Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is set to roll out a new initiative, ‘Mahapurush Adarsh Gram Yojana’, aimed at developing villages that are the birthplaces of eminent personalities, particularly those who played a significant role in the freedom struggle.
Announcing the initiative on Monday, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik said district collectors have been directed to identify and prepare a list of eligible villages across the state.
“Mahapurush Adarsh Gram represents our Asmita (pride and identity). Many great personalities were born in small, underdeveloped villages. While their contributions are remembered, their birthplaces remain neglected. This scheme aims to develop such villages through improved infrastructure, employment opportunities, education, and healthcare facilities,” said Naik during a media briefing.
The minister said around 100 to 150 villages will be selected under the scheme. The Panchayati Raj Department will implement the initiative in convergence with other departments to ensure comprehensive development—covering roads, water supply, schools, healthcare centres, and livelihood opportunities.
At the state level, the Chief Secretary will serve as the Chairman of the initiative. At the district level, the District Collector will lead the implementation, while at the block level, the Block Development Officer (BDO) will serve as the Chairman.
Naik also criticized previous governments for ignoring the legacy of Odisha’s eminent personalities.
“For a long time, we have been searching for our history and rediscovering our icons. Unfortunately, past administrations failed to recognize the importance of preserving the legacy of our great personalities. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, we are taking serious steps to honour them and make their stories known to the people of Odisha,” he said.
