Odisha BDO climbs 3Km hilly terrain to resolve villagers’ issues; hogs headlines again

Nandahandi block development officer (BDO) Khirod Chandra Sahu, presently working in Odisha’s Nabarangpur district, has once again come into the spotlight for his people-centric approach, sources said on Sunday.

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Earlier recognised for rushing a diarrhoea-affected child to the nearest government-run hospital in his arms, the officer is now being hailed for trekking nearly three kilometres across steep hills and forested paths to understand the grievances of residents in Futaghar village under Jhadabandhaguda panchayat in the district.

Futaghar, a remote settlement with over 50 residents, can be reached only after crossing three hills, as vehicles cannot access the rugged terrain. Determined not to let any villager miss out on government welfare schemes, the BDO, along with officials, undertook the difficult journey.

On reaching the village, he reviewed various issues and assured that the single pending old-age pension case would be cleared at the earliest. He also informed residents that funds had already been sanctioned for the remaining stretch of the village road, parts of which are currently under construction.

The officer’s commitment and willingness to personally overcome physical barriers to serve citizens have drawn widespread appreciation from locals.

“Previously, I had visited Futaghar village of Jhadabandhaguda panchayat in 2023, which is a cut-off area and three kilometres away from here. At that time, I had noticed that some residents were not getting their pension, ration (PDS) rice, and other governmental benefits. Electricity supply was also not available there,” the Nandahandi BDO said.

“I had committed to the residents that whenever I visit the village next time, I will come after ensuring all requisite provisions. I went to the village along with BSSO (block social security officer), MI, and other officials. We observed that, except for one resident, all others are receiving their pension, and eight solar lights have been provided to them, of which seven are now functional. The one that has become defunct will be repaired soon,” BDO Sahu asserted.