Mission, IIT Bhubaneswar Join Hands to Boost Rural Women Entrepreneurship

OdishaConnect — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:12:20 +0000

In a major initiative aimed at strengthening women-led enterprises in rural Odisha, the Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM) and IIT Bhubaneswar exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sunday to launch a dedicated incubation programme for rural entrepreneurs.

The agreement was exchanged at Mission Shakti Bhawan in Bhubaneswar in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Women & Child Development, Mission Shakti and Tourism, Pravati Parida.

Incubation Programme Under NRLM

The incubation programme will be implemented under the Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP), a component of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). IIT Bhubaneswar has been selected as the incubation partner for the initiative.

Through the collaboration, rural women entrepreneurs will receive comprehensive support in business planning, product development, quality improvement, branding, market linkages, access to finance and professional networking.

The programme aims to help growth-oriented enterprises expand their operations and become sustainable business ventures.

150 Rural Enterprises to Benefit

According to the guidelines of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), at least 150 growth-oriented rural enterprises will be supported through the incubation programme over the next three years.

The Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, has approved a budget of ₹10.70 crore for the initiative. In the first phase, ₹99 lakh has been sanctioned to IIT Bhubaneswar for implementation of the programme.

Officials said the initiative will create a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem in Odisha and encourage Self-Help Group (SHG) enterprises to evolve into small and medium-scale businesses.

Support for Certification, Registration and Patents

As part of the programme, selected SHG enterprises will receive assistance in obtaining Udyam registration, statutory compliances and other certifications required for business expansion.

IIT Bhubaneswar will also provide technical guidance for securing patents, process certifications and product standardisation, helping create unique identities for Odisha-based products in competitive markets.

The collaboration is expected to improve product quality, strengthen branding and enhance market access for women entrepreneurs across the state.

Government Focused on Creating Women Entrepreneurs

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the state government is committed not only to making women employable but also to nurturing them into successful entrepreneurs.

She said the partnership with IIT Bhubaneswar would provide SHG members with access to technical expertise, innovation and advanced training, enabling them to compete in national and international markets.

Describing the initiative as a significant step towards building a “Viksit Odisha,” she said it would play a crucial role in enhancing women’s confidence, financial independence and economic empowerment.

Mahalakshapati Didis Share Success Stories

During the programme, the Deputy Chief Minister interacted with Mahalakshapati Didis and listened to their inspiring journeys from hardship to entrepreneurial success.

Senior officials from the Mission Shakti Department, Odisha Livelihoods Mission and IIT Bhubaneswar attended the event. Women entrepreneurs, Lakhpati Didis and Mahalakshapati Didis from across the state also participated, while officials and SHG members joined virtually from different districts.

Officials said the initiative would open new avenues of growth for rural women entrepreneurs and contribute to the vision of a developed Odisha and a developed India through women-led economic transformation.

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Sisir Saras-2026 to Turn Bhubaneswar into a ‘Mini India Market’ from January 10

OdishaConnect — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 13:28:27 +0000

The much-awaited Sisir Saras-2026, organized by the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, Government of Odisha, will be held from January 10 to January 18, 2026, at the IDCO Exhibition Ground, Bhubaneswar. The annual fair aims to provide a strong direct marketing platform for rural producers, artisans, and women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

Platform for Rural Artisans and SHGs

Sisir Saras has emerged as one of Odisha’s most significant rural marketing initiatives. This year, artisans and producers from Odisha and nearly 20 states across the country will participate, showcasing a diverse range of handicrafts, handloom products, and rural enterprises. The fair is being organized in collaboration with Mission Shakti, reinforcing the state’s focus on women-led economic empowerment.

‘Mini India Market’ with 375 Stalls

The exhibition ground will be transformed into a vibrant “Mini India Market”, featuring 340 sales stalls and 35 food stalls. Visitors can expect a rich shopping experience reflecting India’s cultural and craft diversity, along with traditional cuisines from different regions.

