Odisha Launches Samikshya Portal for Finance Commission Projects

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has launched the ‘Samikshya’ portal to enable real-time monitoring of projects funded under the State Finance Commission (SFC) and Central Finance Commission (CFC) grants. The digital platform marks a significant step towards strengthening transparency, accountability and timely delivery of public services at the grassroots level across the state.

Real-time tracking of grassroots infrastructure

The Samikshya portal allows citizens, elected representatives and government officials to track the physical and financial progress of development works funded through SFC and CFC grants. These include projects related to roads, drinking water supply, sanitation, street lighting, parks and other essential public utilities. By offering real-time data, the portal seeks to reduce delays, curb cost overruns and improve the quality of local infrastructure delivery.

Enhancing transparency and citizen participation

By making project information publicly accessible, the portal aims to strengthen citizen oversight and participatory governance. Residents can monitor ongoing works in their localities and assess whether projects are progressing as planned. Officials said this approach is expected to build public trust, improve inter-departmental coordination and ensure that development funds reach intended outcomes without administrative bottlenecks.

Role of the Sixth State Finance Commission

The initiative aligns with the recommendations of the Sixth State Finance Commission, chaired by Arun Kumar Panda. The commission has emphasised predictable and formula-based devolution of funds to local bodies, with special focus on equity, regional imbalances and the distinct needs of rural and urban institutions. Constituted by Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, the commission was tasked with recommending principles for the distribution of the state’s tax and non-tax revenues among panchayati raj institutions and urban local bodies, along with measures to strengthen their financial position.

Important Facts for Exams

• State Finance Commissions are constituted under Article 243-I of the Constitution.
• Central Finance Commission recommends devolution of central taxes to states and local bodies.
• Panchayati raj institutions form the third tier of governance in India.
• Transparency portals are key tools for outcome-based public expenditure management.

Consultative approach and expected outcomes

During its tenure, the Sixth SFC adopted a consultative and evidence-based approach, engaging with government departments, civil society organisations and citizens, and conducting field visits across districts. The Samikshya portal is expected to translate these recommendations into practice by enabling continuous monitoring, improving accountability and ensuring timely execution of SFC- and CFC-funded works, thereby strengthening service delivery at the grassroots level.