In a landmark step toward urban transformation, the Government of Odisha has launched a visionary initiative titled ANKUR – Atal Network for Knowledge, Urbanisation and Reforms.
Spearheaded by the Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department, ANKUR is envisioned as a strategic platform to drive urban innovation, foster collaborative partnerships, and build smart, sustainable, and citizen-centric cities.
The launch event, held onWednesday, witnessed the signing ofMemorandums of Understanding (MoUs)withsix leading organisationsthat play significant roles in theurban development ecosystem. The agreements were signed in the presence ofHousing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, marking a new chapter in Odisha’s urban journey.
WithOdisha’s urban population projected to triple by 2036, the state faces bothsignificant challengesandimmense opportunities. ANKUR is thus designed as atransformative platformto respond proactively to these demographic shifts.
It aims to help cities become more:
- Resilientto climate and infrastructural stress
- Livable, with citizen well-being at the core
- Future-ready, in line with global urban standards
