Rayagada CDO Akshay Khemundu wins million hearts through exemplary work

By Chandrabhanu Singh

Rayagada, Aug. 30: On a rainy government holiday, Rayagada Zilla Parishad Chief Development Officer (CDO) Akshay Kumar Khemundu made a visit to the remote Dongria Kondh villages under Munikhola Gram Panchayat in Muniguda block, drawing praise from both officials and locals.

Khemundu began his day at the Munikhola Panchayat Office, where he held discussions with the Sarpanch, PEO, GRS, masons, and field staff. Together, they chalked out an action plan to ensure the completion of all pending houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) by September 30.

Braving heavy rains and rough terrain, the young officer reached Badadenguni, Sanadenguni, and Sakata villages—travelling part of the way on motorcycle and the rest on foot. He reviewed the progress of welfare schemes and interacted directly with families from the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) to verify whether government benefits were reaching them.

Expressing concern over construction delays caused by poor road connectivity, Khemundu directed officials to extend all possible support to complete PMAY houses within the deadline. He also emphasized the need to promote goat rearing, piggery, and poultry farming under MGNREGS to strengthen the livelihoods of PVTG households.

During the inspection, he checked basic amenities like electricity and drinking water, which he found largely satisfactory. Later, he convened a detailed review meeting at the Muniguda block office to assess development works.

The surprise visit not only heightened accountability among officials but also brought joy to villagers, who were encouraged by the rare opportunity to share their grievances directly with the district officer.

Despite the continuous drizzle and slippery pathways, Khemundu’s on-ground inspection was widely appreciated. Locals remarked that such proactive steps could go a long way in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s vision of “Viksit Gaon – Viksit Odisha” (Developed Villages – Developed Odisha).

Khemundu’s initiative is now being hailed as a model of responsive governance for administrators across the state.

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Photograph: Rayagada CDO Akshay Khemundu (centre) in a Dongaria Kondh village.