Odisha Pushes Decentralized Governance with District Planning Committees

The Odisha government has announced the formation of District Planning Committees (DPCs) across all 30 districts, marking a significant step toward decentralising governance and strengthening local development.

Ministers and MLAs have been appointed as chairpersons to lead these committees, ensuring district‑level leadership in planning and execution of welfare schemes.

The move is expected to enhance grassroots participation, streamline welfare delivery, and empower local governance structures.

Each district now has a designated leader, including Ashok Mohanty (Angul), Laxman Bag (Balangir), Padmalochan Panda (Balasore), Prithviraj Harichandan (Gajapati), Nityananda Gond (Rayagada), and Krushna Chandra Patra (Sambalpur), among others.

By strengthening district‑level planning, the government aims to improve development strategies, align welfare initiatives with local needs, and ensure more effective implementation across Odisha.