Odisha Cabinet Clears Recruitment of 19 Assistant Town Planners Through OPSC
Bhubaneswar: In a significant move aimed at strengthening urban planning and sustainable development across the state, the Odisha Cabinet has approved amendments to the Odisha Town Planning Service Group-A Recruitment Rules, 2018, paving the way for the recruitment of 19 Assistant Town Planners through the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC).
The revised recruitment framework introduces important changes to eligibility criteria and recruitment procedures.
Under the amended rules, the age limit for direct recruitment has been fixed between 21 and 42 years, to be calculated as of January 1 of the recruitment year.
The Cabinet has also expanded the educational qualifications for aspiring candidates.
Eligible applicants may possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Planning, a Postgraduate Degree in Planning, or Associate Membership of the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI) from recognised institutions.
Additionally, the amendments empower OPSC to address recruitment-related issues not explicitly covered under the rules, in consultation with the state government.
The move is expected to streamline the selection process and enhance administrative efficiency.
The recruitment drive is aimed at addressing the growing need for professional urban planners in the Directorate of Town Planning and related institutions across Odisha.
The newly appointed Assistant Town Planners will support Development Authorities, Regional Improvement Trusts, Special Planning Authorities, and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in preparing and implementing master plans, local area plans, and other statutory urban development projects.
Officials believe the decision will help strengthen urban governance and contribute to Odisha’s long-term development goals, including sustainable, resilient, and well-planned urban growth aligned with the state’s future vision.
