In a significant development aimed at bolstering infrastructure in the contentious Kotia panchayat, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo laid the foundation stone for a Rs 16-crore power substation on Sunday. This initiative, located in Koraput district's Pottangi block, is designed to address the persistent electricity challenges faced by residents in this border area.
Addressing Long-Standing Power Issues
Singh Deo emphasized that the substation project is expected to be completed within a two-year timeframe. "Once this substation is commissioned, the people of Kotia will be free from power-related difficulties," he stated during the ceremony. Currently, at least seven villages within the panchayat lack access to conventional electricity and have been relying on solar lights provided by the Odisha government. In contrast, Andhra Pradesh has successfully electrified twelve of the disputed villages that are situated closer to its border.
Review of Livelihood Initiatives
During his one-day visit to the region, the deputy chief minister also took the opportunity to review various livelihood programs being implemented in the area. He inspected strawberry cultivation efforts undertaken by women self-help groups in Barabandh village, which are being supported by the district administration.
Engagement with Local Farmers
Later, Singh Deo visited Taupadar village, where he interacted with farmer Maliki Pangi and expressed appreciation for his fish farming and other agricultural activities. "I am happy to witness the hard work and innovation of farmers here. The produce from this region has the potential to be exported abroad, and I will make every possible effort to ensure that," the minister remarked. To further support agricultural endeavors, he distributed essential farming equipment to several local farmers.
Administrative Focus on Economic Strengthening
Koraput Collector Manoj Satyawan Mahajan highlighted that promoting livelihood activities in Kotia remains a top priority for the administration. The goal is to create regular income opportunities and bolster the local economy. Proposed initiatives include:
- Commercial farming
- Coffee cultivation
- Pisciculture (fish farming)
- Poultry and mushroom farming
- Ginger farming and goat rearing
- Broomstick binding
- Skill development programs
Background of the Border Dispute
The Kotia panchayat has been at the center of a protracted territorial dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Both states lay claim to 21 out of the 28 villages in the panchayat, with the boundary conflict pending resolution in the Supreme Court since 1968. This ongoing dispute has historically impacted infrastructure development and basic service provision in the region.
The foundation-laying ceremony for the power substation represents a concrete step toward improving living conditions in Kotia, even as the legal dispute continues. By addressing critical infrastructure gaps and supporting economic activities, the Odisha government aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in this contested border area.
