Odisha has emerged as the top state in the 2024 Urban Governance Index (UGI), according to a recent independent assessment by Praja Foundation. This high rating demonstrates Odisha’s dedication to urban reforms as well as its accomplishments in promoting public engagement, decentralization that works, and the empowerment of local governing systems. Among the thirty-one cities evaluated, Odisha ranked first, surpassing other states because of its progressive policies that provide elected officials and urban local bodies (ULBs) more authority.
Through extensive fiscal decentralization, solid foundations for citizen engagement, and open administrative procedures, the state has shown its good governance. The Urban Governance Index, which covers 42 specific variables, assesses governments according to four fundamental pillars: public participation, municipal management, budgetary autonomy, and elected representative empowerment. The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, congratulated “Team Urban” and expressed his delight over the achievement.
Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development Usha Padhee is closely observing the UGI, which Odisha is preparing for success.
Key Reforms Driving Success:
- Autonomous Urban Local Bodies: Enhanced administrative and financial powers for ULBs, facilitating better decision-making at the grassroots level.
- Fiscal Decentralisation: Significant improvements in ULB budgets and resource allocation, allowing for more tailored urban development projects.
- Citizen Participation: Introduction of citizen engagement platforms, ensuring community involvement in urban planning and governance. Capacity Building and Infrastructure: Targeted initiatives to improve the capacity of municipal staff and infrastructure modernization programmes across cities.
- Odisha’s holistic approach to governance reform, combining accountability and inclusivity, makes it a model state for urban governance in India.
- This recognition places Odisha at the forefront of India’s urban development journey and highlights its path-breaking reforms that prioritize local autonomy and community engagement.
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