PMGSY-IV Launch in Odisha Signals Push for Rural Connectivity and Inclusive Growth

Highlighting the importance of connectivity, Shri Chouhan stated that roads are not merely transport links but lifelines that enable access to education, healthcare, markets, and employment opportunities.

In a major boost to rural infrastructure and grassroots development, the launch of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana Phase IV (PMGSY-IV) in Odisha has marked a transformative milestone in connecting remote regions and accelerating inclusive growth across the state.

The high-impact event, held in Rayagada district, saw Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, alongside Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, unveiling a wide array of development initiatives spanning roads, housing, irrigation, livelihoods, and women empowerment.

₹1,698 Crore Investment to Transform Rural Connectivity

At the heart of the announcement is a massive infrastructure push under PMGSY-IV:

• 827 new rural roads approved

• Covering 1,701.84 kilometres

• With a total investment of ₹1,698.04 crore

These projects aim to connect remote, hilly, and previously unserved habitations, ensuring that rural communities are integrated into the mainstream economy.

Highlighting the importance of connectivity, Shri Chouhan stated that roads are not merely transport links but lifelines that enable access to education, healthcare, markets, and employment opportunities.

Bridging Gaps: Completing Pending Infrastructure

In addition to new projects, the government has committed supplementary financial support to complete previously sanctioned but unfinished road works—ensuring that no region is left behind in the development process.

Housing for All: ₹630 Crore Push Under PMAY-G

Reaffirming the government's commitment to housing security, the Union Minister announced:

• ₹630.61 crore sanctioned for completing pending houses under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana–Gramin (PMAY-G)

He emphasized that no poor family in Odisha will remain in a kutcha house, with a mission to ensure dignified living conditions for all eligible beneficiaries.

Boost to Rural Employment and Water Conservation

On the occasion of Labour Day, Shri Chouhan also announced:

• ₹868.71 crore released as the first instalment under MGNREGA for FY 2026–27

• ₹30.07 crore approved under WDC-PMKSY 2.0, supporting watershed development and irrigation

These initiatives are expected to generate employment, enhance water security, and strengthen rural resilience.

Women, Farmers, and Youth at the Core of Development

The announcements placed strong emphasis on inclusive and livelihood-driven growth, with targeted initiatives for:

• Women empowerment through Self-Help Groups and the Lakhpati Didi campaign

• Farmer prosperity via scientific farming, improved seeds, and storage infrastructure

• Youth employment through skill development and self-employment programmes

The Minister highlighted integrated approaches such as:

• Animal husbandry, fisheries, and beekeeping

• Plantation-based income generation

• Expansion of warehouse and cold storage facilities under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund

'Double-Engine' Push for Odisha's Transformation

Praising the synergy between the Centre and State, Shri Chouhan credited the "double-engine government" for accelerating development in Odisha. He described Rayagada as a region of immense potential, rich in culture and natural resources, now poised for rapid transformation.

Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi echoed this sentiment, stating that the scale of initiatives reflects the Centre's special commitment to Odisha's growth.

PMGSY-IV: A Game Changer for Remote Regions

Calling PMGSY-IV a transformative initiative, the Chief Minister noted that it will play a crucial role in connecting:

• Difficult and hilly terrains

• Remote tribal areas

• Previously unconnected habitations

He reaffirmed the state's vision of "Samruddha Odisha, Viksit Odisha", focusing on:

• Infrastructure expansion

• Drinking water access

• Electricity and rural services

• Farmer income enhancement

• Women empowerment and youth employment

Direct Benefits Reach the Ground

The event also witnessed:

• Distribution of benefits to scheme beneficiaries

• Foundation stone laying for multiple projects

• Inauguration of key development initiatives

The programme saw participation from senior leaders, public representatives, and a large number of local residents, reflecting strong grassroots engagement.

A Holistic Model of Rural Development

The PMGSY-IV launch in Odisha represents more than just a road-building initiative—it is a comprehensive rural transformation model, integrating:

• Infrastructure development

• Livelihood generation

• Social welfare schemes

• Economic empowerment

As India continues its journey toward Viksit Bharat, such initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in bridging urban-rural divides and ensuring that development reaches the last mile.