Social Development

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CHAPTER 9

Abstract

Odisha places strong emphasis on social development alongside economic progress. These efforts are underpinned by the commitment to Leave No One Behind (LNOB), drawn from the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The impact of these efforts is reflected across various dimensions such as enhanced standard of living to improvements in healthcare outcomes and empowerment of marginalised population.

Over the past decade, households across the State have experienced an increase in ownership of durable assets, particularly in two-wheelers, cars, mobile phones, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc., ensuring families enjoy a better quality of life. The State has been able to improve access to basic services. A growing number of households today have functional tap water connections, proper sanitation, and clean cooking fuel, things that quietly but significantly reshape daily life.

Beyond these material gains, Odisha has ensured access to quality healthcare services, led by key initiatives including the integrated Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana (GJAY). The outcomes are particularly encouraging in the area of child health indicators, reflected in a decline in Neonatal Mortality Rate, or Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR).

Further, State has undertaken a multi-pronged approach to empowerment of marginalised population resting on three pillars: facilitating economic participation, imparting education and skilling, and building a supportive ecosystem. These measures have facilitated economic participation and educational achievement among individuals across gender categories, as well as for ST and SC communities. Between 2019 and 2024, women began allocating a greater share of their time to employment and learning, gradually moving away from unpaid domestic responsibilities. Between 2022 and 2024, Odisha has seen an increase in female labour force participation rate (LFPR) from 37.6 per cent to 48.7 per cent, accounting for a 11 percentage point increase. These efforts are part of a broader vision, which seeks to ensure that the State sustains its economic growth, and that all its residents benefit from the same in an inclusive and equitable manner.

9.1 INTRODUCTION

9.1.1 Social development is significantly influenced by various economic and social factors, including economic growth, quality of education, health, social capital, and social networks. Government policies play a crucial role in determining the evolution of these factors. Odisha has implemented various policies and initiatives to promote social development over the years.

9.1.2 Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the principle of Leaving No One Behind (LNOB), Odisha has integrated Agenda 2030 into its planning and governance framework. The State launched the Odisha SDG Indicator Framework (OSIF) aligning national priorities with the State needs. The implementation is anchored by the Planning and Convergence Department with support from the SDG Cell across departments and districts. These measures have contributed to improvements in SDG performance, with gains in poverty reduction (SDG 1), employment outcomes (SDG 8), and sustainable production and consumption (SDG 12). Odisha has made strides in improving economic well-being and living standards of its people. Household Consumption Expenditure Survey reveals that households have moved beyond subsistence level of consumption, with rising durable goods ownership across both rural and urban areas.

9.1.3 Odisha has also focused on strengthening the healthcare system. Flagship programs, such as the integrated Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana (GJAY), provides quality treatment free of cost to more than 90 per cent of households in Odisha. The State has also expanded healthcare infrastructure through the establishment of new medical colleges and the upgradation of hospitals under the Ama Hospital Scheme. Further, quality assurance is ensured through initiatives such as the NIRMAL Scheme and focus on National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification. Maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health are prioritised through programs including MAMATA-PMMVY (Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojna), Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), Anaemia Mukta Lakhya Abhiyan (AMLAN), SUPPOSHIT Mission, among others.

9.1.4 The State is committed to empowering women and has made progress in enhancing women’s workforce participation and overall quality of life. According to the latest Time Use survey (TUS)¹2024, women are reallocating time from unpaid domestic work to paid employment, leisure, and social participation. Initiatives like SUBHADRA, Lakhpati Didi, and skilling programs such as Sudakshya have supported women’s engagement in learning, entrepreneurship, and employment. These efforts are reinforced via a supportive ecosystem including safe workplace and community crèches and Sakhi Niwas (women’s hostel) that enable women to balance professional and personal responsibilities. The State has also implemented reforms, including the amendment to the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, allowing women to work night shifts under adequate safety measures.

¹ The Time Use Survey (TUS) is conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

9.1.5 Odisha has made efforts to uplift vulnerable communities, particularly Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC) populations, through educational, employment and livelihood initiatives. The State has implemented schemes like the Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana, which provides financial support to ST students to reduce dropouts, and PRAYAS, which offers skill and employability training to SC youth. Additionally, the Mukhyamantri Janajati Jeebika Mission promotes livelihood opportunities through a cluster-based approach to boost income and living standards of ST households.

9.2 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDG) IN ODISHA

9.2.1 The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a roadmap to address the world’s pressing challenges, including poverty, inequality, and climate change. SDGs consist of 17 goals and 169 targets aimed at creating a better and more sustainable future for everyone by 2030. A key principle of this agenda is the commitment to ‘Leave No One Behind’ (LNOB). In India, NITI Aayog monitors SDG progress via the National Indicator Framework (NIF), while states play a crucial role in implementation.

9.2.2 Odisha has aligned its policies with Agenda 2030 and put in place an institutional mechanism for accelerating achievement of SDGs in the State. The State launched the Odisha SDG Indicator Framework (OSIF) in 2019, which was later updated to OSIF 2.0 in 2023, encompassing 311 indicators (293 unique) to align national priorities with the State needs. The SDG implementation is anchored by the Planning and Convergence Department and supported through SDG Cell across departments and districts. To support the implementation of OSIF 2.0, the State has developed several tools and manuals such as Mastering Metadata, which clearly defines computation methods, measurement units, data sources, reporting periodicity, and indicator directionality for each indicator. This ensures consistency, accuracy, and cross-sectoral comparability across the SDG monitoring system.

9.2.3 To localise the SDGs at the grassroot level, the State has also developed the District SDG Indicator Framework (DSIF) in consultation with line departments, district administrations, UN agencies, academia, and civil society organisations. The DSIF encompasses 183 indicators designed to facilitate comprehensive district-level SDG monitoring. Additionally, SDG dashboard has been developed to track key indicators, enabling timely decision-making and strengthening accountability across departments.

Figure 9.1: Interventions to accelerate SDG implementation in Odisha

01 Public Outreach** (Icon: Megaphone)
- Workshops for cross-sector alignment
- IEC campaigns with publicity tools and training materials
- Engagements via SDG@School
- Release of bilingual SDG Newsletter “Nirantara”
02 Monitoring and Review** (Icon: Document with checklist)
- Release of Odisha SDG Progress Report 2025
- Regular review of districts (involving DPMUs, line department officials, and BDOs.)
- Maintenance of SDG Dashboard
03 Institutional Framework** (Icon: Building with columns)
- Launched Odisha SDG Indicator Framework (OSIF), District SDG Indicator Framework (DSIF)
- SDG Cells across Departments and Districts
- SDG Budgeting
- SDG modules in training institutes

Source: SDG Cell, Planning and Convergence Department, Government of Odisha

9.2.4 Awareness and sensitisation about SDGs are critical for ensuring their acceptance and effective implementation. The State has organised numerous workshops at both national and state levels, complemented by Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns and outreach programs. Additionally, SDG training modules have been integrated across 12 major training institutes, reaching over 4,000 officials. These efforts have enhanced understanding of SDGs and strengthened engagement across departments as well as within communities. Other key interventions about SDG implementation efforts are highlighted in Figure 9.1.

Between 2020-21 and 2023-24, Odisha’s composite score on NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index has increased from 61 to 66, placing the State in Frontrunner category.

9.2.5 Between 2020-21 and 2023-24, considerable progress is evident, particularly in SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). This is reflected in a sharp reduction in multidimensional poverty, stronger labour market outcomes, and advances in waste management and circularity. Performance on SDGs like Gender Equality (SDG 5), and Quality Education (SDG 4) has declined, suggesting a pressing need to bolster policies that empower women, and improve educational outcomes.

Figure 9.2: Indicator-wise SDG score, Odisha

SDG Goal	2020-21 Score	2023-24 Score
1 No Poverty	41	73
2 Zero Hunger	42	45
3 Good Health and Well-being	67	73
4 Quality Education	45	40
5 Gender Equality	46	39
6 Clean Water and Sanitation	86	88
7 Affordable and Clean Energy	80	84
8 Decent Work and Economic Growth	48	75
9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure	46	48
10 Reduced Inequalities	66	64
11 Sustainable Cities and Communities	70	74
12 Responsible Consumption and Production	73	85
13 Climate Action	70	64
14 Life Below Water	82	70
15 Life on Land	83	76
16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions	59	62

Source: SDG India Index 2020-21 and 2023-24, NITI Aayog, Government of India

9.3 INCREASED PROSPERITY

9.3.1 Closely aligned with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty), Odisha has made progress in reducing multidimensional poverty. The multidimensional poverty headcount ratio has declined from 29.34 to 15.68 per cent between 2015-16 and 2019-21. During this period, 62.6 lakh people were lifted out of multidimensional poverty.

9.3.2 Rising consumption expenditure further reflects improving living standards in Odisha. Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) in Odisha has increased significantly in both rural and urban areas, with growth outpacing the average for India between 2011-12 and 2023-24. Importantly, the share of non-food expenditure has increased, while the share of food expenditure has declined. Within the food basket, there is a gradual shift towards protein-rich and higher-value items such as milk, eggs, fish, meat, and pulses, reflecting improved dietary quality. Together, these trends point to rising incomes, improved nutritional outcomes, and a structural transition towards higher prosperity.

