New Delhi, Dec 12: Odisha has made a significant impact at the National Panchayat Awards 2022-23, winning seven prestigious awards. The awards were presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.
The awards recognize the outstanding achievements of Panchayati Raj Institutions across Odisha. Keluapalli Gram Panchayat in Rangeilunda block and Sahapur Gram Panchayat in Hinjili block, Ganjam district, were among the top winners. Keluapalli received the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar for being a Healthy Gram Panchayat, while Sahapur was praised for its impressive self-sufficiency.
Sundargarh district also received recognition, with Kendrikela Panchayat in Bonaigarh block winning the second prize in the Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar category. Kasira Panchayat in Koida block was honored under the Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar category for its commitment to sustainable energy.
The State Institute for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (SIRD & PR) earned second place nationally in the Panchayat Kshamta Nirmaan Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar category. Chatrapur block in Ganjam district was recognized with the Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar as the Best Block Panchayat.
Koraput district was named the second-best Zilla Parishad in India. Overall, Odisha received Rs 8.5 crore across these awards, highlighting its dedication to sustainable development and inclusive growth.
President Droupadi Murmu praised the awardees for their contributions to improving women’s income opportunities, health, and promoting sustainable practices like water conservation and green energy.
