In a transformative move towards uplifting the underprivileged, Odisha’s Chief Minister, Shri Naveen Patnaik, distributed land rights certificates to 65,000 economically disadvantaged families residing in slums across five major cities—Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela.
Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik proudly proclaimed, “Odisha is the only state in the country to give land rights to slum dwellers,” reaffirming the state’s commitment to ensuring dignified living conditions for all.
Highlighting the significance of this endeavor, he announced, “Financial assistance will also be provided for the construction of houses. The second phase of the certificate will be issued next October.” With unwavering determination, the Chief Minister emphasized that this initiative will persist until every urban poor family secures land rights.
Initiated in 2018, the Jaga Mission program aims to grant land rights to economically challenged families residing in urban slums. Thus far, over 2.4 lakh families have been empowered with land rights, and 40,000 families have received support for constructing homes. This holistic approach to urban development envisions turning slums into vibrant Biju model colonies equipped with essential amenities.
To realize the vision of a slum-free Odisha, these settlements are undergoing comprehensive transformation. So far, 1,010 settlements across 68 urban areas have successfully transitioned into Biju Model Colonies.
The Chief Minister eloquently expressed, “The city is not solely for the affluent. The labor of the poor contributes to each brick that shapes the city. We must honor their invaluable contributions. The Jaga Mission has bestowed respect upon the underprivileged, granting them a renewed sense of identity.”
Naveen Patnaik emphasized that the Jaga Mission has garnered global attention, highlighting that the underprivileged hold the primary right to the city. This transformational mission has heralded a new era in urban development, aligned with the principles of the 5T initiative—Technology, Transparency, Teamwork, Transformation, and Time.
Stressing the collaborative spirit, he affirmed, “We are progressing together. Our aim is to forge a new Odisha, a robust Odisha, a transformed Odisha. Today’s program marks a significant milestone in this journey.”
In a symbolic gesture, the Chief Minister inaugurated 1,010 colonies, now transformed into Biju Model Colonies, acknowledging the remarkable progress. He also recognized the exceptional efforts of cities like Cuttack, Khordha, Koraput, and Jajpur in the creation of Biju Adamas Colony.
Addressing the complexities of the process, he explained that when legal constraints prevent resettlement within the existing slum areas, new colonies are established nearby with unanimous consent.
Notably, Dhenkanal district holds the distinction of being the first in the nation to grant land rights to slum dwellers under the Forest Rights Act, showcasing Odisha’s pioneering approach towards inclusive development.
Prasanta Patnaik