9.3.3 Asset ownership patterns also reflect rising household prosperity in Odisha. Between 2011-12² and 2023-24, household two-wheeler ownership has increased from about 12 per cent to over 44 per cent in rural areas, and from 38 per cent to nearly 60 per cent in urban areas (Table 9.1). Car ownership, though modest, has also experienced an increase, from 0.5 per cent in rural areas and 6.2 per cent of urban areas to 1.1 per cent and 9.6 per cent, respectively.

²It is pertinent to note that both rounds of survey are not strictly comparable. This objective here is to assess trend in ownership of durable assets.

9.3.4 Ownership of household durables such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners (AC) has grown. Urban households in Odisha report refrigerator ownership of 46.3 per cent and AC ownership of 36.7 per cent, while rural households report increased ownership.

Rising ownership of durable assets reflects improved living standards and economic confidence.

9.3.5 Digital connectivity has expanded rapidly. Mobile phone ownership in rural areas increased from roughly 57 per cent in 2011-12 to nearly 86 per cent in 2023-24, while in urban areas, mobile ownership rose from around 86 per cent to 95 per cent during the same period. Laptops and PCs have also become more common, though growth rate is modest, signalling gradual deepening of digital participation. Overall, these trends demonstrate that an increasing number of households are acquiring durable assets that enhance convenience and quality of life.

Table 9.1: Household Ownership of Durable Assets, in per cent

Categories	Rural		Urban
	2011-12	2023-24	2011-12	2023-24
Mobility and Transportation
Two Wheeler*	11.9	44.4	38.4	59.2
Car	0.6	1.1	6.2	9.6
Household Appliances
Refrigerator	4.5	15.4	34.2	46.3
Air Conditioner	3.0	10.8	21.5	36.7
Washing Machine	0.7	2.7	16.3	25.2
Personal Goods
Mobile Phone	57.4	85.9	85.5	95.0
Laptop/PC	0.5	1.4	11.5	17.1

Source: Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023-24, NSS 68th Round, MoSPI, Government of India,
* Two Wheeler includes both motorcycle and scooter

9.4 QUALITY HEALTHCARE FOR ALL

9.4.1 Closely aligned with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Odisha has prioritised the expansion and modernisation of its healthcare system to ensure equitable access to quality health services. This commitment is reflected in a sustained increase in public health expenditure³, from ₹6.2 thousand crore in 2019-20 to ₹19.7 thousand crore in 2024-25 (RE). This investment has supported the establishment of new medical colleges, the upgradation of health facilities, and the strengthening of service delivery systems. Flagship

initiatives such as the integrated Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, and Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY-GJAY) have further ensured that health services are accessible and inclusive.

Healthcare Infrastructure

9.4.2 Odisha has made strides in developing and revamping healthcare infrastructure across both rural and urban areas. As of 2025-26, the State has over 8,500 public healthcare facilities, with further expansion plans underway.

9.4.3 A key initiative in this regard is the Ama Hospital Scheme, which targets the upgradation of 149 health institutions including District Headquarters Hospitals (DHH), Sub-District Hospitals (SDH), and Community Health Centres (CHC). The target is to subsequently extend this scheme to cover all public health facilities in the future. Additionally, efforts are underway to procure modern equipment and diagnostic machines for DHHs to enhance quality service delivery.

9.4.4 Complementing physical upgrades, the State’s NIRMAL Scheme addresses dimensions of patient safety and quality care by promoting clean, infection-free hospital environments across all public healthcare facilities. The scheme is structured into three progressive tiers, NIRMAL, NIRMAL+, and NIRMAL++, encompassing a comprehensive network of healthcare facilities. The initial level encompasses District Headquarters Hospitals (DHHs), Sub-District Hospitals (SDHs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Sub-Centres (SCs). The other tiers extend coverage to medical colleges, tertiary public hospitals, and specialised healthcare institutions. Through this initiative, the State is also working to meet the national quality benchmarks, including National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS). During 2024-25, a total of 1,598 health facilities were certified under NQAS, a substantial increase from over 586 facilities in 2023-24. The certified facilities span the spectrum of DHHs, SDHs, CHCs, PHCs, and SCs.

Figure 9.3: Number of health institutions certified under National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS)

Fiscal Year	Number of Institutions
2020-21	2
2021-22	17
2022-23	161
2023-24	586
2024-25	1598

Source: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Odisha

³Public health expenditure is estimated as the sum of two components: (i) Medical and Public Health, and (ii) Family Welfare.

9.4.5 Emergency care services form another vital component of healthcare. The State’s Emergency Medical Ambulance Service (EMAS), with a fleet of 860 ambulances, ensures that critical patients receive timely care in emergency situations. The State has set a target to reduce the average ambulance response time from 30 minutes to 20 minutes. Further, to expand healthcare access for remote and underserved populations, Mobile Health Units (MHUs), under the Swasthya Sanjog scheme, provide monthly fixed-day primary care services in identified villages. Staffed with doctors and paramedical personnel and equipped with essential medicines, these MHUs bring healthcare directly to communities in hard-to-reach areas.

9.4.6 The State’s medical education infrastructure, comprising 22 medical colleges, 1 AIIMS, and 4 dental colleges across both public and private sectors, play a vital role in bolstering Odisha’s healthcare system (Table 9.2). Annually, these institutions train 3,025 doctors, ensuring a steady supply of qualified healthcare workers. Additionally, the State plans to develop a roadmap within the next 12 months to establish a medical college in every district, thereby strengthening the skilled healthcare workforce.

Table 9.2: Medical Education Infrastructure and Student Intake for 2024-25

Category	Program	Government		Private (including PPP)
		Number	Intake	Number	Intake
Medical College	-	17	1,925	6	1,100
Pharmacy College	-	1	60	107	5,420
Nursing College	B.Sc	8	750	262	16,048
	M.Sc	3	125	25	755
Nursing School	-			345	20,005
ANM Training Centres	-	21	840	216	9,870

Source: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Odisha

9.4.7 The State’s nursing education infrastructure plays a key role in meeting the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals. While government colleges have moderate intake capacities, private institutions significantly expand enrolment opportunities. Annually, the government institutions train 750 nurses through B.Sc. programs, whereas the private sector trains over 16,000 nurses (Table 9.2).

9.4.8 Investment in human resources is prioritised through ongoing capacity building programs, including targeted training for ICU and nursing personnel, ensuring healthcare providers are skilled and able to optimise infrastructure advancements. Additionally, healthcare workers willing to serve in remote areas are supported with incentives and enhanced accommodation funded by dedicated corpus fund.

Equity and Access to Health Services

9.4.9 Odisha has undertaken measures to overcome financial, geographic, and social barriers that impede access to healthcare. Central to this progress is the integrated Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana (GJAY), which was launched in 2025 alongside the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana (AVVY).

9.4.10 Under the AB-PMJAY-GJAY, 1.03 crore families comprising 3.46 crore beneficiaries (including all NFSF/SFSS beneficiaries and beneficiaries of other State health schemes) are covered with an entitlement of ₹5 lakh per family per year, and an additional ₹5 lakh per year for women members, ensuring free hospitalisation at all government and empanelled private hospitals. Complementing this, the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana (AVVY) provides similar benefits to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of their socio-economic status, including taxpayers and pensioners.

As of January 2026, 1.63 crore AB-PMJAY-GJAY cards have been distributed, placing Odisha first at the national level, while 6.76 lakh beneficiaries have been enrolled under AVVY, ranking the State sixth nationwide.

9.4.11 Cashless treatments are available through an extensive network of 32,000 empanelled hospitals nationwide, including all government hospitals and 771 private empanelled hospitals in Odisha. So far, around 7.21 lakh beneficiaries have availed health services under AB-PMJAY-GJAY, with a total expenditure of ₹2.8 thousand crore. Under AVVY, 18,966 beneficiaries have received treatment, amounting to an expenditure of ₹113.03 crore.

9.4.12 Additionally, Odisha offers a wide range of essential healthcare services free of cost, including medicines, diagnostic tests, and specialised treatments such as cancer care. Through the Niramaya program, the State ensures the availability of 1,087 essential medicines across all public health facilities. Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has benefited over 40 crore patients, reducing the financial burden of accessing essential treatments. Complementing the provision of free medicines, the State provides extensive diagnostic support through the Nidaan program, which benefits about 4 crore patients annually. The program provides access to critical diagnostic tests including CT scans, MRIs, X-rays, and advanced pathology services free of cost at public health facilities, in line with the designated level of care.

9.4.13 Odisha has also strengthened healthcare access for populations in underserved, remote, and hard-to-reach areas. To bridge geographic barriers, the State operates 177 Mobile Health Units (MHUs), covering over 5,500 locations and delivering essential primary healthcare services at the doorstep. It is complemented by the Mukhya Mantri Bayu Swasthya Seva scheme⁴, which leverages air connectivity to provide timely specialist consultations and medical care to patients in inaccessible regions. Emergency response mechanisms have also been enhanced through the deployment of air, boat, and bike ambulances, ensuring rapid medical evacuation across diverse terrains. In addition, the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) specifically address the needs of Primitive Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), delivering essential healthcare services through dedicated MHUs across 55 identified blocks.

