Odisha Unveils Rs 200 Crore Rural‑Urban Transition Initiative for Planned Growth
The Odisha government has earmarked Rs 200 crore in the 2026–27 Budget to launch a Rural‑Urban Transition program aimed at managing the organic growth of peri‑urban areas and Gram Panchayats into structured urban clusters.
The initiative seeks to prevent haphazard expansion by introducing early civic amenities such as drainage, waste management, and street lighting, while ensuring climate‑resilient land use.
It also prepares local administrations for urban governance, reducing stress on existing cities.
Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra emphasised foresight over reaction, highlighting the need for well‑planned ecosystems.
Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee underscored the importance of data‑driven spatial planning and infrastructure benchmarking.
By leveraging inter‑departmental collaboration and technology to monitor settlement patterns, the program aims to set a new benchmark in sustainable and inclusive urbanisation across Odisha.
