Odisha forms special development councils for nine tribal districts

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government yesterday formed special development councils (SDCs) for nine tribal-dominated districts of the state– Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Kandhamal, Koraput, Gajapati, Rayagada, Nabarangpur and Malkangiri.

The SDCs will have an annual grant of Rs 1.50 crore per block in the nine districts and a total of 175.50 crore to be spent.

Launching the councils at a special function here, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said these councils will create a new chapter in the preservation and promotion of tribal culture and tradition, heritage and unique identity of the tribal communities.

The SDCs will work towards benefitting 14 lakh tribal families with focus on cultural, educational, sports and economic development activities, he said.

The CM also reiterated the State Government’s commitment towards all-round development and welfare of tribals in the state.