Bengaluru: At the Urban Policy Dialogues 2025 hosted by the Indian Institute for Human Settlements (IIHS) in Bengaluru, Odisha highlighted its forward-looking approach to urban transformation. Smt. Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Housing & Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha, represented the state at the event, which serves as an influential platform shaping national urban policy and development strategies.
Taking part in a panel discussion on “Addressing Urban India’s Brewing Stranded Asset Crisis,” Smt. Padhee stressed the need for cities to be planned with long-term sustainability and human-centric principles at the forefront. She noted that infrastructure and urban investments must be resilient, inclusive and adaptable to the rapid social, demographic and environmental changes sweeping across India.
“Cities evolve around people — their dreams, challenges and lived experiences. Urban planning must recognise this reality. Our priority is to build cities that are climate-adaptive, technologically empowered and capable of ensuring dignity and improved living standards for all residents,” she remarked.
During her visit, Smt. Padhee also met with the Chief Commissioner of the Greater Bengaluru Authority for a comprehensive exchange on strengthening governance models for rapidly expanding metropolitan regions. The dialogue touched upon creating institutional frameworks that allow cities to function as dynamic economic centres, innovation-driven spaces and engines of balanced growth.
Reiterating Odisha’s proactive stance on urban reforms, she highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to advance technology-driven governance, promote community participation and implement policy measures aimed at enhancing both growth and liveability in urban areas.
Odisha continues to push for a model of city-building that places people at the centre — prioritising dignity, opportunity and long-term sustainability in every aspect of urban development.
