How is Odisha CM Recognizing the Success of the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme?
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Synopsis
Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi praises the Union government's Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme, highlighting its role in grassroots development. The newly launched Aspirational Haat Campaign aims to promote local products digitally, ensuring fair pricing and broader market access for rural artisans and producers.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's CM praises the Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme for grassroots development.
- The Aspirational Haat Campaign promotes local products through digital platforms.
- Improved public services are a priority in remote areas of Odisha.
- The programme emphasizes 'Vocal for Local' to support local producers.
- Performance-based incentives encourage competition among districts.
Bhubaneswar, July 29 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed his admiration on Tuesday for the Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme, initiated by the Union government, calling it a remarkable framework for grassroots development within the state, as reported by government officials.
During the launch of the week-long Aspirational Haat Campaign at the State Convention Centre, part of the Sampurnata Abhiyan Samman Samaroh, CM Majhi emphasized that this initiative meets the objectives and aspirations of the aspirational districts in Odisha.
The campaign strives to elevate local products from these districts and blocks under the brand 'Aakanksha', facilitating their access on digital e-marketplaces.
He pointed out that the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme significantly enhances the delivery of public services and fosters inclusive growth in the state's remote regions.
Stressing the significance of these areas, he remarked that ensuring quality connectivity and transportation remains a top priority.
"The dreams of individuals residing in aspirational regions will now be realized," stated CM Majhi, highlighting that the synergy between state and central schemes, collaboration among various stakeholders, and healthy competition among districts have propelled the enhancement of development efforts.
The Chief Minister also underlined the value of 'Vocal for Local', noting that the 'Aakanksha' brand was introduced in 2024 to provide local producers with market access and recognition.
The newly initiated Aspirational Haat Campaign will further this goal by linking products from remote areas—crafted by self-help groups, artisans, farmers, and weavers—to consumers via digital platforms, ensuring fair pricing and broader reach.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister honored the top-performing aspirational districts and blocks within the state.
Awards were distributed based on performance metrics in health and nutrition, education, agriculture, water resources, financial inclusion, and skill development.
Congratulating the successful teams, CM Majhi remarked, "It is a source of pride that all our aspirational districts have consistently ranked among the best in various sectors. Ten districts collectively received performance-based incentives amounting to Rs 165 crore."
He pointed out that both the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), launched nationally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2018, and the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP), introduced in January 2023, have achieved notable success in Odisha.
Currently, the state comprises 10 aspirational districts under the ADP and 29 blocks across 16 districts under the ABP.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the significant strides made by Odisha through the Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme. This initiative not only fosters grassroots development but also unites various stakeholders in a concerted effort to uplift rural communities. The focus on local products and services ensures that the aspirations of underserved regions are recognized and fulfilled, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme?
The Aspirational Districts and Blocks programme, initiated by the Union government, aims to promote holistic development in underperforming districts and blocks across India, focusing on improving public services and fostering inclusive growth.
How does the Aspirational Haat Campaign support local producers?
The Aspirational Haat Campaign connects local producers from aspirational districts and blocks to digital marketplaces, enhancing their visibility and ensuring fair pricing for their products.
What are the key benefits of the Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme?
The key benefits include improved public service delivery, economic growth in remote areas, enhanced connectivity, and increased recognition for local artisans and products.
When was the Aspirational Districts Programme launched?
The Aspirational Districts Programme was launched nationally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2018.
What incentives do top-performing districts receive?
Top-performing aspirational districts receive performance-based incentives, which can total significant amounts, such as the Rs 165 crore awarded to ten districts in Odisha.
