Odisha: A major push for rural infrastructure and inclusive growth in Odisha was announced during the launch of PMGSY-IV in Rayagada, where Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled a series of large-scale development initiatives aimed at strengthening roads, housing, irrigation, and livelihoods across the state.
827 New Roads Sanctioned Under PMGSY-IV
Under the first phase of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-IV (PMGSY-IV), Odisha has received approval for:
- 827 new rural roads
- 1,701.84 km of road network
- Rs. 1,698.04 crore project cost
The initiative aims to improve connectivity in remote, hilly, and underserved regions of Odisha, ensuring better access to education, healthcare, and markets.
Focus on Rural Connectivity and Inclusive Growth
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that rural roads are not just infrastructure but “lifelines” that support employment, education, and economic development.
He also highlighted that the government will ensure completion of pending road projects to connect the most remote habitations with the mainstream economy.
Major Housing and Welfare Support for Odisha
As part of housing and welfare initiatives, the Centre approved:
- Rs. 630.61 crore under PMAY-G for completing pending rural houses
- Commitment that no poor family in Odisha will live in a kutcha house
The announcement strengthens the government’s push for rural housing security and improved living standards.
Big Financial Push for Rural Employment and Irrigation
Additional approvals were also announced for key welfare schemes:
- Rs. 868.71 crore under MGNREGA (2026–27)
- Rs. 30.07 crore under WDC-PMKSY 2.0
These funds aim to boost rural employment, irrigation systems, and sustainable land and water development.
Women Empowerment and Farmers’ Welfare in Focus
Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted several initiatives focused on rural prosperity, including:
- Lakhpati Didi campaign
- Strengthening Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
- Skill development and self-employment training
- Scientific farming and integrated agriculture
- Livelihood activities like fisheries, goat rearing, and beekeeping
He stressed that women, farmers, and youth remain at the centre of government development policies.
Odisha’s Vision of “Samruddha Odisha, Viksit Odisha”
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the initiatives align with Odisha’s vision of “Samruddha Odisha, Viksit Odisha”, focusing on:
- Rural roads and bridges
- Drinking water and electricity
- Agricultural income growth
- Women empowerment and youth employment
He said PMGSY-IV will transform rural connectivity and accelerate development in districts like Rayagada.
Labour Day Ceremony Highlights Development Push
The Rayagada event, held on Labour Day, also included:
- Launch and inauguration of development projects
- Distribution of benefits to scheme beneficiaries
- Honouring of rural development beneficiaries
- Participation of women SHG members and local citizens
The programme reflected a strong focus on grassroots development and public welfare.
The PMGSY-IV launch in Rayagada marks a significant step in Odisha’s rural transformation journey. With major investments in roads, housing, employment, and agriculture, the initiative aims to strengthen connectivity and improve the quality of life across the state’s rural regions.
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