Bhubaneswar, 09 April (H.S.): The Rural Development Department of Odisha held a key review meeting under the leadership of Minister Ravi Narayan Nayak to evaluate the department’s performance in 2025-26, during which 89.5% of allocated funds were successfully utilized. Minister Nayak emphasized building on last year’s achievements to set higher targets for the current year. The state ranked eighth nationally in the implementation of the Prime Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojana and first in adopting advanced knowledge and technology in road construction.

The meeting aimed to evaluate the department’s achievements in 2025-26 and chart a roadmap for the year 2026-27.

The session began with a presentation by Commissioner and Secretary Matinee Yamini Shadangy on departmental accomplishments. During the financial year 2025-26, the department achieved a total financial expenditure of 89.45 percent. In the implementation of the Prime Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Odisha ranked eighth nationally in performance, while the state secured first place for using advanced knowledge skills and materials in road construction. Minister Nayak congratulated all officials and staff for their achievements.

Addressing the officials, Minister Nayak urged them to build on the previous year’s success and work with greater commitment and effort to achieve higher targets in the current year. He directed that tender processes be completed before the onset of the monsoon to ensure projects commence promptly.

The meeting also discussed connecting underdeveloped villages with all-weather roads under the “Mission Power” initiative. A detailed review of unconnected habitations in each district was conducted, and timelines were set for achieving these targets. The minister instructed officials to ensure that development benefits reach all regions equitably.

Progress of the Chief Minister’s Road Plan and other ongoing projects was also reviewed. Minister Nayak emphasized that alongside new road construction, maintenance and strengthening of existing roads are equally important, as strong infrastructure reinforces public confidence in the government.

The meeting was attended by Special Secretary Sarveshwar Singh, Chief Engineer Pradeep Kumar Jena, and other senior officials. Heads of all circles and divisions in the state provided updates on ongoing works in their respective areas. The meeting served as a platform for knowledge exchange and discussion of advanced departmental processes and work practices.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda