Odisha Leads Nation in RIDF Project Execution, Eyes Faster Rollout for FY 2025–26

State receives ₹3,836 crore NABARD loan in FY 2024–25; High Power Committee calls for accelerated infrastructure delivery

In a testament to Odisha’s strong performance in rural development, the state has emerged as the top performer in implementing Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) projects in the country for the fiscal year 2024–25. The development was highlighted during the first High Power Committee (HPC) meeting for RIDF 2025–26, held at Lok Seva Bhawan on Thursday.

Chaired by Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary (DC-cum-ACS) Anu Garg, the session reviewed key milestones and urged line departments to maintain momentum in project execution. Garg commended the exemplary work done by various departments and emphasized the need to uphold quality standards while ensuring timely completion of projects.

Odisha secured a concessional loan of ₹3,836.34 crore from NABARD in FY 2024–25, the highest allocation among all states, underlining its leadership in rural infrastructure development.

Key Project Highlights:

• Water Resources Department completed a major in-stream storage structure at Jakameripalli in the Ramanadi basin (Ganjam), costing ₹34.90 crore. The facility provides drinking water to 16,500 residents across 11 villages in Digapahandi block.
• Works Department commissioned a 511-meter-long High-Level (HL) bridge over Haripur Nalla in Angul district at a cost of ₹39.89 crore, significantly improving connectivity.
• Rural Development (Roads) Department completed a 6.8 km road connecting NH-326 (Koikanda) to Peta Road in Malkangiri district, improving access in remote tribal regions with an investment of ₹5.96 crore.
• Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water Department launched a ₹113.98 crore Mega Pipe Water Supply Project in Sambalpur’s Rairakhol block, benefitting over 8,500 residents across nine gram panchayats.
• Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department advanced several Micro River Lift projects under Jalanidhi-II to enhance irrigation for individual farmers.

Officials from NABARD, who conducted recent field evaluations, commended Odisha’s efficiency and responsiveness in delivering rural infrastructure. The strong performance has positioned the state for additional support in the upcoming financial year.

The committee also discussed the recent central government approval of ₹150.89 crore for 3,425 micro-irrigation projects under the Micro-Irrigation Fund (MIF), urging NABARD to expedite loan disbursal to enable rapid execution.

Additionally, nine new proposals under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) were tabled for evaluation.

Given Odisha’s track record, the HPC recommended a higher quantum of RIDF-sanctioned projects for FY 2025–26 to accelerate sustainable rural development, improve livelihoods, and enhance quality of life in underserved regions.