Nilanjan
The Odisha Cabinet, under the guidance of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has approved the ‘Ama Odisha, Naveen Odisha’ Yojana. This transformative scheme aims to enhance rural infrastructure, promote the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, and foster accelerated growth.
With a vision to create a modern and aspirational Odisha while preserving the essence of Jagannath culture, the scheme encompasses various objectives and initiatives. In this blog, we delve into the details of the scheme and its key features.
Objectives of the ‘Ama Odisha, Naveen Odisha’ Yojana
The primary objectives of the scheme are as follows:
- Infrastructure Development: The scheme aims to provide missing links and improve existing infrastructure, focusing on essential projects. It also encompasses construction, modernization, and expansion works to enhance primary education facilities and bridge critical gaps.
- Empowerment of Women and Youth: The scheme endeavors to empower women and youth by creating additional facilities for Mission Shakti Groups at the Gram Panchayat (GP) level. It seeks to bridge gaps in education, digital access, and sports facilities.
- Urban Facilities in Rural Areas: The scheme aims to bridge critical gaps in rural areas by providing urban facilities at the GP level. This includes enhancing banking facilities, improving digital access through mobile connectivity, optical fiber connectivity, WiFi, and internet connectivity.
Key Features of the ‘Ama Odisha, Naveen Odisha’ Yojana
The scheme incorporates several features to ensure effective implementation and transparent monitoring:
- Budget Provision: The scheme has a budget provision of Rs 4000 crore from the State Budget to support various initiatives.
- Coverage: The ‘Ama Odisha, Naveen Odisha’ Yojana will cover all Gram Panchayats in each Block of the State, with an entitlement of Rs 50 lakh per GP.
- Project Cost: The project cost under the scheme will range from Rs 2.50 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, enabling small and essential projects to be undertaken.
- Community Involvement: Projects under the scheme will be suggested or recommended by local communities, public representatives, and other stakeholders. The aim is to ensure active participation and alignment with local needs.
- Execution and Approval: Panchayat Samitis will execute the projects following due procedure, with the Collector authorized to select other agencies if required. The government will examine and approve the consolidated GP-wise project list submitted by the district’s Collector and President of the Zilla Parishad.
- Transparency Measures: The scheme will incorporate transparency measures such as a web-based Management Information System (MIS) for monitoring, as well as a dedicated app for sharing project photographs with GIS tagging. These measures will enhance accountability and facilitate effective tracking of project progress.
Conclusion
The ‘Ama Odisha, Naveen Odisha’ Yojana represents a significant step towards transforming rural infrastructure and preserving the cultural heritage of Odisha. By providing missing links, improving infrastructure, empowering women and youth, and bridging critical gaps, the scheme aims to uplift rural areas and create a more modern and aspirational state. With budgetary support, community involvement, and transparent monitoring mechanisms, the scheme paves the way for comprehensive development and growth in Odisha.