⁴The scheme is currently implemented across four districts – Nuapada, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri in a pilot mode.

9.4.14 The State has also prioritised the prevention, early detection, and management of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Under the National Sickle Cell Disease Mission, over 41 lakh individuals were screened in 2024-25, and 4.07 lakh sickle cell cards were distributed during the same period. Similarly, under the National Program for Non-communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), all individual above 30 years of age are screened through Population Based Screening for Hypertension, Diabetes, Common Cancers (Oral, Breast and Cervical) at village and Sub Health Centre levels by trained Community Health Officers (CHOs), Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), and Medical Officers (Table 9.3).

9.4.15 For diseases requiring specialised care, such as cancer, the State has established District Day Care Cancer Chemotherapy Centres (DCCCs) across all DHHs, Rourkela Government Hospital (RGH), and Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar where trained Medical Officers and Nursing Officers provide chemotherapy services to cancer patients. To date, approximately 78,000 patients have benefitted from chemotherapy services. To ensure accessibility, all drugs and diagnostic procedures are provided entirely free of cost to beneficiaries at these centres. Furthermore, cloud-based Tele-ECG services are provided under the Prevention and Control of Cardiovascular Diseases program through a Hub-and-Spoke model, comprising 4 Hubs and 133 Spokes across CHCs, SDH and DHHs.

Table 9.3: Non-communicable Diseases Screening and Diagnosis, 2024-25, in Lakhs

Non-Communicable Diseases	Individuals Screened	Individuals Diagnosed and in Treatment
Hypertension	203.8	22.1
Diabetes	203.9	12.5
Oral cancer	200.7	0.3
Breast cancer	103.1	0.1
Cervical cancer	41.0	0.1

Source: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Odisha

Health Impact and Outcomes

9.4.16 Life expectancy as a health indicator, reflects the influence of public policies, healthcare systems, and broader socio-economic factors. According to latest Sample Registration System (SRS) data, Odisha’s life expectancy at birth⁵ increased from 64.8 years in 2009-13 to 70.5 years in 2019-23, reflecting an improvement of 5.7 years. In comparison, India’s life expectancy rose from 67.5 years to 70.3 years over the same period, an improvement of 2.8 years, placing Odisha marginally above the national average.

Odisha’s life expectancy increased from 64.8 years (2009-13) to 70.5 years (2019-23), surpassing India’s 70.3 years.

⁵Life expectancy at birth indicates the number of years a newborn infant would live if prevailing patterns of mortality at the time of its birth were to stay the same throughout its life.

Figure 9.4: Life expectancy at birth, Odisha and India, in years

Category	Period	Odisha	India
Temporal Trends	2009-13	64.8	67.5
	2019-23	70.5	70.3
Gender-wise Trends	Female	2009-13	65.9	71.8
		2019-23	69.3	72.5
	Male	2009-13	63.8	69.4
		2019-23	65.8	68.5

Source: Sample Registration System (SRS) Based Abridged Life Tables 2009-13 and 2019-23, Government of India

9.4.17 Maternal health is a core pillar of the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCH) framework⁶. Investment in maternal health helps improve the survival and well-being of mothers, while laying the foundation for children’s development and long-term well-being. Within this framework, family planning is a key public health intervention that supports maternal health by enabling optimal timing and spacing of births, thereby lowering women’s exposure to high-risk pregnancies. Recognising this, the State has prioritised expanding access to and use of reversible contraceptive methods. To encourage adoption of modern contraceptives, several awareness and engagement initiatives have been implemented at the community level. One such activity is the organisation of Sasu-Bohu Sammelans (mother-in-law and daughter-in-law gatherings) at the village level, fostering open discussions on family planning and reproductive health within families. Additionally, the distribution of Naba Dampati Kit to newly married couples provide families with essential information and resources.

9.4.18 In addition to family planning initiatives, the State has implemented various demand-side schemes to improve access to maternal healthcare services. Key programs include MAMATA-PMMVY (Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana) scheme, jointly implemented since April 2025, which provides wage compensation and supports health and nutritional status of pregnant and lactating women. Benefits are provided for the first two pregnancies, with an enhanced amount of ₹12,000 for the birth of a girl child, compared to ₹10,000 for a male child. To further strengthen safe childbirth, the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) promotes institutional deliveries by providing ₹1,400 in rural and ₹1,000 in urban areas to women delivering in government health facilities.

⁶The RMNCH framework emphasises a continuum of care, spanning pre-conception, pregnancy, childbirth, postnatal care, and early childhood, to improve health outcomes for women and their children.

Figure 9.5: Major maternal health interventions

6. Surakshit Matritva Ashwasan (SUMAN)

Accommodation near delivery centers, and free care for pregnant women, mothers, newborns up to 6 months, and
At 3,138 public facilities as of July 2025

5. Janani Shisu Surakshya Karyakram (JSSK)

Free services in public institutions, including delivery, transport, diagnostics, medicines, consumables
4,24,383 beneficiaries during 2024-25

4. Janani Surakya Yojana (JSY)

Promotes institutional delivery via demand promotion and cash incentives
4,21,699 beneficiaries in 2024-25

1. MAMATA and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

Promote maternal health and nutritional status,
Offers cash incentive of ₹12,000 for girl and ₹10,000 male child
Covered 2.7 lakh beneficiaries as of 2025

2. Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) & e-PMSMA

Screen antenatal cases for high-risk pregnancies, and follows-up with ASHA’s support
Covered 4,09,691 cases in 2024-25.

3. Sishu Abang Matru Mrutyu ra Purna Nirakarana Abhiyan (SAMMPurNA)

Promotes institutional delivery via demand promotion and cash incentives
Offers reimbursement of transport cost of ₹1,000 for institutional delivery in notified difficult villages.

Source: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha

9.4.19 Odisha has also strengthened the institutional foundations of maternal healthcare through the expansion of specialised Maternal and Child Health (MCH) wings, the operationalisation of delivery points, among others. Of the targeted 72 MCH wings, 53 (73.6 per cent) are now operational. The State has also prioritised the functionalisation of 1,190 delivery points, with 442 (37.1 per cent) currently active, alongside 4 medical colleges providing delivery services. Emergency obstetric care capacity has also expanded, with 74 of 94 First Referral Units (FRUs) (78.7 per cent) offering caesarean sections, supported by 51 blood banks and 42 blood storage units statewide. However, while substantial investments have expanded coverage and infrastructure for maternal health services, improvements in the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)⁷ have been gradual (Figure 9.6).

⁷Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is derived as the proportion of maternal deaths per 1,00,000 live births

Figure 9.6: Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), in number of deaths per 1,00,000 live births

Year	Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)
2015-17	168
2016-18	150
2017-19	136
2018-20	119
2019-21	135
2020-22	136
2021-23	153

Source: Sample Registration System (SRS) Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality, Government of India

9.4.20 Child health interventions in Odisha follow a lifecycle approach, ensuring care from birth through early childhood (Figure 9.7). The State has strengthened newborn care through a tiered system: Newborn Care Corners (NBCC) for immediate postnatal support, Stabilisation Units (NBSU) for managing sick newborns, and Special Newborn Care Units (SNCU) for critically ill infants, complemented by Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) to promote early breastfeeding and care. Specialised services in Paediatric and Neonatal ICUs are provided to critically ill children. Further, home-based monitoring and interventions are undertaken, including STOP Diarrhoea and Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully (SAANS), focusing on early detection and reduction of diarrhoeal diseases.

9.4.21 Between 2019 and 2023, Odisha achieved reduction in key child mortality indicators, including Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR)⁸, Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)⁹ and Under 5 Mortality Rate (U5MR)¹⁰. The NMR fell from 30 to 21 per 1,000 live births, while the IMR decreased from 38 to 30 per 1,000 live births (Figure 9.8). The U5MR also declined from 43 to 35 per 1,000 live births over the same time. These improvements reflect the State’s efforts to strengthen maternal and newborn healthcare services, alongside investments in immunisation, nutrition, etc.

⁸Neo-natal mortality Rate (NMR) is the number of neonatal deaths during a specific period per 1,000 live births in that year. Neonatal deaths are deaths occurring during the neonatal period - commencing at birth and ending 28 completed days after birth.

⁹Infant mortality rate (or IMR) is defined as the number of infant deaths per 1,000 live births during the specific period.

¹⁰Under 5 mortality rate (U5MR) is defined as the number deaths of children aged below five years per 1000 live births during the specific period.

Figure 9.7: Key child health interventions

Newborn Care Corner

To provide newborn care immediately after birth.
533 Newborn Care Corners are functional at all delivery points.

STOP Diarrhea Campaign

ASHA workers visited homes to teach ORS prep, recognize danger signs, and guide timely care.
Children under five, who received ORS increased from 84 per cent in 2017-18 to 99 per cent in 2024-25.

Newborn Stabilization Units and (NBSU) and Sick Newborn Care Units (SNCU)

For treatment of sick and low birth weight new-born.
67 NBSUs, and 44 SNCU are functional
Successful discharge rate at SNCUs improved from 72 per cent in 2017-18 to 83 per cent in 2024-25.

Pediatric Hybrid Intensive Care Units Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU)

4 PICUs established at Medical College and Hospital level.
29 Hybrid ICU across DHHs and SVPPGIP for advanced critical care.
Oxygen support is available in pediatric wards across all 32 DHHs.

