‘Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha’ name will be changed, official guidelines soon: Minister

The Odisha government will change the name of ‘Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha’ yojana to ‘Bikashita Gaan, Bikashita Odisha’ soon, informed Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik on Saturday.

Speaking to media persons in Bhubaneswar, Naik said, “The government will come up with the guidelines within two days to change the name of ‘Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha’ scheme of the previous BJD government.”

“Under this initiative ‘gram sabha’ will decide what can be developed in its panchayat and accordingly, the department will take action. This will empower the panchayat members,” Naik added.

Notably, the previous Naveen Patnaik-led government had launched the scheme to boost rural infrastructure and promote Jagannath culture. Under the programme, the target was set to execute 90,723 projects in 6,794 panchayats with each getting an assistance of Rs 50 lakh.

The scheme was in controversy as the suggestions of elected representatives were not considered for the projects in the panchayats, its funds allocation and its utilisation. The work orders were allegedly issued in the name of JEs, the list was being prepared by the BDOs and sent to district Collectors.