Amid jurisdiction dispute with Andhra, Odisha CM launches basket of projects for Kotia

Bhubaneswar: Amid inter-State dispute over jurisdiction of many bordering villages in Kotia Gram Panchayat in Koraput district, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today inaugurated a basket of developmental projects worth Rs 18 crore in the region.

The foundation stone of various projects including construction of a bridge at cost of Rs 5 crore in Kotia was laid by the CM through a video conferencing programme here today.

Speaking on the occasion, he said, “Kotia will be transformed into an ideal Gram Panchayat.”

He said that the State Government has developed all the facilities like education, healthcare, communication, drinking water, electricity and so on in Kotia panchayat. Besides, social security and food security are being provided and initiatives have been taken for livelihoods.

“I am working for development of all the regions from Malkangiri to Mayurbhanj and from Koraput to Cuttack. We are working to bring the benefits of development to every family in every corner of the State,” Patnaik said promising people of Kotia to visit the place soon.

The move came after Andhra Pradesh Government announced panchayat elections in bordering villages of Kotia scheduled on February 13 and 17.

In view of controversy, Odisha Government on Friday transferred Koraput Collector Madhusudan Mishra ahead of the polls.

Earlier, CM Patnaik had announced projects worth Rs 150 crore in 2018 for development of Kotia panchayat.

Worth mentioning that both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have been claiming jurisdiction over 21 villages out of 28 in Kotia panchayat since 1960 by extending various benefits to over 5,000 residents in the region. Several media reports claimed that the government in the neighbouring State has been attempting to win villagers over to its side by alluring them of basic services under various welfare schemes.

 

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