Showcasing Odisha’s Handloom and Handicraft Heritage

Odisha’s rich craft legacy will be a major attraction at the fair. Highlights include:

Handloom textiles from Bargarh, Sambalpur, Balangir, and Subarnapur
Lac products from Balasore
Paper mache from Keonjhar
Woodcraft from Kandhamal and Kalahandi
Golden grass crafts from Kendrapada and Jagatsinghpur
Terracotta from Balangir
Lemongrass oil and black rice from Koraput
Millet-based products from Sundargarh

Crafts from Across India

Handicrafts and handloom products from other states will also be on display, including:

Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh
Kosa silk from Chhattisgarh
Tussar silk from Jharkhand
Chikankari from Uttar Pradesh
Woollen garments from Jammu & Kashmir
Phulkari from Punjab
Block prints from Madhya Pradesh
Artificial jewellery from Karnataka

Workshops to Strengthen Rural Enterprises

Six workshops and training programmes will be conducted during the fair, involving around 850 members of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and SHGs. These sessions will focus on value addition, enterprise development, branding, enhancing product shelf life, and improving market competitiveness of locally made products.

Cultural Nights, Fashion Shows and Special Tribute

Cultural programmes will be a major attraction of Sisir Saras-2026. Renowned artists will perform during the fair, along with a special musical night in memory of popular Odia singer Humane Sagar. Kite and drone shows, along with fashion shows, will further add to the festive spirit.

Eco-Friendly and Well-Managed Event

Special emphasis has been laid on maintaining a plastic-free and clean environment at the venue. Adequate arrangements for lighting, security, and drinking water have been made to ensure visitor comfort.

₹30 Crore Business Expected

The mega fair is expected to generate business worth approximately ₹30 crore, providing a significant boost to rural livelihoods and women-led enterprises.

Minister’s Message: ‘Vocal for Local’

Minister of Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water and Rural Development Shri Rabi Narayan Naik described Sisir Saras-2026 as a perfect platform to be “Vocal for Local” and a strong step towards Atmanirbhar Odisha. He extended his best wishes to the organizers and urged all participants to work together to make the event a grand success.

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Anu Garg Chairs First Secretary-Level Meeting as Odisha Chief Secretary

OdishaConnect — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:03:49 +0000

Following her assumption of charge as Odisha’s Chief Secretary, senior IAS officer Anu Garg chaired her first secretary-level meeting today at the state secretariat. The meeting brought together all department secretaries to deliberate on key administrative priorities and provide strategic directions for efficient governance.

Focus on Efficient, Accountable, and Citizen-Centric Administration

During the meeting, Chief Secretary Garg emphasized the need to make governance efficient, accountable, and citizen-focused, aligning with Odisha’s Vision 2036 and Vision 2047. She reviewed the two-year action plan’s implementation and set performance-based targets, including measures to reduce underdevelopment rates and fill vacant posts across departments.

Strengthening Governance and Administrative Systems

Garg instructed that strict action be taken against non-performing or inefficient officials to ensure a clean and effective administrative system. Departments were advised to integrate training programs under Mission Karmayogi and prepare annual training calendars for government employees to enhance capacity and service delivery.

Project Monitoring and Budget Oversight

Secretaries were directed to monitor the quality and timely execution of district- and state-level projects, ensuring that approved budgets are utilized efficiently. Emphasis was placed on tracking outcomes and accelerating the pace of projects critical for long-term development in sectors such as industry, ports, roads, bridges, drinking water, irrigation, energy, and urban-rural infrastructure.

Rural Development and Mission “PaowaR”

For rural development, Chief Secretary Garg highlighted the Mission PaowaR initiative, focusing on providing electricity, piped drinking water, and all-weather roads to every village. Departments were asked to coordinate effectively to ensure full implementation.

Focus on Women, Children, and Education

The meeting also discussed Anganwadi centers and their transformation into community happiness hubs with improved infrastructure. Efforts to ensure proper sanitation facilities by International Women’s Day were highlighted. In education, attention was given to quality learning, skill development programs, higher education efficiency, and promoting regional research and innovation.

