In a significant step toward inclusive development, 11 new blocks in Odisha have been included in the NITI Aayog’s Aspirational Blocks Programme, bringing the state’s total to 40 aspirational blocks.
This expansion includes five blocks from Keonjhar district and six from Mayurbhanj district, following a request from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to accelerate development in these regions.
The newly included blocks are Champua, Jhumpura, Keonjhar Sadar, Patna, and Telkoi in Keonjhar district, and Bahalda, Bijatala, Jamda, Kusumi, Rairangpur, and Tiring in Mayurbhanj district. NITI Aayog officially announced their inclusion today, marking a milestone in Odisha’s journey toward equitable growth.
The Aspirational Blocks Programme integrates central and state schemes to fast-track development in critical areas such as education, health, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. By fostering a competitive environment through ranking based on socio-economic indicators, the programme aims to accelerate progress in underdeveloped regions. This inclusion is expected to drive transformative change, empowering local communities and improving their quality of life.
Chief Minister Majhi’s proactive request to NITI Aayog underscores the state’s commitment to addressing regional disparities and promoting sustainable development. With 40 blocks now under the programme, Odisha is poised for a development surge, aligning with the national vision of inclusive growth.
