Bhubaneswar: The first meeting of the High Empowered Committee of the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) for the financial year 2024-25 took place today at the Lok Seva Bhavan. The meeting, chaired by Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, focused on reviewing the progress, success, and implementation of various infrastructure development projects across the state under the RIDF during 2023-24.
The committee evaluated projects from departments including Water Resources, Rural Development, Public Works, Agriculture and Farmer Empowerment, Fisheries, and Livestock Development. Garg emphasized the need to accelerate ongoing projects and provided necessary instructions to ensure timely completion.
Key infrastructure projects presented during the meeting included embankment protection, group irrigation, irrigation development, and mega lift irrigation schemes overseen by the Water Resources Department. The Public Works Department showcased the construction of high-level bridges and road improvements, while the Rural Development Department highlighted road and bridge projects.
The Agriculture and Farmer Empowerment Department shared updates on projects related to irrigation and the Water Fund Scheme, while the Drinking Water Department focused on the progress of mega drinking water supply projects. The Fisheries and Livestock Development Department also presented their initiatives.
The committee recommended an increased budget allocation from NABARD based on the expenditure incurred in various projects so far. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Chief Administrative Secretary, department directors, and the Chief General Manager (CGM) of NABARD, Odisha, who actively participated in the discussions.