Odisha Government Recognizes Excellence in Rural Development with 129 Awards

In a significant move to boost rural development, the Odisha government has announced 129 awards for outstanding Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The awards come with a total prize pool of Rs 4 crore and aim to recognize exceptional contributions across the state's three-tier PRI system, which includes gram panchayats, panchayat samitis, and zilla parishads.

Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik emphasized that the awards will highlight achievements in crucial areas such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), sanitation, the Jal Jeevan Mission, and good governance among others. Naik noted the awards will be disbursed at the state, district, and block levels to instigate further improvements.

The highest honors at the state level will see the top three zilla parishads receive Rs 25 lakh, Rs 20 lakh, and Rs 15 lakh, respectively. Similarly, top-performing panchayat samitis and gram panchayats will be awarded Rs 15 lakh, Rs 10 lakh, and Rs 5 lakh, respectively. Certificates will be given to the best block-level performers, fostering a spirit of excellence and competition among rural administrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)