Ama Pokhari: Odisha Govt Gives Work Orders to 364 Mission Shakti SHGs for Rejuvenation of 95 Waterbodies in 16 ULBs

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government on Monday gave work orders to 364 Mission Shakti SHGs for ecological rejuvenation of 95 waterbodies across 16 ULBs under the “Ama Pokhari” initiative.

A state level event on “Ama Pokhari” initiative under the transformative 5T governance framework of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was held today at Bhubaneswar.

Agreement was signed and work orders were distributed to 364 Mission Shakti SHGs under MUKTA programme for ecological rejuvenation of 95 waterbodies across 16 ULBs of the state.

Usha Devi, Minister Housing & Urban Development, graced the programme as Chief Guest.

Speaking on the occasion, she told that we take a significant step forward today with our “Ama Pokhari” initiative under the 5T governance framework. This program, championed by our Visionary Chief Minister, is not only about reviving our water bodies it is a remarkable journey of empowerment, sustainability, and community spirit; a true reflection of our 5T’s transformative approach.

Mission Shakti women are the heart of this initiative. You will become their guardians, educate your communities, spread the word about saving our waterbodies. The ‘Ama Pokhari’ Initiative is about giving you the power to earn, lead, and shape your future. It’s about showing everyone that women are change makers, She added. She called upon the Mission Shakti sisters for hard work and incredible spirit, let us together build “Ama Pokhari” into a success story that inspires the world.

Additional Chief Secretary Housing & Urban Development Department G. Mathivathanan has highlighted the progress of the initiative since its launch by the Chief Minister in July 2023 and how Ama Pokhari as a transformative initiative works to address women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability and urban infrastructure development.

The program leverages the power of community partnership by engaging Mission Shakti SHGs in vital conservation and restoration work and is a testament to the government’s commitment to urban renewal and community engagement.

The programme was graced by the dignitaries including Minister for Social Security & Empowerment of persons with Disabilities , Science & Technology Dept Ashok Chandra Panda, MLA Central Ananta Narayan Jena , Mayor, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, Sulochana Das, who also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of Ama Pokhari in improving urban living standards and creating a new paradigm in community participation underscoring the government’s focus on its citizens and transparent governance.

At the outset Special Secretary Sagarika Pattanaik gave welcome address and Rajesh Pravakar Patil Special Secretary H&UD and Commissioner BMC proposed a hearty vote of thanks.