Discontent Over BGBO Project List in Sinapali: Sarpanches and Panchayat Samiti Members Seek Reconsideration

Sinapali, September 2: Discontent has surfaced among Panchayati Raj representatives in Sinapali Block over the approved project list under the Bikashita Gaon Bikashita Odisha (BGBO) Scheme 2026-27. Seeking reconsideration of the approved list and inclusion of projects proposed by elected representatives, the Sarpanchs and Panchayat Samiti members of Sinapali Panchayat Samiti have submitted a written representation to the Nuapada District Collector. In their representation, the elected representatives stated that, in accordance with government guidelines regarding the BGBO scheme, the Zilla Parishad had invited project proposals from Panchayati Raj representatives. Subsequently, Sarpanchs and Panchayat Samiti members from various Gram Panchayats under Sinapali Block submitted proposals based on the local needs and problems faced by the people in their respective areas. The representatives further stated that feasibility reports were sought from the Sinapali Block Development Officer (BDO) to assess the viability of the proposed projects. According to the representation, the BDO subsequently submitted feasibility reports regarding the proposed projects. However, the representatives expressed dissatisfaction after finding that several of their proposed projects had not been included in the subsequently published approved project list. They alleged that the basic problems and genuine requirements of local communities had not been given due consideration while finalising the projects. The representatives maintained that failure to reconsider the approved project list could undermine the core objectives of the BGBO scheme. They also urged the administration to give due importance to the proposals submitted by democratically elected public representatives and prioritise projects based on local requirements. Accordingly, they have requested the District Collector to reconsider the BGBO 2026-27 approved project list and include at least one proposed project from each Sarpanch and Panchayat Samiti member of Sinapali Block in the approved list. The representatives expressed hope that the administration would seriously consider their demands and take appropriate steps to ensure that the BGBO scheme is implemented effectively by prioritising the basic needs of the people and the overall development of the local areas.