Source: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha

Figure 9.8: Child health indicators, Odisha and India, in numbers

Indicator	Year	Odisha	India
Neonatal Mortality Rate (per 1,000 live births)	2019	30	22
	2023	21	19
Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000 live births)	2019	38	30
	2023	30	25
Under-5 Mortality Rate (per 1,000 live births)	2019	43	35
	2023	35	29

Source: Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2019 and 2023, Government of India

9.4.22 Nutrition is vital for children’s health outcomes. Over the years, Odisha has implemented several initiatives to strengthen child nutrition and well-being. The Nutrition Budget, a key initiative, reflects the State’s commitment to this cause. Odisha has allocated ₹72.5 thousand crore under the Nutrition Budget, marking a 10 per cent increase over the previous year and representing 26.3 per cent of the Budget 2025-26.

9.4.23 Further, Odisha has implemented schemes such as the Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP), which provides take-home rations or hot cooked meals for children aged 6 months to 6 years. Building on this, the Mukhyamantri Sampoorna Pushti Yojana (MSPY) offers enhanced support, including take-home rations and egg supplementation, targeting severely malnourished and underweight children. Its sub-component, the Pada Pusti Karyakram (PPK), further extends nutritional support to preschool children in hard-to-reach villages. Additionally, micronutrient deficiencies and anaemia are addressed through the National Iron Plus Initiative (NIPI), and Anaemia Mukta Lakshya Abhiyan (AMLAN), which focus on supplementation, screening, and therapeutic intervention.

Figure 9.9: Key nutrition interventions focusing on child

Mukhyamantri Sampoorna Pushti Yojana (MSPY)	POSHAN ABHIYAAN
Transform nutritional outcomes via take home ration for high-risk groups Implemented across all 338 ICDS projects	Reduce undernutrition and improve nutritional outcomes among high-risk groups Enrolled 41.6 Lakh beneficiaries to avail services during 2024-25

Provision of Supplements	Anaemia Mukta Lakshya Abhiyan (AMLAN)
National Iron Plus Initiative (NIPI): IFA for children (6 months – 9 years) Coverage of 76 per cent (6-59 months), 81 per cent (5-9 years) in 2024-25 Vitamin supplementation* for children 9 months – 5 years Coverage of 98.1 per cent in 2024-25	Screens for hemoglobin levels and provision of therapeutic doses to high-risk groups 1.5 crore screened; 33 lakh therapeutic doses distributed

*Administered to children at all Govt. & Govt. Aided schools

Source: Department of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha

9.4.24 It is equally important to highlight Poshan Abhiyaan, which aims to improve nutritional outcomes among children (aged 0-6 years), as well as adolescents, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. To ensure effective implementation, a dedicated workforce has been deployed at all Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) projects and at district levels, utilising the IT-based POSHAN Tracker tool. In 2024-25, a total of around 4 lakh beneficiaries were enrolled to access services under Poshan Abhiyaan, with over 99 per cent authenticated through Aadhaar verification.

SUPOSHIT Odisha Mission (SOM)

The State has initiated the SUPOSHIT Odisha Mission (SOM) to tackle severe wasting of and underweight among children. An Anganwadi Centre (AWC) is designated as SUPOSHIT when it reports no cases of severe wasting or severe underweight. Further, a sector achieves SUPOSHIT status when more than 80 per cent of its AWCs meet this criterion. To ensure transparency and data integrity, the SOM Monitoring Dashboard was launched in 2025, featuring independent third-party validation mechanisms for credibility of the reported data.

9.4.25 Adolescent health encompasses the well-being of individuals between 10 to 19 years of age. The State has undertaken various initiatives to promote adolescent health and well-being. A key intervention, the ADVIKA scheme adopts an inclusive, gender-sensitive approach, empowering around 23 lakh adolescents, both girls and boys, through weekly sessions at Anganwadi centres. Health and nutrition form one of its four core thematic areas, alongside life skills and self-development, gender and rights, and digital and financial literacy.

9.4.26 Complementing this, the Mukhyamantri Sampoorna Pushti Yojana (MSPY) provides for take-home rations for nutritional support to adolescent girls, tailored to whether they reside in aspirational or non-aspirational districts. Additionally, the Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG) adopts a life-cycle approach to combat malnutrition, targeting girls aged 14 to 18 in ten aspirational districts with monthly take-home ration to improve their nutritional status.

9.4.27 Another key intervention is the Anaemia Mukta Lakshya Abhiyan (AMLAN), which focuses on early detection of anaemia in high-risk groups, including adolescent girls, through systematic screening. The program facilitates timely treatment by providing therapeutic doses of iron and essential nutrients. To date overall, 1.5 crore individuals have been screened, and 33 lakh therapeutic doses distributed across the State.

9.5 QUALITY OF LIFE AND WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

9.5.1 Closely aligned with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Odisha has made efforts to enhance women’s workforce participation and overall quality of life. According to the Time Use Survey (TUS), women are increasingly reallocating time from unpaid domestic work toward paid employment, leisure, and social activities. These trends are supported by policy focus on and resource allocation towards women empowerment. For instance, the Gender Budget 2025-26, at ₹89.9 thousand crore, is 18.8 per cent higher than the previous year, signalling the State’s commitment to women empowerment.

Time and Well-Being

9.5.2 The Time Use Survey (TUS) 2024 indicates an improvement in quality of life for all genders, especially women. Between 2019 and 2024, women increased the proportion of their daily time devoted to employment and related activities, including work in household enterprises. Further, the proportion of time spent on learning also increased between 2019 and 2024.

Enhanced quality of women’s life through greater social and cultural engagement, increased time spent on employment, and reduced time spent on chores.

Figure 9.10: Share of time spent daily on various daily activities, Odisha, in per cent

Activity	Gender	2019	2024
Employment and Related Activities	Female	3.5%	4.2%
	Male	21.8%	22.3%
	Female	2.7%	2.9%
	Male	3.5%	2.8%

Source: Time Use Survey(TUS) 2019 and 2024, MoSPI, Government of India

9.5.3 Over the same period, the share of daily time women devoted to unpaid domestic work declined, potentially reflecting the effects of labour-saving technologies (Figure 9.11). Nonetheless, women continue to shoulder the majority of caregiving responsibilities, particularly childcare, highlighting the persistent expectation that they remain central to family care. For women to actively engage in economic activities, therefore it is important to provide a supportive ecosystem, including childcare services.

Figure 9.11: Share of time spent daily on domestic services, caregiving, and leisure activities, Odisha, in per cent

Activity	Gender	2019	2024
Domestic Services	Female	22.8%	20.3%
	Male	2.1%	2.0%
	Female	3.1%	3.7%
	Male	0.7%	1.1%
Caregiving Services	Female	8.1%	9.4%
	Male	9.1%	11.8%
	Female	8.1%	9.4%
	Male	9.1%	11.8%

Source: Time Use Survey(TUS) 2019 and 2024, MoSPI, Government of India

9.5.4 In addition, women allocated a larger share of their day to leisure, cultural, and social activities, while time devoted to self-care, including adequate sleep, remained stable, supporting overall well-being. These patterns indicate that women are increasingly participating in economic activities as well as reclaiming time for personal and social activities in daily life.

Economic Participation

9.5.5 Enhancing labour force participation and fostering entrepreneurship are critical drivers of women’s economic empowerment. Odisha has implemented several initiatives to support women’s financial independence, livelihoods, and entrepreneurship. Mission Shakti is the State’s umbrella women empowerment program, aimed at strengthening women’s Self-Help Groups

(SHGs). As of 2024-25, Mission Shakti comprises over 6 lakh SHGs with a membership of 70 lakh women. Key schemes under this initiative include Subhadra Yojana and Lakhpati Didi.

9.5.6 The flagship scheme, SUBHADRA, provides ₹50,000 in financial support over five years (until 2028-29) to women aged 21 to 60, advancing their economic empowerment. This initiative complements broader efforts to promote financial autonomy and productive asset creation among women. In 2025, over ₹10 thousand crore was disbursed to more than 1 crore beneficiaries, with payments timed to coincide with key occasions, enhancing both visibility and outreach.

9.5.7 A state-wide survey, SUBHADRA Samikhya, conducted jointly by the Department of Women and Child Development and the Department of Higher Education, assessed the scheme’s impact using a sample of approximately 22,000 beneficiaries. The findings reveal that the initiative has effectively empowered women by promoting productive use of funds, enhancing financial autonomy, and increasing confidence in money management. As a result, there has been an increase in investments in livelihoods and asset creation, highlighting the scheme’s critical role in fostering sustainable economic empowerment.

Figure 9.12: Findings on SUBHADRA based on impact assessment

Productive use & asset creation	Financial Autonomy & decision-making	Confidence & influencing factors
Around 80% of funds are channelled for productive use, including livelihoods, education, and household asset creation.	Approximately 65% of women report a clear improvement in their financial autonomy after receiving funds	An overwhelming 98% of beneficiaries report increased confidence in handling money and greater preparedness for the future.
Nearly 80% of women aspire to use future transfers for business expansion and asset creation.	Independent financial agency increases with age, while joint household decisions continue to be the prevailing pattern.	Educational attainment and stage of life strongly influence how effectively beneficiaries deploy SUBHADRA funds.

