In a strategic dialogue aimed at bolstering Odisha’s urban landscape, the Housing & Urban Development (H&UD) Department convened a pivotal meeting with the 6th State Finance Commission today at the 3rd Floor Conference Hall of Kharavela Bhawan.
The session saw the department unveiling a detailed blueprint of its core initiatives and focal areas. These are tailored for integration into the upcoming Finance Commission framework.
Key discussions revolved around establishing clear benchmarks for incentive grants and fortifying urban governance structures. They also emphasized enforcing fiscal prudence. Emphasis was placed on elevating sanitation standards and bolstering human resources. Additionally, comprehensive capacity-building programs for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) were rolled out.
The agenda also highlighted the need for dedicated Project Management Units (PMUs) and streamlined accounting and financial oversight. Also, strategies to boost ULBs’ internal revenue streams were discussed, along with a sector-specific funding roadmap spanning 2026–27 to 2030–31.
Leading the Commission’s side was Chairman Dr. Arun Kumar Panda. He was flanked by esteemed members Prof. Asit Rajan Mohanty, Dr. Bibhu Prasad Nayak, and Member Secretary Dr. Satyapriya Ratha.
Representing the H&UD Department were Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee, who also serves as Director of Municipal Administration and an Ex-Officio Member of the SFC. Alongside were the Financial Adviser-cum-Additional Secretary, Additional Secretaries, and a cadre of senior officials.
This collaborative exchange underscored a unified commitment to synchronising departmental goals with the Commission’s mandate. By prioritising robust urban governance, fiscal accountability, and eco-friendly growth, the meeting paves the way for transformative advancements. These efforts align seamlessly with Odisha’s ambitious Viksit Odisha @2036 vision and the national Viksit Bharat @2047 blueprint.
The deliberations are expected to influence critical funding allocations. This will ensure sustained momentum in Odisha’s urban renaissance amid rapid urbanisation challenges.
