Has the Centre Released Rs 444 Crore to Fortify Rural Local Bodies in Odisha?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Union government is strategically investing Rs 444.38 crore to empower rural local bodies in Odisha. This financial injection aims to enhance local governance and improve public services, making a significant impact in the region. Stay informed about the initiatives that are set to transform rural infrastructure!
Key Takeaways
- The Union government has released Rs 444.38 crore for rural local bodies in Odisha.
- This funding is part of the 15th Finance Commission grants.
- The allocation includes Untied Grants for various Panchayats.
- Initiatives like SabhaSaar and SVAMITVA enhance local governance.
- Grants can be used for essential services excluding salaries.
New Delhi, Nov 3 (NationPress) The Union government has allocated Rs 444.38 crore to bolster rural local bodies in Odisha as part of the 15th Finance Commission grants for the financial year 2025–26, as stated by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj on Monday.
This allocation comprises the second installment of Untied Grants totaling Rs 342.5964 crore for 20 eligible District Panchayats (Zilla Parishads), 296 eligible Block Panchayats (Panchayat Samitis), and 6,734 eligible Gram Panchayats in the state, according to the statement.
Furthermore, Rs 101.7815 crore, which represents the withheld portion of the first installment of Untied Grants for FY 2025–26, has been disbursed to 20 eligible Zilla Parishads, 233 eligible Panchayat Samitis, and 649 eligible Gram Panchayats.
The Central government, through the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation), endorses the release of Fifteenth Finance Commission Grants to States for Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Local Bodies. The Ministry of Finance then disburses these grants in two installments each financial year.
Untied Grants can be utilized by panchayati raj institutions and rural local bodies to address specific local needs under the 29 subjects detailed in the Eleventh Schedule, excluding salaries and establishment costs. Tied grants may be allocated for essential services like sanitation and maintaining ODF (open defecation-free) status, including management and treatment of household waste, human excreta, and faecal sludge management.
These grants may also fund the provision of drinking water, rainwater harvesting, and water recycling.
In addition, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has initiated programs such as SabhaSaar, an AI-driven tool for documenting and summarizing Gram Sabha meetings, SVAMITVA for digital land mapping and property rights, and eGramSwaraj for integrated online planning, accounting, and monitoring. Moreover, Gram Manchitra has been introduced for geo-spatial planning. These platforms not only enhance transparency and efficiency but also empower citizens to engage more actively in local governance.
Point of View
This funding release underlines the government's commitment to enhancing rural infrastructure and governance. By investing in local bodies, the Union government is fostering a more participatory approach to development, ensuring that the unique needs of rural populations are addressed effectively. This strategic move is crucial for balancing regional disparities and promoting sustainable growth across the nation.
NationPress
24/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Rs 444 crore funding?
The funding aims to strengthen rural local bodies in Odisha as part of the 15th Finance Commission grants.
How will the Untied Grants be used?
Untied Grants can be utilized for location-specific needs under the 29 subjects listed in the Eleventh Schedule, excluding salaries and establishment costs.
What initiatives has the Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched?
The Ministry has launched initiatives like SabhaSaar, SVAMITVA, and eGramSwaraj to improve governance and empower citizens.
Who oversees the release of these grants?
The Central government, through the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, oversees the release of these grants.
What are Tied Grants used for?
Tied Grants are used for basic services such as sanitation, waste management, and water supply.
