With the objective of connecting economically weaker and marginalised sections living in urban areas with various government welfare schemes, the Housing & Urban Development Department, in collaboration with Tata Steel Foundation, is implementing the ‘Sahayog’ programme across Odisha.
Through this initiative, thousands of urban families have been linked to a wide range of government services and benefits.
In this context, a one-day workshop for frontline workers associated with the Sahayog programme was organised today at the Odisha Urban Academy, Bhubaneswar. On the occasion, an FAQ booklet containing answers to commonly asked questions during the Sahayog survey process was also unveiled.
Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, Smt Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, said that the Sahayog programme is not merely about facilitating access to government schemes; it serves as an effective bridge for improving the quality of life of vulnerable urban communities. She appreciated the dedication and hard work of Swachha Sathis, SAG members, and Slum Dwellers’ Association members, whose sustained efforts have contributed significantly to the programme’s success.
Participants, including Swachha Sathis, SAG members, and representatives of Slum Dwellers’ Associations from various urban local bodies across the state, shared their experiences and highlighted the impact of the programme in their respective areas. They also offered valuable suggestions for making the initiative more effective and responsive to community needs.
Among others, Mr. Sourav Roy, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Steel Foundation; Mr. Shatrughna Kar, Additional Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department; and Mr. Sourindra Rautray, Nodal Officer of the Sahayog programme, spoke about the programme’s objectives, achievements, and future roadmap.
During the interaction, Ms. Padhee encouraged frontline workers to continue their grassroots engagement and directed departmental officials to give due importance to the experiences, feedback, and suggestions received from them, recognizing their critical role in strengthening the programme’s outreach and impact.
The workshop was attended by Mr. Shishir Ranjan Das from the Sahayog State Headquarters, along with representatives and staff members from various urban local bodies across Odisha.
