Dikhyaa Mohanty 
Principal Secretary, H&UD, Usha Padhee, hosted a high-level discussion on the Atal Network for Knowledge, Urbanization & Reforms (ANKUR), a revolutionary program aiming at boosting urban innovation, cooperation, and good governance, marking a significant step toward sustainable and future-ready cities. Senior authorities, urban specialists, and partner organizations convened the meeting to plan the urban development of Odisha in accordance with the overarching goals of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Viksit Odisha 2036. The main tenets of sustainable urbanization—improving infrastructure resilience, fostering inclusive governance, reducing poverty, and speeding up urban growth—were the topics of discussion.
Padhee emphasized the value of knowledge-sharing and policy innovation, highlighting ANKUR’s function in establishing alliances, linking expertise, and putting forward-thinking urban solutions into practice. In order to make cities more effective, just, and climate resilient, the project aims to improve data-driven decision-making, smart governance, and community involvement.
ANKUR is well-positioned to be a driving force behind revolutionary urban changes because to its well-defined plan for implementing best practices, bolstering institutions, and utilizing technology. The project will accelerate Odisha’s urban development by promoting digital interventions, sustainable infrastructure, and capacity-building. Odisha is setting the standard for cities that are catalysts for development, inclusion, and sustainability by reaffirming its dedication to innovation-led urban growth.