Source: Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha

9.5.8 The Lakhpati Didi scheme is another key initiative aimed at empowering rural women by promoting entrepreneurship and livelihoods, in alignment with the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). The scheme seeks to improve the economic prospects of women in self-help groups by enabling them to earn an annual income of ₹1 lakh. While the target is to create 25 lakh Lakhpati Didis by 2027, 16.42 lakh women have already achieved this milestone in Odisha.

Lakhpati Didi: Lusa Gannik’s Path to Economic Empowerment

Lusa Gannik from Rengalik village leveraged the Lakhpati Didi initiative to receive enterprise training and credit through the Community Investment Fund (CIF). She started a successful business, earning ₹12.55 lakh annually. Her income supports her family and their education, exemplifying the impact of women’s economic empowerment.

9.5.9 Entrepreneurship and market linkage initiatives have helped women SHGs to operate micro enterprises such as Subhadra Shakti Cafés, Retail Marts, Millet Shakti Centres, as well as engage in organic farming, floriculture, handicrafts, and textile production. These activities have contributed to product diversification and income generation among SHGs. To strengthen these initiatives, SHGs receive capacity-building training at the block level. During 2024-25, 498 SHG members received basic training on SHG/Federation management, institutional strengthening and leadership. Additionally, 200 SHGs were trained in cafe management, and 72 SHG members received bakery training.

The State organised the Subhadra Shakti Mela in 2025, along with 4 regional melas in Puri, Sambalpur, Bolangir, and Malkangiri. The events showcased products from 892 SHGs and generated around ₹8.9 crore in sales.

9.5.10 The State also engages the SHGs to provide goods and services across various departments. SHGs deliver services across 19 departments, including paddy procurement, take-home rations production and supply, school uniforms supply, electricity meter reading and bill collection, among others. This generated around ₹4.4 thousand crore in business for SHGs in 2024-25.

9.5.11 To facilitate these activities and expand SHG operations, the State provides financial support through various schemes. Under the SHG bank linkage program, 3.52 Lakh SHGs received finance totalling ₹17.5 thousand crore in 2024-25. In addition, the Mission Shakti Loan Scheme offers interest-free loans up to ₹10 lakh, with nearly ₹300 crore disbursed as interest reimbursement during the same year.

9.5.12 The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), an initiative by NITI Aayog, is expected to complement these initiatives by providing a public-private partnership (PPP) based aggregator platform to promote women entrepreneurship. It addresses six key ecosystem needs including Access to Finance, Market Linkages, Training and Skilling, Mentoring and Networking, Compliance and Legal Assistance, and Business Development Services bridging gaps in information and providing continuous support to aspiring women entrepreneurs. With in-principle approval for a State chapter and the formation of Steering and Executive Committees, a State hub of WEP will be set up to bring together government, private, and community initiatives, to support and grow women’s entrepreneurship.

9.5.13 Together, these initiatives have contributed to a measurable rise in women’s labour force participation rate in Odisha. Between 2022 and 2024, the female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) rose from 37.6 per cent to 48.7 per cent, accounting for a 11.1 percentage points increase. Moreover, Odisha has made progress in closing the gender gap in labour force participation, reducing the difference between male and female LFPR from 41 percentage points in 2022 to 32.9 percentage points in 2024.

Figure 9.13: Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR), Odisha and India for age group 15 years and above, in per cent

Country	2022 (%)	2024 (%)
Odisha	37.6	48.7
India	33.9	40.3

Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022 and 2024, MoSPI, Government of India

9.5.14 While Odisha has made progress in women’s participation, the structure of employment indicates areas for improvement. The female workforce is heavily concentrated in self-employment (74 per cent) and casual labour (17.9 per cent), with a comparatively smaller share of regular wage jobs (8.1 per cent). These patterns may be partly influenced by the sectoral distribution, according to PLFS 2024, the majority of women continue to be engaged in the agricultural sector (69.5 per cent). Further, the industrial sector employs 16.8 per cent of female workers, while the service sector accounts for 13.7 per cent,

Figure 9.14: Sectoral composition of female workforce, Odisha, in per cent

Year	Agriculture (%)	Industry (%)	Services (%)
2022	65.8	17.5	16.7
2024	69.5	16.8	13.7

Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022 and 2024, MoSPI, Government of India

Education and Skilling

9.5.15 Investment in girls’ education remain critical to dismantling barriers and fostering women empowerment. Between 2017-18 and 2023-24, Odisha’s female literacy rate increased from 70 per cent to 73.3 per cent, though still below the male literacy rate of 84.9 per cent, reflecting progress.

9.5.16 Between 2023-24 and 2024-25, the female Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) has remained largely stable across all stages of schooling. At the foundational stage, enrolment for girls remains around 35 per cent, similar to boys, highlighting a persistent challenge in early schooling. In contrast, near-universal enrolment has been achieved at the preparatory (Classes 3-5) and middle (Classes 6-8) levels. At the secondary level, GER for girls (74.3 per cent) declines compared to these stages but continues to be higher than that of boys (70.4 per cent). This pattern suggests that while early-stage enrolment requires interventions, efforts to support female retention in higher grades are yielding positive results. Further, in higher education, women made up over 58 per cent of the more than 2 lakhs enrolled in 2024-25.

Figure 9.15: Female gross enrolment ratio (GER), Odisha, in per cent

Educational Stage	2023-24 (%)	2024-25 (%)
Foundational (Pre-Primary to Class II)	35.2	34.8
Preparatory (Class III to Class V)	96.8	94.8
Middle (Class VI to Class VIII)	96.2	96.4
Secondary (Class IX to XII)	71.5	74.3

Source: Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) 2023-24 and 2024-25, Ministry of Education, Government of India.

9.5.17 Building on the progress in education, the State has advanced skilling and vocational training initiatives. The Sudakshya scheme, for instance, has boosted female participation in technical education by offering financial support, including maintenance allowances during training and apprenticeships, and post-placement incentives. As a result, female enrolment in government ITIs and polytechnics rose to 28 per cent and 32 per cent respectively in 2025-26, up from 6 percent in ITI in 2016-17 and 18 per cent in polytechnic in 2022-23.

Iron Girls of Odisha

6 Girls from Govt. ITI Barbil, trained in trades such as Electrician, Fitter, and Mechanic Machine Tool, under the Sudakshya scheme, have successfully secured employment with JSW Steel. Their achievement demonstrates the impact of targeted technical education programs in and promoting gender-inclusive workforce participation.

9.5.18 Complementing these efforts, the Placement Linked Training Program (PLTP), which targets youth, has offered demand-driven, short-term skills training ranging from 2 to 6 months. Over the past three years, more than 28,000 candidates have been trained under PLTP, with female participation increasing from 29 per cent in 2021-22 to 73 per cent in 2024-25. This initiative has equipped women with industry-relevant skills across sectors such as apparel, construction, and healthcare.

Support Ecosystem

9.5.19 Anchored in the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (Section 11A) and the Prarambh Odisha Policy, the State has made efforts to institutionalise workplace and community crèche facilities to enhance women’s workforce participation. Operational crèches are currently established at key government offices in Bhubaneswar, including Lokaseva Bhawan, Krushi Bhawan, and Kharavela Bhawan, and at district collectorates such as Jharsuguda and Keonjhar. To scale this initiative across all 30 districts, the State has allocated a one-time grant of ₹3 lakh per district for 2025-26 to facilitate crèche establishment. Simultaneously, the formulation of the KALIKA Odisha State Care Policy is underway to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that will ensure quality standards for childcare centres serving children aged six months to six years.

9.5.20 The centrally sponsored Palna program, DMF-funded crèches in mining-affected areas of Keonjhar, and Odisha Mineral Bearing Area Development Corporation (OMBADC) supported facilities in tribal districts address childcare needs in vulnerable communities. To date, these initiatives have operationalised over 3,000 crèche centres, empowering women, particularly from marginalised groups, to balance caregiving responsibilities alongside gainful employment.

9.5.21 The State has also established Sakhi Niwas hostels to provide safe and conveniently located accommodation for working women and those pursuing higher education or vocational training. Currently, 16 hostels are operational across 12 districts of the State.

9.5.22 Fostering safe and supportive environments remains another key priority. At its core, the 24-hour Women Helpline (181), linked with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS 112), operates at state and district levels to provide timely assistance and information to women in need. Complementing this, 39 One Stop Centres (OSCs) across 30 districts provide immediate support to women in distress, including temporary shelter, police assistance, medical care, counselling, and legal assistance. For long-term relief and rehabilitation, the State provides Shakti Sadans, which are dedicated to survivors of violence, women in distress, and trafficked women.

Figure 9.16: Initiatives for strengthening ecosystem

Creche	Working Women Hostel
Operational in key government offices across Bhubaneswar, district collectorates Additional 3,000 centres established under various initiatives serves childcare needs of vulnerable communities	Sakhi Niwas offers safe accommodation for working women and students. 16 facilities operational across 12 districts.
Safety and Security	Reforms and Incentives
24-hour Women Helpline (181) linked with emergency and child helplines. 39 One Stop Centres providing immediate support across all districts. 68 Shakti Sadans offering long-term rehabilitation for women in distress.	Amended the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act to allow women to work during night shifts, with appropriate safety measures. Government provides employment cost subsidy of ₹7,000 per month for female workers under Odisha Apparel & Textiles policy

Source: Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Odisha

9.5.23 In 2025, the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act was amended and, among other provisions, lifted restrictions on women working night shifts, subject to safeguards to ensure women’s safety and compliance with any additional state directives. The reform applies to establishments with 20 or more employees. Furthermore, under the Odisha Apparel and Textiles Policy, the State provides an employment cost subsidy of ₹7,000 per month for female workers, further supporting women’s employment.

