Bhubaneswar: Ten IAS Officer Trainees of the 2024 batch, recently allotted to the Odisha cadre, on 9 May visited the Department of Housing & Urban Development as part of their ongoing orientation programme. The visit provided the young administrators with valuable first-hand experience of the department’s pivotal role in driving urban development across the state.
The trainee officers received a warm welcome from Principal Secretary Usha Padhee, along with Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, Special Secretary Debasis Singh, and other senior officials of the department. They participated in an engaging session designed to offer insights into the department’s operations and key initiatives.
Addressing the visiting trainees, Principal Secretary Usha Padhee highlighted the dynamic nature of Odisha’s urban landscape. “The urban sector in Odisha is undergoing a rapid transformation driven by innovation, inclusivity, and citizen-centric governance,” she stated. “This is an exciting time to be part of public service, and I hope today’s interaction inspires you to think creatively and work collaboratively for urban development.”
During the session, the department showcased significant aspects of its flagship programmes aimed at achieving a Viksit Odisha@2036, alongside the increasing integration of digital platforms to enhance the efficiency of service delivery for citizens.
Smt. Padhee underscored the crucial role that young officers will play in formulating future urban policies that are both sustainable and tailored to meet the specific needs of local communities. The trainees also had the opportunity to engage directly with officers heading various divisions within the department. This interaction provided practical insights into diverse aspects such as policy implementation, the importance of community participation in development projects, and strategies for sustainable urban management.
The visit culminated in an open discussion, where the IAS trainee officers conveyed their appreciation for the department’s progressive and people-focused approach to urban governance. The exposure is expected to provide a strong foundation for their future roles in the State Administration.