Promotion of Tourism, Self-Reliance, and Local Ecosystems

Chief Secretary Garg stressed enhancing tourism infrastructure, creating facilities for all categories of visitors, and supporting local self-reliance initiatives. Departments were instructed to foster Swadeshi ecosystems while addressing livelihood needs in areas affected by Naxalite activities.

Coordinated Approach Across Departments

All secretaries were reminded to work as a team, integrating departmental initiatives with national priorities. Garg highlighted the importance of collective efforts to achieve Odisha’s Vision 2036 and contribute meaningfully to India’s Vision 2047.

Attendance and Presentations

The meeting saw participation from Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Department Secretaries, Commissioners, and other senior officials. Presentations and detailed reports were prepared in Odia to ensure clarity and inclusivity in discussions.

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No New Gram Panchayats or Blocks in Odisha, Says Minister Suresh Pujari

OdishaConnect — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:55:50 +0000

Government Rejects Thousands of Rural Settlement Applications

In a major announcement in the Odisha Assembly today, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari declared that there will be no creation of new gram panchayats or blocks in the state for the foreseeable future. The decision is a setback for thousands of rural settlements aspiring for independent administrative identity.

Statistics: Applications, Rejections, and Pending Proposals

While answering a starred question, Pujari revealed that the Revenue Department received 5,566 applications for the formation of new “pada gaons” (revenue villages). Out of these, 2,501 proposals were outright rejected, while 1,177 applications remain under consideration. The rest have already been processed and decided.

Tribal Districts Hit Hardest

The tribal-dominated districts faced the most significant impact from the rejections. Rayagada led with 256 rejected applications, followed by Malkangiri (235), Gajapati (233), and Ganjam (200). Many of these settlements had hoped for separate panchayats, better funding, and accelerated development.

Reasons Cited for Rejection

The Minister explained that the rejections were based on strict adherence to existing guidelines, including population, area, revenue generation capacity, and distance from parent villages. Despite this, some political analysts argue the move could be aimed at preventing new delimitation exercises ahead of the 2027 panchayat elections.

Implications for Rural Development

Millions of villagers in these “padas” will continue to remain under larger revenue villages, limiting their voice in gram sabhas and delaying the implementation of development schemes. Opposition parties protested in the Assembly, but the message was clear: Odisha’s rural administrative map will remain unchanged for now.

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Odisha Parba 2025 Concludes in Bengaluru, Showcasing Rich Culture and Heritage

OdishaConnect — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:35:10 +0000

The three-day Odisha Parba 2025, held from 15th to 17th November at The Lalit Ashok in Bengaluru, concluded today with grandeur. Thousands of participants, including members of the Odia community, tourists, artisans, and culture enthusiasts, attended the festival, celebrating Odisha’s vibrant heritage, arts, cuisine, handicrafts, and tourism.

A Celebration of Odisha’s Culture

The festival highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural traditions and artistic excellence. Visitors were treated to a display of the state’s handicrafts, handlooms, traditional foods, and immersive tourism experiences. Each segment of the exhibition received immense appreciation from attendees, reflecting Odisha’s thriving craftsmanship and cultural identity.

Organized collaboratively by the Tourism Department, Handicrafts & Handloom Division, Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department, Odisha Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation Ltd, Mission Shakti, and Odisha Rural Development & Marketing Society (ORMAS), the event successfully showcased Odisha’s heritage and traditions on a prominent national platform.

Performances and Live Demonstrations

The festival featured a range of cultural activities, beginning with traditional dance and music performances, live craft demonstrations, and curated culinary counters. From tribal art forms and classical traditions to contemporary creative expressions, the event offered a comprehensive cultural experience for families, tourists, students, and art lovers.

The celebrations fostered strong cultural ties between Odisha and Karnataka, creating an interactive and engaging platform for visitors to explore and connect with Odisha’s artistic and traditional legacy.