9.6 ACCESS TO BASIC SERVICES

9.6.1 Closely aligned with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), Odisha has narrowed disparities in access to essential services across both rural and urban areas. Today, a greater number of homes have functional tap water connections, access to clean and safe sanitation facilities, and use clean cooking fuels.

9.6.2 Housing is recognised as a fundamental right under the ambit of the Right to Life guaranteed by Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The State is committed to providing pucca houses to all eligible households under various initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) among others (Figure 9.17). In 2025, the State launched the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, targeting

below poverty line families that had remained outside the coverage of earlier housing schemes. Building on this commitment, the State has constructed over 12 lakh houses over the past five years, reflecting steady progress (Figure 9.18).

Figure 9.17: Initiatives to ensure housing for all

Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G)	Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)	Antyodaya Gruha Yojana
Launched in 2016-17 to provide pucca houses to rural families living in kutcha/dilapidated houses. By 2024-25, 23.6 lakh houses were constructed	Launched in 2023-24 targeting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). By 2024-25, 9,958 houses were constructed	Targets rural families that are not covered under PMAY-G or other initiatives. In 2024-25, target was to construct around 60,000 houses.

Source: Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, Government of Odisha

Figure 9.18: Houses constructed in rural areas, in lakhs

Year	Houses constructed (in lakhs)
2020-21	4.4
2021-22	1.1
2022-23	0.3
2023-24	3.9
2024-25	2.8

Source: Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, Government of Odisha

9.6.3 State has made progress in expanding access to affordable housing across the Urban Local Bodies. As of 2025, nearly 11.9 lakh houses have been provided through public schemes and private provisioning. Of these, 18,150 were completed in 2024-25.

9.6.4 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) are critical determinants of public health, quality of life, and nutritional outcomes. The State is promoting this agenda through a range of targeted initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, Basudha scheme, AMRUT, SUJAL, Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G), among others.

9.6.5 Odisha aims to provide piped water supply connections to all households by 2026 through initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), Basudha scheme, AMRUT, and SUJAL. According to the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) dashboard, as of January 2026, about 77 percent of rural households, equivalent to 68 lakh households, have tap water connections, up from just 3 per cent in 2019. In urban areas, the State aims to cover all 115 urban local bodies with household tap connections, ensuring 24x7 potable water supply under AMRUT and SUJAL. As of 2025, 24x7 water supply projects have been completed in 11 towns across the State.

11 towns have completed 24x7 piped water supply projects, including Puri, Nimapara, Berhampur, Gopalpur, Rajgangpur, Biramitrapur, Rairangpur, Champua, Hinjilicut, Sundergarh, and Anandapur.

Figure 9.19: Access to tap water supply in rural areas

	As of 15 Aug 2019	As of 25 Nov 2025
Number of households with tap water connections (in lakhs)	3.1	68.4
Percentage of households with tap water connection (%)	3.5	77.1

Source: Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) Dashboard (Data accessed on 24.01.2026)

9.6.6 Access to sanitation in Odisha has improved over the last decade, largely driven by the implementation of the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G). The State has achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, reflecting near-universal household toilet coverage in rural areas. Building on this, Odisha has progressed towards ODF Plus and ODF Plus Model Villages status, emphasising the sustained use of toilets and improved solid and liquid waste management (SLWM). As part of this effort, 1,08460 individual household latrines (IHLs) and 582 community sanitary complexes (CSCs) were constructed in 2024-25. These initiatives have contributed to 44,933 villages being declared ODF Plus Model Villages.

9.6.7 In 2025-26, Odisha launched ‘Swacha Odisha’ to enhance solid, liquid and wastewater management in towns and cities. The initiative focuses on 100 per cent bioremediation of legacy waste, establishment of bio-gas plants in major cities, and enhancement of overall solid waste management systems.

Transforming Waste to Wealth

At the Pokhariput Wealth Centre, sacred flower waste is transformed into eco-friendly products, preventing it from entering rivers and drains. The facility, with a daily capacity of 400-500 kg, collects post-worship flowers from temples (including the Lingaraj Temple), households, etc. The flowers are then dried, powdered, and crafted into incense sticks (Agarbatti) and natural Gulal. Any leftover material is composted into organic manure, ensuring zero waste. Operated by a local Self-Help Group, the facility provides marginalised women with meaningful livelihoods and steady incomes, while fostering technical and entrepreneurial skills.

9.6.8 Access to clean energy is crucial. Clean cooking fuel reduces household air pollution, a major cause of respiratory illnesses and premature deaths, especially among women and children. It also eases the burden of fuel collection and frees time for productive activities.

9.6.9 In Odisha, access to clean cooking fuels has grown owing to the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (Ujjwala) and Ujjwala 2.0, with LPG now available in 80.3 per cent of households . As of 1st July 2025, Odisha has 100.7 lakh active domestic LPG connections, including around 55.5 lakh connections under PMUY scheme . However, rural coverage lags urban areas, highlighting the need for strategies to improve availability, affordability, and awareness while building on existing progress.

9.7.1 Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), Odisha prioritises social inclusion and empowerment of vulnerable communities. Targeted initiatives for Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), minorities, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups aim to improve education, health, livelihoods, housing, and social security.

Empowerment of ST and SC Population

9.7.2 As per 2011 census, Odisha ranks third in ST population and eleventh in SC population. These populations together make up nearly 40 per cent of the State’s population, with STs comprising 22.85 per cent and SCs 17.13 per cent. The State is home to 64 distinct ST and 89 SC communities. Notably, the State also has 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), the highest number in the country. Odisha has introduced various measures to address historical social disadvantages and promote equality of opportunity among ST and SC population.

Education and Skilling

9.7.3 Between 2023-24 and 2024-25, trends in GER reveal a consistent pattern. Enrolment at the foundational stage remains critically low for both groups, with GER at around 35 per cent, mirroring overall enrolment at this level (Figure 9.20, Figure 9.21). Participation improves substantially at the preparatory and middle stages, where GERs approach or exceed 100 per cent, indicating near-universal access. At the secondary level, GERs drop markedly, pointing to persistent hurdles in retention and transition. However, the upward trend in the past year, particularly among ST students, signals gradual progress in sustaining participation beyond elementary education (Figure 9.21).

¹Answers to Rajya Sabha questions by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, accessed on 26th Dec 2025. https://www.pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1694710&reg=3&lang=2

²LPG Profile report, FY 2025-26 (Apr-Jun), Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, GoI

Figure 9.20: Gross enrolment ratio (GER), Scheduled Tribe (ST), in per cent

Educational Stage	2023-24	2024-25
Foundational (Pre-Primary to Class II)	34.6	34
Preparatory (Class III to Class V)	92.8	93.9
Middle (Class VI to Class VIII)	107.5	110.3
Secondary (Class IX to XII)	71.6	78.2

Source: Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) 2023-24 and 2024-25, Ministry of Education, Government of India.

Figure 9.21: Gross enrolment ratio (GER), Scheduled Caste (SC), in per cent

Educational Stage	2023-24	2024-25
Foundational (Pre-Primary to Class II)	35.4	34.9
Preparatory (Class III to Class V)	104.3	101.5
Middle (Class VI to Class VIII)	100.2	99
Secondary (Class IX to XII)	71	73.4

Source: Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) 2023-24 and 2024-25, Ministry of Education, Government of India.

9.7.4 In 2024-25, more than 2 lakh students enrolled in higher education, including over 70,000 students from ST and SC population, who together constituted 34.3 per cent of total enrolment. Notably, female enrolment surpasses male enrolment, indicating the rising participation of women from ST and SC population in higher education.

9.7.5 To support educational continuity and completion, Odisha has established residential schooling facilities for students from ST and SC population. The ST and SC Development Department manages 1,763 educational institutions, including 1,612 residential schools. Presently, around 5,967 hostels operate in the State, providing accommodation to around 5.46 lakh students, of whom around 3.12 lakh are girls (57 per cent).

9.7.6 Scholarships are also extended through a range of schemes, benefiting nearly 19 lakh students each year. Under the pre-matric scholarship program, students residing in hostels from classes I to X receive assistance specifically towards mess expenses. In parallel, day scholars from classes VI to X are supported through scholarships aimed at meeting basic educational costs. To maintain adequacy over time, scholarship rates are periodically revised to account for

inflation. In this context, recent enhancements provide ₹17,000 per annum for female boarders and ₹16,000 per annum for male boarders.

9.7.7 In addition to regular scholarships, the Mukhyamantri Medhabi Chatra Protshana Yojana provides additional cash incentives to eligible girl students in classes IX and X, to promote completion of secondary education. Further, in 2025, the State has implemented the Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana to reduce dropout rates among ST students by offering a one-time cash incentive of ₹5,000 to students enrolling in Classes IX and XI. In 2024-25, around 1.62 lakh ST students benefited from this initiative.

