Kotia Integral to Odisha, Says Minister Suresh Pujari During Development Review
Koraput: Reiterating the Odisha government’s firm stand on the Kotia region, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Tuesday declared that Kotia was, is and will remain an integral part of Odisha while reviewing the progress of various development initiatives in the area.
Chairing a review meeting, the minister underscored the state’s commitment to accelerating infrastructure development, improving public welfare and strengthening governance in the disputed border region of Koraput district.
During the review, officials highlighted significant achievements across multiple sectors. Under housing initiatives, 921 houses have been sanctioned, of which 641 have already been completed.
Welfare measures have also been expanded, with over 2,000 ration cards distributed and benefits under pension and MGNREGA schemes reaching eligible residents.
Infrastructure development has received a major boost, with 41 kilometres of roads completed at an investment of ₹41 crore, improving connectivity in remote villages.
In the healthcare sector, authorities reported zero maternal and infant mortality, while thousands of residents availed treatment through OPD services and mega health camps conducted in the region.
Education facilities have also expanded, with 19 schools and two Odisha Adarsha Vidyalayas catering to nearly 2,000 students.
To improve access to clean energy, the government has launched a solar power project worth ₹7.19 crore and plans to extend the benefits of the PM Surya Ghar scheme to every household.
The review further highlighted the success of women empowerment programmes. More than 100 Self-Help Groups operating across 21 villages have contributed to the emergence of hundreds of “Lakhpati Didis”.
Beneficiaries have also received support through the Subhadra Yojana.
Officials informed the minister that thousands of forest rights land titles have been settled under the Forest Rights Act, while farmers are receiving assistance through CM-KISAN and PM-KISAN schemes.
Tourism development also featured prominently during the meeting, with ₹53 crore earmarked for the development of the Deomali eco-tourism circuit.
To ensure greater public participation in governance, the minister announced the formation of a local Sahabhagita Committee that will enable residents to actively monitor development projects and raise local concerns.
The review meeting reinforced Odisha’s continued focus on strengthening development activities while reiterating its position on the Kotia region.
