BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government’s Sahayog programme has helped connect thousands of economically weaker and marginalized urban households with a range of welfare schemes, officials said during a state-level workshop held in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
The Housing and Urban Development Department, in partnership with Tata Steel Foundation, organised a one-day workshop for frontline workers associated with the programme at the Odisha Urban Academy. An FAQ booklet designed to address common queries raised during the Sahayog survey process was also released on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Additional Chief Secretary of the Department, Usha Padhee, said the initiative goes beyond facilitating access to government benefits and plays a key role in improving the quality of life of vulnerable communities living in urban areas.
She lauded the efforts of Swachha Sathis, Self-Help Group members, and representatives of Slum Dwellers’ Associations, stating that their grassroots engagement has been instrumental in expanding the programme’s reach and effectiveness.
Participants from various urban local bodies across the state shared their experiences regarding the implementation of the programme and highlighted its impact on beneficiaries.
They also offered suggestions aimed at strengthening service delivery and improving outreach among underserved communities.
Officials said the workshop provided a platform for frontline workers to exchange ideas and discuss challenges faced while connecting eligible families with government schemes.
Speaking at the event, Tata Steel Foundation CEO Sourav Roy, Additional Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department Shatrughna Kar, and Sahayog Nodal Officer Sourindra Rautray outlined the programme’s objectives, achievements, and plans.
During the interaction, Padhee encouraged field-level workers to continue their community outreach efforts and urged departmental officials to take their feedback into account while shaping future interventions.
The workshop was attended by representatives from urban local bodies across Odisha, along with officials and staff associated with the Sahayog programme.
