Centre Sanctions Rs 112.2 Crore for Odisha Under Revamped Gram Swaraj Abhiyan
In a significant move to bolster local governance, the Central government has approved a substantial allocation of Rs 112.2 crore for Odisha under the Revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) spanning from 2022-23. This funding is specifically designed to enhance the leadership and administrative capabilities of elected representatives and other key stakeholders within the state's extensive panchayati raj system.
Strengthening Gram Panchayats Through Capacity Building
The primary objective of this financial infusion is to empower the 6,794 functioning gram panchayats in Odisha, enabling them to execute their responsibilities with greater efficiency and effectiveness. Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh formally disclosed these details through a written response presented in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting the government's commitment to grassroots development.
The RGSA framework focuses on comprehensive capacity building through structured training programmes that target:
- Elected members of panchayati raj institutions
- Administrative officials and staff
- Associated stakeholders involved in local governance
Multi-Format Training and Exposure Initiatives
The scheme implements a diverse range of educational formats to ensure thorough skill development. These include basic orientation sessions for newcomers, refresher courses for experienced personnel, and thematic workshops addressing critical development issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Specialised programmes are also conducted to assist in the preparation of detailed panchayat development plans, ensuring that local bodies can strategize effectively for community advancement. Furthermore, the RGSA facilitates exposure visits, allowing panchayat representatives and staff to observe model panchayats across various sectors, thereby learning from successful practices and innovative approaches implemented elsewhere.
Leadership Development Through Premier Institutions
As part of the leadership and management enhancement component, training is delivered through prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) under management development programmes. These initiatives are meticulously crafted to sharpen governance knowledge, improve decision-making processes, and foster leadership skills among Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) representatives and functionaries.
Specialised Modules for Financial Independence and Women Empowerment
To promote financial autonomy at the grassroots level, a dedicated own source revenue training module has been developed with expert support from IIM Ahmedabad. This module equips gram panchayats with the necessary tools and knowledge to generate and manage their own revenues, reducing dependency on higher-level funding.
Additionally, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has introduced a specialised training module exclusively for women elected representatives. This initiative aims to strengthen their leadership and managerial abilities, ensuring they can discharge their duties effectively and contribute meaningfully to local governance.
Funding Releases and Training Impact
The financial disbursements for Odisha under the RGSA have been structured over multiple fiscal years:
- Rs 11.4 crore allocated in 2022-23
- Enhanced to Rs 27.3 crore in subsequent allocations
- Rs 20 crore provided in 2024-25
- Rs 53.5 crore sanctioned for 2025-26
Between 2022-23 and 2025-26, up to January 31, approximately 7.5 lakh participants from Odisha have benefited from these comprehensive training programmes, demonstrating the scheme's extensive reach and impact on local governance structures.
