Bhubaneswar, March 12: The Odisha government reviewed the progress of Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) projects during a High Power Committee (HPC) meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan on Thursday.

Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh chaired the session, urging departments to expedite ongoing projects and submit reimbursement claims on time for seamless fund flow.

The state government, noting its strong performance in implementing RIDF projects, requested NABARD to approve additional projects for the current financial year. Departments were also encouraged to explore alternative funding options under NABARD’s low-cost financial instruments.

The Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Department was asked to submit proposals for the Micro Irrigation Fund, while the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department was directed to propose projects under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund. Additionally, the MSME, Agriculture & FE, and F&ARD Departments were urged to submit funding proposals for the Food Processing Fund.

Officials emphasized the importance of timely project implementation and diversification of funding sources to boost rural infrastructure development across the state.