Senior officials and Secretaries to visit districts across Odisha; govt issues guidelines

In a significant move to enhance grassroots-level governance and monitor the implementation of various development schemes, the Odisha government has directed senior bureaucrats and Secretaries to conduct extensive visits to different districts over the next few months. A detailed set of guidelines in this regard has been issued by the Development Commissioner’s office.

According to the directive, all department secretaries will undertake field visits to various districts between June and August. 

These visits will include inspections at the panchayat and block levels. During their tours, officials are expected to stay for at least two to three days in the respective districts to gain a thorough understanding of on-ground realities.

The Secretaries will hold review meetings with the district Collectors and assist in formulating strategic plans tailored to local needs. A key focus of their visits will be to assess the effectiveness and progress of government welfare schemes, ensuring that they are reaching the intended beneficiaries.

As part of the plan, senior officials will be assigned to cover 29 aspirational blocks spread across 19 districts. They have also been instructed to engage with local institutions and communities more closely. This includes having midday meals at SC/ST hostels and schools to observe the quality and service delivery firsthand.

Moreover, the visiting officials will inspect Group Health Centres (GHCs), tribal residential girls’ schools, and hostels. The directive specifically emphasizes understanding the existing infrastructure, hygiene standards, and student welfare measures at these institutions.

This district outreach initiative aims to bridge policy and implementation gaps while fostering a culture of accountability and inclusive development at the grassroots level.