IIPA meet focuses on western Orissa’s developmental needs

The Pioneer, 11th August, 2009

PNS Bhubaneswar

The Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), Orissa Regional Branch, in collaboration with the Western Orissa Development Council (WODC), organised a workshop on ‘Western Orissa Development.’ IIPA Branch chairman Sanjib Chandra Hota spelt out the objective of the workshop and the efforts of the WODC in bringing about a holistic development of the region.Presenting the theme of the workshop, Prof Bijoyini Mohanty analysed the three major concerns of development -- displacement, literacy and governance. The major challenges are posed by the geographical terrain and the east-west divide created due to lack of basic infrastructure facilities and exploitation of the region leading to imbalances. Orissa has an integrative culture and tradition, but its development has not been uniform, she observed. Former DG of Police AB Tripathy said western Orissa has received special attention for development as there have been a lot of deficiencies in spite of its geographical, ethnic and cultural homogeneity. Governance is the key to any development objective. A more people-centered approach is necessary for the region’s development. Dr Gopabandhu Behera suggested that literacy is one of the key parameters of developing a backward region. There has to be proper communication between people and policy planners and implementers. Teachers as well as students should learn the local dialect as well as a common communicative language. Academician and social activist Dr Durga Prasad Nayak analysed the problems of displacement in the region caused due to multi-purpose hydel projects and of late by mining and manufacturing industries.