Bhubaneswar: Odisha has secured the third position nationally in rural connectivity under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), earning recognition from the Union Ministry of Rural Development for its strong performance in implementing the flagship rural road programme.
The recognition was conferred during the 25th anniversary celebrations of PMGSY held in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, on May 10. The event was attended by Union Minister for Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.
According to official data presented at the event, Odisha has connected 16,990 habitations under PMGSY, placing it among the top-performing states in the country. The state also ranked third in the category comprising North-Eastern States, Union Territories, and Hilly Areas, having provided road connectivity to 2,132 settlements in difficult terrains.
Over the past 25 years, PMGSY has emerged as one of the flagship central schemes aimed at improving rural road infrastructure and ensuring all-weather connectivity to unconnected habitations. More than 1.63 lakh habitations across India have been linked through the programme, significantly improving access to education, healthcare, markets, and livelihood opportunities in rural areas.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of Odisha’s innovative “Bandhara Model” at the Engineering and Technology Model Exhibition organised as part of the national programme. The bridge-cum-weir structure, which integrates rural connectivity with water conservation, drew appreciation for its sustainable and multi-purpose design.
The Bandhara system helps regulate river water flow during the monsoon season and supports groundwater recharge, thereby ensuring availability of drinking water and irrigation facilities during summer months.
Odisha Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, Rabi Narayan Naik, said the recognition reflects the state government’s sustained efforts to strengthen rural infrastructure. He added that Odisha would continue to focus on holistic rural development in the coming years through improved connectivity and water conservation initiatives.
