SHGs To Rejuvenate 95 Waterbodies In 16 ULBs Of Odisha Under Ama Pokhari Project

Bhubaneswar: A state-level event on the ‘Ama Pokhari’ initiative under the transformative 5T governance framework of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was held in Bhubaneswar on Monday.

On this occasion, an agreement was signed and work orders were distributed to 364 Mission Shakti SHGs under the Mukhya Mantri Karma Tatpara Abhiyan (MUKTA) programme for the ecological rejuvenation of 95 waterbodies across 16 Urban Local Bodies (ULB) of the state, an official release said.

Gracing the event as chief guest, Housing & Urban Development Minister Usha Devi said, “We take a significant step forward today with our Ama Pokhari initiative under the 5T governance framework. This programme, championed by our Chief Minister, is not only about reviving our waterbodies it is a remarkable journey of empowerment, sustainability, and community spirit. It is a true reflection of our 5T’s transformative approach.”

Stating that Mission Shakti women are the heart of this initiative, she said they will educate communities, and spread the message about saving our waterbodies. The ‘Ama Pokhari’ initiative will give you the power to earn, lead, and shape your future. It is about showing everyone that women are changemakers, she added.

She called upon the Mission Shakti women for hard work and incredible spirit. Let us build together ‘Ama Pokhari’ into a success story that inspires the world.

Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department G. Mathivathanan 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 programme 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 Department Ashok Chandra Panda.