In a significant step towards enhancing state resilience and sustainable development, Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired a high-level meeting with the World Bank Mission team today to review the progress of the Odisha State Capability and Resilient Growth Programme (OSCRGP).
The meeting, attended by senior officials from the Finance Department, Chief Executive Officer of Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC), Special Secretary of Planning and Convergence Department, Director of Economics and Statistics, and representatives from the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), focused on evaluating annual advancements and expenditure under the programme.
Supported by the World Bank and the Government of India, OSCRGP — which commenced in 2023-24 and is funded until April 2028 — aims to bolster Odisha’s institutional capacity for sustained growth. Key objectives include strengthening social and economic security by delivering government scheme benefits to all eligible beneficiaries through integrated digital platforms, mitigating economic losses from natural disasters via advanced early warning systems, and modernising data collection, analysis, and dissemination for evidence-based policy-making.
During the discussions, Ms. Garg reviewed yearly progress, expenditure patterns, and ongoing activities. She advised accelerating implementation to improve fund utilisation rates and directed an early convening of the State Data Management Committee meeting.
The World Bank team emphasised further strengthening information dissemination in disaster management, particularly for multi-hazard events like lightning strikes and cold waves. They recommended enhancing OSDMA’s messaging systems for more effective and timely alerts to all sections of society.
This collaborative effort underscores Odisha’s commitment to building resilience against climate shocks, expanding adaptive social protection, and fostering data-driven governance for inclusive development.
