Odisha Launches ANKUR: A Strategic Urban Transformation Initiative
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 on Wednesday, witnessed the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with six leading organisations that play significant roles in the urban development ecosystem. The agreements were signed in the presence of Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, marking a new chapter in Odisha’s urban journey.
With Odisha’s urban population projected to triple by 2036, the state faces both significant challenges and immense opportunities. ANKUR is thus designed as a transformative platform to respond proactively to these demographic shifts.
It aims to help cities become more:
- Resilient to climate and infrastructural stress
- Livable, with citizen well-being at the core
- Future-ready, in line with global urban standards