The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Friday approved four significant proposals — three related to the ambitious Integrated Anandpur Barrage Project and one concerning service conditions for radiographers in ESIC facilities.
The three Water Resources Department proposals cleared by the Cabinet involve the construction of underground pipeline distribution systems in three separate packages along the Salandi Left Main Canal. Together, these packages will provide assured irrigation to 15,867 hectares of farmland in Balasore district at an estimated cost of ₹359.77 crore.
The Integrated Anandpur Barrage Project on the Baitarani River is designed to ultimately irrigate 60,000 hectares in Keonjhar and Balasore districts. While the barrage itself, strengthening of the Salandi river system, and distribution network for 3,000 hectares have already been completed, the remaining 57,000 hectares are to be covered through underground pipelines in nine packages. Of these, three packages have now received Cabinet approval, giving fresh momentum to the project. Each package is targeted for completion within 24 months.
Package-wise details:
- Package 1 (49.810 km to 59.970 km of Salandi Left Main Canal): Construction of underground pipeline system to irrigate 4,924.04 hectares in Oupada and Bahanaga blocks. Tender approved for ₹105.62 crore (construction) + ₹5.31 crore (5-year operation & maintenance).
- Package 2 (59.970 km to 60.304 km): Pipeline system to benefit 5,177.98 hectares in Nilgiri, Bahanaga, Oupada and Remuna blocks. Tender cost: ₹107.96 crore (construction) + ₹5.51 crore (O&M).
- Package 3 (71.505 km to 73.003 km): Pipeline system for 5,765.34 hectares in Remuna and Balasore blocks. Tender approved for ₹146.17 crore (construction) + ₹7.69 crore (O&M).
After completion, these three packages will directly benefit thousands of farmers in Balasore district and significantly improve their socio-economic condition.
Radiographer Service Rules Approved
In a separate decision, the Cabinet accorded approval to the Odisha Employees State Insurance Radiographer Service (Appointment Method and Service Conditions) Rules, 2026. The new rules will streamline recruitment, promotion and service conditions of radiographers working in ESIC hospitals and dispensaries across the state.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Chief Secretary Anu Garg said the decisions will accelerate irrigation coverage in the state and strengthen healthcare service delivery through better regulation of technical manpower in ESIC institutions.