9.7.8 At the post-matric level, scholarships support students pursuing ITI, postgraduate, and professional/technical courses such as MBA, MBBS, MCA, Law, and M.Tech. These scholarships cover admission, tuition, and non-refundable compulsory fees, thereby reducing the cost of higher education. Students also receive a maintenance allowance to meet day-to-day educational expenses.

Figure 9.22: Scholarships and facilities for SC and ST students

01 Residential Facilities	02 Scholarships	03 Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana	04 ANWESHA	05 PRAYAS
5,967 operational hostels 5.46 lakh ST and SC students including 3.12 lakh girls (57 per cent)	Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarships for around 19 lakh ST and SC students annually.	Onetime cash incentive of ₹ 5000 to students enrolling in Class IX and Class XI Around 1.62 lakh ST students benefited in 2024-25	During 2021-2025, ₹ 569 crores allocated to benefit 25,000 SC/ST students Collaboration with private, aided schools across 17 districts	Placement linked training to unemployed SC youth aged 18 to 40 5,635 SC students covered under Skill Development Training Scheme 2,802 candidates were trained during 2023-24 to 2024-25

Source: Department of ST and SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, Government of Odisha

9.7.9 The State has partnered with private schools in urban centers and district headquarters across 17 districts to deliver quality education to ST and SC children. The initiative was launched for a five-year period (2015-16 to 2019-20) to benefit 23,000 students by facilitating access to English-medium education and modern learning standards for underprivileged children. The program has since been extended up to 2025 with an estimated budget of ₹569 crore, covering 25,000 students. Currently, around 22,340 students are enrolled in 170 public schools under this scheme.

9.7.10 Placement linked employability training is provided under PRAYAS to unemployed SC youth in the age group of 18 to 40 years in Odisha. The objective of this initiative is to enhance livelihood opportunities for the population by enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial skills. A total of 5,635 SC students has been covered under Skill Development Training Scheme.

Of these, 3,239 trainees underwent short-term training, and 418 trainees completed long-term training. Additionally, 139 individuals have been trained at the World Skills Centre. During the years 2023-24 and 2024-25, a total of 2,802 candidates were trained.

Economic Participation and improvement

9.7.11 According to the 2024 PLFS data, ST and SC population constitute 46 per cent of Odisha’s workforce. Notably, during this period, the share of SC and ST population employed in the industrial sector increased from 28.3 per cent to 31.7 per cent, signalling a gradual but positive shift towards industrial employment. Meanwhile, the agriculture and services sectors recorded modest adjustments in their respective shares over the period. The agriculture sector’s share eased from 55.2 per cent in 2022 to 53.1 per cent in 2024, while the services sector declined from 16.4 per cent to 15.1 per cent.

Table 9.4: Sectoral Distribution of SC and ST Workforce, in per cent

Year	Agriculture	Industry	Services
2022	55.2	28.3	16.4
2024	53.1	31.7	15.1

Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey 2022-23 and 2023-24, MoSPI, Government of India

9.7.12 There has also been a notable improvement in the quality of employment among ST and SC workers. The proportion engaged as regular salaried employees increased from 8 per cent in 2022 to 10 per cent in 2024, pointing to enhanced access to more stable and formal employment opportunities. Concurrently, the share of self-employed individuals decreased from 60.3 per cent to 58.7 per cent, while casual labour remained at around 31 per cent.

Table 9.5: Distribution of SC and ST Workforce by Type of Employment, in per cent

Year	Self-Employed	Regular Salaried	Casual Labour
2022	60.3	8.0	31.7
2024	58.7	10.0	31.3

Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey 2022-23 and 2023-24, MoSPI, Government of India

9.7.13 Odisha has implemented interventions to enhance economic participation and empowerment of SC and ST population. Under the Mukhyamantri Janajati Jeebika Mission, the State aims to improve the income and living standards of over 1.5 lakh tribal households through diversified livelihoods opportunities using a cluster-based approach. The mission has a total outlay of ₹500 crore over three years, including an allocation of ₹210 crores for 2025-26.

Table 9.6: Initiatives Promoting Economic Participation and Empowerment among ST And SC Population

Initiative	Objective	Details
OSFDC’s Income Generating Scheme	Provide sustainable livelihoods for SC women Self Help Groups through bank-financed projects.	50% financial assistance up to ₹50,000 per beneficiary Supports activities in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fishery, industry, services, and business sectors.
Odisha Tribal Empowerment and Livelihoods Programme Plus (OTELP Plus)	Improve livelihoods and food security of poor tribal households through sustainable resource management along with off-farm and non-farm enterprise development	Operated via government-NGO partnership in 18 backward blocks across five districts covering 699 villages and 310 Minor Water Structures in 2024-25
Odisha PVTG Empowerment and Livelihoods Improvement Programme (OPELIP)	Enhance livelihoods and reduce poverty among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)	6741 ( SHGs), 735 Cluster Level Federations(CLFs) & 89 Gram Panchayat Level Federations(GPLFs) formed and capacitated Spent 669 crore in FY 2024-25
Mission Jeevika / Mukhya Mantri Jana Jati Jeevika Mission (MMJJM)	Enhance tribal livelihoods by promoting both land-based and non-land-based economic activities to foster self-reliance	Janajati Jeevika Parishads (JJP) are formed at cluster level, with 50% women’s representation Mukhya Mantri Jana Jati Jeevika Mission (MMJJM) sanctioned with ₹ 500 crore to scale and sustain tribal livelihood programs, for 2023-26.

Source: Department of ST and SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, Government of Odisha

9.7.14 The Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY) aims to transform tribal villages into model villages through holistic development. The scheme focuses on providing essential infrastructure and services, including education, healthcare, sanitation, drinking water, and sustainable livelihoods. A key objective is to uplift tribal communities while preserving their cultural heritage. Needs are assessed through a comprehensive Need Assessment exercise, based on which Village Development Plans (VDPs) are formulated. Each VDP receives a grant of about ₹20.38 lakhs, inclusive of 2 per cent for administrative costs. In Odisha, 1,653 villages have been approved under PMAAGY. Between 2021-22 and 2023-24, 784 VDPs were approved, with 387 VDPs submitted for approval in 2024-25.

Habitat Rights granted to nine (09) Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) – Juang in Keonjhar and Jajpur districts, Chuktia Bhunjia in Nuapada, Saura in Gajapati, Mankidia and Hill Kharia in Mayurbhanj, Bonda in Malkangiri, Kutia Kandh in Kandhamal and Paudi Bhuyan in Deogarh district.

9.7.15 Complementing these efforts, the Odisha PVTG Nutritional Improvement Programme (OPNIP), launched under OPELIP, aims to improve health and nutrition among 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Odisha, focusing on the critical first 1,000 days of life. The program is implemented across 89 Gram Panchayats through 17 Micro Project Agencies in 12 districts. It includes three key interventions: community-based creches for children aged 6 months to 3 years (Matru Sishu Poshan Kendra cum Creches), maternal spot feeding centres for pregnant and lactating women, and spot feeding centres for children aged 3 to 6 years. The coverage includes 61 creches serving 841 beneficiaries, 161 maternal feeding centres with 991 beneficiaries, and 111 spot feeding centres reaching 615 beneficiaries. In 2024-25, an expenditure of ₹96.6 lakh was incurred, benefiting a total of 2,524 families.

From Isolation to Prosperity: The Economic Transformation of Telgudu Village

The PM JANMAN initiative has brought major change to Telgudu, a small village in Rayagada district. For years, the village’s 104 residents lived with poor connectivity, often remaining cut off during the monsoon. This isolation caused crop losses and limited their ability to reach markets and earn better incomes.

The completion of a 2.5 kilometer all weather road in May 2025 marked a turning point. The new road has improved daily life and opened new economic opportunities. Farmers now reach major mandis in Puttasing and Gunupur with ease, earning about 30 per cent more by selling produce at fair prices and avoiding losses from spoilage. The road has also supported women’s self help groups, who now travel to district centers for training and sell handicrafts in larger markets.

The experience of Telgudu shows how last mile road connectivity can reduce poverty and link remote villages to the wider economy. By addressing long standing challenges in hilly terrain, the PM JANMAN initiative has helped integrate Telgudu into mainstream economic activity and set a strong base for future growth.

Welfare of Elderly Population

9.7.16 India is experiencing rapid growth in both the number and proportion of elderly population, defined as individuals aged 65 and above. A recent NITI Aayog report highlights that a declining fertility rate (below 2.0) and an increasing life expectancy (over 70 years) are driving this shift. Odisha’s demographic transition is more advanced than the national average, with fertility rate already below replacement level (about 1.7) and life expectancy exceeding 70 years. The State’s elderly population is projected to nearly double from 6.1 per cent in 2011 to 11.9 per cent by 2036. This transition underscores an urgent need for targeted measures to ensure the well-being of State’s growing aging population.

9.7.17 In response, Odisha has implemented two key schemes to support pensioners. The Madhu Babu Pension Yojana (MBPY), a State-funded scheme, covers about 36.75 lakh beneficiaries from various vulnerable groups. In addition, the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), administered jointly by the central and state governments, supports over 20 lakh beneficiaries under old-age, widow, and disability pensions. Currently, monthly pensions range from ₹1,000 to ₹1,200. In a further effort to enhance support, from January 2025, pensions for beneficiaries aged 80 and above or those with over 80 per cent disability have been revised to ₹3,500 per month.

