Naveen Inaugurates Special Development Councils In 14 More Districts

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated Special Development Councils (SDCs) in Odisha’s 14 districts on Sunday.

Speaking at a pubic meeting organised for the inaugural function at Adivasi Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar, the chief minister said the councils are meant for promotion of tribal art and culture in the targeted districts.

“Jagannath culture, which is the most important contribution of Odisha to the world, is closely associated with tribal lifestyle in the state. Respect for nature, practice of rich cultural heritage and universal brotherhood are the foundation of tribal culture. The tribals have made Odisha proud for their contribution and sacrifice in the country’s freedom struggle. I am proud of them,” he said.

In this context, the SDCs will play pivotal role by helping the tribals preserve their art and culture. “There are 62 tribal groups in Odisha and it would be the responsibility of the SDCs to ensure protection of their culture in each block of their respective districts,” he added.

The SDCs have been set up in Angul, Balangir, Balasore, Bargarh, Boudh, Deogarh, Dhenkanal, Ganjam, Jajpur, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Nayagarh and Sambalpur. These districts have been added to 9 districts where the SDCs are already functioning since 2018.

“Till now, around 60 lakh tribal population was covered by the SDCs. Now, more than 80 lakh more tribals will be brought under the SDCs in 172 blocks. The state government has allocated Rs 223 crore towards promotion of tribal art and culture in financial year 2023-24,” Naveen said.

The chief minister also released a coffee table book on the occasion. Among others, advisor to Special Development Council Pradip Majhi, chief secretary Pradip Jena and secretary (5T) to chief secretary VK Pandian were present.