Odisha Sets Benchmark in RIDF Project Delivery, Plans Aggressive Expansion
Odisha has cemented its position as a national frontrunner in rural infrastructure development, emerging as the top-performing state in the implementation of Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) projects for the fiscal year 2024–25. The achievement was spotlighted during the first High Power Committee (HPC) meeting for FY 2025–26, held at Lok Seva Bhawan under the chairpersonship of Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg.
With a record ₹3,836 crore concessional loan from NABARD, Odisha not only led in terms of allocation but also in execution and timely delivery, reinforcing its role as a benchmark state in rural development.
RIDF: Driving Inclusive Growth Through Infrastructure
The RIDF, instituted by NABARD in 1995, is aimed at bridging the rural infrastructure gap through financing support to states for projects in irrigation, roads, bridges, health, and drinking water. The fund is critical to achieving inclusive growth by improving rural connectivity, water access, and agricultural productivity.
Odisha’s RIDF success story in 2024–25 includes key project milestones:
· Water Resources Department delivered a ₹34.9 crore in-stream storage structure at Jakameripalli (Ganjam), now supplying drinking water to 11 villages in Digapahandi block.
· Works Department completed a 511-meter-long HL bridge over Haripur Nalla in Angul district at ₹39.89 crore, enhancing all-weather connectivity.
· Rural Development Department finished a 6.8 km strategic road linking NH-326 to Peta Road in remote Malkangiri, benefiting tribal communities.
· Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water Department launched a ₹113.98 crore Mega Pipe Water Project in Rairakhol (Sambalpur), serving over 8,500 rural residents.
· Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Department scaled Micro River Lift Irrigation under Jalanidhi-II, empowering individual farmers with better irrigation access.
These projects collectively reflect Odisha’s emphasis on last-mile infrastructure delivery, enhancing the quality of life across backward and tribal regions.
NABARD, Centre Laud Odisha’s Efficiency
Officials from NABARD, after conducting field evaluations, praised the state’s efficiency in project planning and execution. This performance has bolstered Odisha’s case for an enhanced RIDF allocation in FY 2025–26.
Further, with ₹150.89 crore recently approved by the central government for 3,425 micro-irrigation projects under the Micro-Irrigation Fund (MIF), Odisha is set to deepen its agricultural resilience. The HPC has urged NABARD to fast-track loan disbursal to enable quick ground execution.
Additionally, nine new proposals under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) have been submitted, aimed at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in coastal and inland regions.
A Model of Rural Transformation
Odisha’s RIDF execution is more than just an administrative feat—it is a model of rural transformation through focused governance and strategic convergence. By delivering critical infrastructure in some of the most underserved areas, the state is accelerating equitable growth and empowering its rural population.
As the state gears up for FY 2025–26, the emphasis on quality, speed, and impact will be crucial. With increased allocations and robust institutional frameworks, Odisha is not just building infrastructure—it is building futures across rural India.
(With agency inputs)