9.7.18 Odisha is also strengthening caregiving and support services for older adults. Accordingly, the State has launched a three-month geriatric caregiver training program for youth, widows, and single women, aiming to train 400 caregivers annually. The curriculum covers physical and mental elder care, including wound management, counselling, and physiotherapy, currently operating in East and North zones and expanding further. Additionally, the National Helpline for Senior Citizens (Elder line 14567) offers 12-hour daily support in Odisha, providing free information, legal aid, emotional support, and intervention in abuse cases. Additional key interventions supporting various vulnerable populations are highlighted in Figure 9.23.

Figure 9.23: Key interventions for vulnerable population segments

Vulnerable Group	Initiative	Details
Drug Addicts	DISHA	Provides Skill upgradation, self-employment support, outreach & awareness (de-addiction, moral education, yoga, youth activities, substance abuse prevention) 11 Drug Recovery Centers have been established
Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)	Rehabilitation/Therapeutic Services	State Institute of Disability Rehabilitation (SIDR) and 16 District Disability Rehabilitation Centres (DDRCs) Advance Rehabilitation Centers in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Bhawanipatna, and Kalahandi districts.
	Support and Livelihood Initiatives	201 BBSA camps in 2024-25: 1.04 lakh PwDs registered; 85,000 assisted. Aids & Appliances: 5,020 distributed to beneficiaries. 500 e-Rickshaws provided to PwDs across 30 districts
Transgender Persons	Swekruti Scheme	to create an enabling environment ensuring equal opportunity, social justice, empowerment, prevention of begging, and providing better livelihood options.
	State Transgender Welfare Board	Constituted to protect the best interests of the transgender community in accordance with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. 2,594 ID cards issued across the state

Source: Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department, Government of Odisha

9.8.1 Odisha is bestowed with rich and diverse heritage that spans thousands of years, including a 3,000-year-old Buddhist legacy, more than 1,000 temples, over 20 distinct dance forms, tribal paintings, sculptures, folk music, handicrafts, and handloom products. These cultural assets play a role in shaping Odisha’s identity, fostering social cohesion, and contributing to its economic development.

9.8.2 Central to Odisha’s cultural pride is the Jagannath culture, rooted in the ancient city of Puri, home to the Lord Jagannath Temple. This tradition is characterised by devotion, inclusivity, and unity, exemplified by the annual Rath Yatra festival, which attracts thousands of devotees from around the world. The Jagannath culture has a profound influence on the State’s art, music, dance, and cuisine, while also promoting social integration and spiritual engagement.

9.8.3 The State has undertaken several initiatives to preserve its cultural heritage and ensure that Odisha’s cultural legacy endures for future generations:

Language Promotion and Cultural Identity

Formation of the Odia Asmita Corpus Fund with an allocation of ₹200 crore, dedicated to strengthening Odia cultural identity, heritage projects, and language promotion initiatives.
Continued development and expansion of digital Odia dictionaries, comprehensive word banks, and language tools to promote the use of Odia across administrative offices and educational institutions statewide.
All official work, including correspondences and notifications, from Block level to State level, is carried out in Odia language.
Strategic plans in pipeline for the establishment of Odia Chairs in prominent national and international universities to encourage academic research and global awareness of the Odia language and literature.
Approval granted for establishing the Odia Translation Academy and the Palm Leaf Manuscript Museum, aimed at preserving, translating, and showcasing important literary manuscripts and historical documents.
Odisha Sahitya Akademi published nine major literary works, enriching the corpus of Odia literature and academic resources available to researchers and the public.
Odisha Paribar, a policy for the Global Odia Diaspora is in process. Further, a dedicated portal, and a 24x7 Call Center are underway to support the Non-Resident Odia community.

Institutional Development and Infrastructure Upgradation

Cadre norms for the Directorate of Museums have been approved, enabling better administration and management of museum staff and preservation practices.
Construction of Odia Asmita Bhavan approved. It is a dedicated cultural complex designed to serve as a central hub for Odia arts, cultural activities, exhibitions, and events.
CTMS 2.0 Modernisation: The Cultural Team Management System website is undergoing modernisation with AI integration to streamline management processes and enhance service quality.
Dedicated websites for Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi, Odisha Sahitya Akademi, and Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi were unveiled to enhance accessibility and outreach.
“Mandap Booking Website” was launched to facilitate online reservations of Bhanjakala Mandap, Rabindra Mandap, and Utkal Mandap, streamlining event management and user experience.
Odisha State Museum inaugurated nine new galleries equipped with advanced audiovisual technologies to improve visitor interaction and educational experiences.
Odisha State Archives strengthened preservation systems and expanded digital access to historical records, facilitating easier research and safeguarding cultural documents.
Harekrushna Mahatab State Library expanded its reading infrastructure and outreach programs.
Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya inaugurated a modern Audio and Chroma Recording Studio to support music training, composition, and preservation of traditional and contemporary performing arts.
Utkal University of Culture strengthened cultural and academic collaborations by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions in Assam, such as Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra Society, for joint research, cultural exchange, and training in visual and performing arts.
Approval for establishing a branch of the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) in Bhubaneswar.

Festival Support, Arts Promotion, and Cultural Events

Increased financial assistance for major cultural festivals, with allocations including ₹ 7 crore for Durga Puja Mandaps, ₹ 2 crore for Bali Yatra, ₹ 1.58 crore for Shital Sasthi, ₹ 1 crore for Dhanu Yatra, and ₹ 50 lakh for Lanka Podi, promoting regional participation and enhanced tourism promotion.
Launch of the Kalakar Gaurav Nidhi scheme dedicated to the preservation of endangered performing arts.
Monthly honorarium of ₹ 30,000 introduced from January 2025 for all living Padma awardees from Odisha as recognition of their distinguished contributions to arts, culture, and society.
Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi organised prominent cultural festivals such as Bharatiyam and Sri Jagannathayan, which celebrate patriotic music and foster cultural pride among citizens.
Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra Odissi Research Centre actively engaged in research, documentation, and training programs in Odissi dance and music, regularly hosting workshops and performances by eminent artists and students.

Figure 9.24: Major programmes and activities for Promotion of Cultural Heritage in 2025-26

Odisha participated as a Partner State for the first time at the International Geeta Mahotsav in Kurukshetra, Haryana, showcasing the State’s art, handloom, tourism, and food traditions.

Bali Yatra officially listed by the Sangeet Natak Akademi; formal proposal submitted to the Ministry of Culture for inclusion in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Under the Har Ghar Tiranga programme national flags were produced by women’s self-help groups across districts, with a total expenditure of INR 15.5 crore.

Odisha State Film Awards for 2020, 2021, and 2022 conferred.

Odia Pakhya, 2025: First statewide Odia Fortnight recorded over 3 lakh online quiz participants and 5 lakh selfie uploads.

6th Odisha State Book Festival featured special pavilions promoting Odia literature, history, and cultural heritage with strong public engagement.

Approval granted for installation of 20 bronze statues of prominent Baraputras across Odisha.

Baraputra Aitihya Grama Yojana launched to develop native villages of eminent personalities into heritage villages with museums and cultural infrastructure.

Tripartite MoU signed between Department of Culture, Department of Tourism, and Light of Buddha Foundation International to promote Buddhist tourism.

Source: Odia Language Literature & Culture Department, Government of Odisha

9.9 CONCLUSION

9.9.1 The cognition that economic growth must be complemented by social development is ingrained in Odisha’s policies and interventions, and the State has been able to make progress across various dimensions of social development.

9.9.2 From the expansion of household durable asset ownership to the saturation of basic necessities, there has been an improvement in economic well-being across the State. Simultaneously, the State has been able to address and improve the quality of services that contribute to human capital development. The State’s sustained investment in healthcare, including initiatives such as the integrated Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana (GJAY), Ama Hospital Scheme and NIRMAL Scheme reflects a deep commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens. The results are showing particularly in falling child mortality rates. Simultaneously, Odisha’s focus on women’s empowerment through transformative programs such as Mission Shakti, SUBHADRA, and Lakhpati Didi has yielded tangible results, with the female labor force participation rate rising sharply from 37.6 per cent to 48.7 per cent between 2022 and 2024, signaling a meaningful shift toward gender equity and economic independence.

9.9.3 Flagship programs like the Jal Jeevan Mission, Basudha, AMRUT, SUJAL, and Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin are working to bridge the rural-urban divide by ensuring that every household has access to clean water, sanitation, and pucca housing. For vulnerable communities, particularly Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes, targeted schemes such as Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana and PRAYAS are playing a pivotal role in fostering empowerment and reducing long-standing disparities

9.9.4 Moving forward, impending shifts in demographic composition and technological innovations could impact and reshape the socio-economic fabric of our society. It is important to ensure that individuals and communities are equipped to navigate these changes, and benefits from emerging transformations. Beyond ensuring access to education and skilling, as well as healthcare services, it is equally important to build a safety net. It will help empower and uplift those who risk falling through the cracks, reinforcing the commitment to leave no one behind.