Bhubaneswar: “The next decade belongs to Urban Development, and we must dedicate ourselves to this mission with dignity and responsibility,” said Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, while addressing Engineers, MIS professionals, Accountants, and Team Leads of ULBs and DUDAs undergoing orientation on the Mukhyamantri Sahari Bikas Yojana (MSBY).
Padhee underlined that urban transformation is not merely about infrastructure, but about building dignified, inclusive, and sustainable cities. Stressing the importance of today’s work in shaping tomorrow, she remarked, “Our present efforts will decide whether the next generation faces challenges or inherits a better world. It is not positions but knowledge that gives true dignity.”
Encouraging the participants, she said, “Each one of us is an integral part of the system. It is our prime duty to ensure that the system functions in the right direction. Together, let us be partners in creating better cities and stronger urban futures.”
The Principal Secretary highlighted that MSBY is a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of ULBs and DUDAs, enabling them to deliver quality services and citizen-centric governance. She urged participants to embrace innovation, adopt technology-driven practices, and nurture a sense of ownership while implementing urban programmes.
The orientation session, held in the Conference Hall of SUDA, witnessed active participation and lively interaction. Director Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, Director SUDA Rabindra Sahoo, and senior officers were also present.