Platform for Artisans and Entrepreneurs

Odisha Parba also provided artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their work, gain market visibility, and interact with influential buyers, travelers, and cultural leaders in Bengaluru. Visitors lauded the festival for highlighting Odisha’s craftsmanship and tourism potential, emphasizing the growing interest in Odisha’s cultural and artisanal offerings.

Tourism and Investment Discussions

On the final day, a dedicated session was held where Shri Balwant Singh, Commissioner & Secretary of the Tourism Department, met with potential investors from resorts, farms, real estate, hotels, and destination management companies (DMCs). Discussions focused on emerging opportunities in Odisha’s tourism ecosystem, future collaboration, and investment prospects.

Following this, a tourism roadshow brought together Karnataka’s leading tour operators, travel professionals, travel associations, and hospitality stakeholders. The event showcased Odisha’s latest tourism initiatives, infrastructure, connectivity improvements, and potential investment opportunities. Senior officials and industry experts facilitated interactive sessions with local participants, strengthening cooperation and opening new avenues for tourism growth between Odisha and Karnataka.

A Strong Cultural and Tourism Connect

Odisha Parba 2025 reinforced Odisha’s position as a vibrant and rapidly growing tourist destination. It celebrated the state’s culture, creativity, and traditions while fostering meaningful collaborations between Odisha and southern India. The event concluded on a high note, leaving lasting memories and marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s ongoing efforts to expand its cultural and tourism footprint across the country.

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Odisha Government Boosts BDO Powers, Sparks BJD Outrage

OdishaConnect — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 12:40:23 +0000

The BJP-led Odisha cabinet has approved a major hike in the financial powers of Block Development Officers (BDOs). While the government calls it a step to ease development processes, the opposition BJD has condemned it as an attack on grassroots democracy and the Panchayati Raj system.

BJD Slams the Move as “Undemocratic”

At a press conference in Shankha Bhawan, BJD MLA Arun Sahu and party Vice-President Pratap Jena strongly criticized the decision. They labelled the move “undemocratic” and “unconstitutional,” arguing that it strips elected representatives of their rightful authority.

During the BJD’s 24-year rule, chairpersons of Panchayat Samitis were empowered to co-sign bills above ₹2 lakh, ensuring transparency and community oversight. The new policy, however, gives BDOs sole authority to sign bills up to ₹10 lakh without the chairperson’s approval.

Concentration of Power in Bureaucracy

Since most block-level projects are valued below ₹10 lakh, the BJD claims the change sidelines elected officials and hands unchecked authority to state-appointed officers.

Arun Sahu described the decision as “an attack on democratic values rooted in the 73rd Constitutional Amendment,” which introduced Panchayati Raj institutions.

Pratap Jena went further, accusing the BJP of fostering a “bureaucratic raj” where officers are pressured to collect commissions. He alleged that corruption is already rife in Odisha’s 314 blocks, where tender processes are often manipulated.

Political Context and Rising Tensions

The BJD views the decision as a targeted political strategy. Despite losing 61 assembly seats in 2024, the party still controls most Panchayat Samiti chairperson posts across Odisha. According to BJD leaders, this policy undermines their grassroots stronghold.

In response, the party is preparing for state-wide protests, mobilising block chairpersons, samiti members, and sarpanches to demand the withdrawal of the decision.

Rural Heartland at Stake

With nearly 83% of Odisha’s 46 million population residing in rural areas, the fight for control over Panchayati Raj institutions is critical. BJD fears that disempowering local leaders may fuel rebellion and destabilise the newly formed BJP government led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

BJP Defends Policy as Development-Oriented

On the other side, the BJP maintains that the decision aims to cut bureaucratic red tape and accelerate project execution. The party argues that simplifying procedures will benefit rural development.

However, with 6,794 panchayats managing a combined annual budget of nearly ₹5,000 crore, critics argue that concentrating financial powers with BDOs risks alienating elected representatives. This, they warn, could drive grassroots leaders closer to opposition parties like BJD and Congress.

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