Odisha News: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Nov 7: With an aim to address distress migration in Odisha, the Mohan Majhi government has instructed the collectors of 11 vulnerable districts to implement employment programmes under a convergence model, offering 200 to 300 workdays annually. Distress migration remains a significant issue in 30 blocks across districts like Bargarh, Balangir, Nuapada, Kalahandi, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, and Sonepur.
In a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, emphasis was placed on generating local employment by integrating various government schemes. These include the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) under the Panchayati Raj Department, afforestation efforts by the Forest Department, and livelihood programmes by the SC and ST Development Department.
Officials have been directed to compile a comprehensive database of migrant families and improve enforcement of anti-migration laws. Migrants in the identified blocks will receive labour-intensive work for three months through these schemes, with loan interest waivers also provided.
The Chief Secretary stressed the focus on creating sustainable livelihoods within Odisha. The Panchayati Raj Department will lead the initiative, coordinating with departments such as Agriculture, Horticulture, and Fisheries. Labour Department officials have been tasked with studying the migration trends and working conditions in other states where Odisha’s labourers migrate.
