Transformative Urban Growth: Odisha’s ANKUR Initiative Takes Center Stage

Bhubaneswar,: In a significant stride toward creating sustainable and future-ready cities, the Principal Secretary of Housing & Urban Development (H&UD), Smt. Usha Padhee chaired a high-level meeting on
the Atal Network for Knowledge, Urbanisation & Reforms (ANKUR). This transformative initiative aims to foster urban innovation, collaboration, and good governance in Odisha.The meeting convened senior
officials, urban experts, and partner organizations to strategize on Odisha’s urban development, aligning with the broader vision of Viksit Odisha 2036 and Viksit Bharat 2047. Key discussions focused on accelerating urban growth, alleviating poverty, strengthening infrastructure resilience, and promoting inclusive governanceessential pillars for sustainable urbanization.Smt. Padhee underscored the importance of policy innovation and knowledgesharing, highlighting ANKUR’s role in bridging expertise, fostering partnerships, and implementing forward-thinking urban solutions. The initiative
seeks to enhance data-driven decision-making, smart governance, and community participation, ensuring cities are efficient, equitable, and climateresilient.ANKUR is set to be a catalyst for transformative urban reforms, with a clear roadmap for scaling best practices, strengthening institutions, and leveraging technology. The initiative will drive capacity-building, sustainable
infrastructure, and digital interventions, accelerating Odisha’s urban evolution. Reaffirming its commitment to innovation-led urban growth, Odisha is paving the way for cities that are engines of progress, inclusivity, and sustainability.