Bhubaneswar, 01 April (H.S.): In a major step towards strengthening sustainable urbanisation, the Housing and Urban Development Department of Odisha convened a high-level session on urban land management at Kharavela Bhawan, emphasizing land as a critical strategic resource in the state’s journey towards a “Viksit Odisha.”

Chairing the session, Additional Chief Secretary of the department and IDCO Chairperson Usha Padhee highlighted that informed and strategic land management is essential for developing sustainable and future-ready cities. She stressed the importance of a deeper understanding of land classifications, regulatory frameworks, and innovative tools such as land value capture to unlock the full potential of urban land assets.

The session featured a detailed presentation by retired IAS officer Hari Ballav Mishra, who shared insights from his extensive administrative experience. He elaborated on the evolving legal, administrative, and policy dimensions of urban land management, with a focus on clarity in legacy land classifications and the need for adaptive policy frameworks.

Key discussions covered major land categories in Odisha, including Nazul, Khasmahal, Government Khas Possession (GKPB), and leasehold lands, highlighting their optimal utilisation amid rapid urban growth. Participants also explored land value capture as a sustainable financing mechanism to support urban infrastructure development and improve service delivery.

The session was attended by Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, along with Additional Secretaries, Collectors, Municipal Commissioners, and officials from the Revenue and General Administration departments, both in person and virtually.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda