Odisha to Seek IFAD Loan for OPELIP-II

Why in the News?

The Odisha government plans to secure a ₹734.86-crore loan from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for Phase II of the Odisha PVTG Empowerment and Livelihood Improvement Programme (OPELIP-II). The ₹2,422-crore project aims to uplift the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) by improving their livelihoods and living conditions.

Key Highlights of OPELIP-II

• Scope: Expand to 1,138 villages, targeting better access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods.
• Interventions: Focus on micro-enterprises, agricultural improvement, and sustainable community-driven development.
• Concerns: Activists argue the loan might be unnecessary, citing Central funds under the PM-JANMAN Mission.
• Approval: Pending approval from IFAD's Executive Board.

Achievements of Phase I:

• Covered 541 villages and benefitted 1.34 lakh individuals.
• Worked on land rights, infrastructure, and agricultural development.
• Phase I ended in March 2024, but its closure report is yet to be completed.

About IFAD

• Establishment: Founded in 1977 after the 1974 World Food Conference, headquartered in Rome, Italy.
• Objective: Alleviate rural poverty and hunger, enhance food security, and build climate resilience in developing countries.
• Functions:
  • Supports rural infrastructure, land management, and climate change adaptation.
  • Focuses on empowering marginalized groups, including women, youth, and Indigenous communities.
• Structure:
  • Governing Council: Decision-making body with representatives from 180 member states.
  • Executive Board: Oversees operations, includes 18 members.
  • President: Heads operations and chairs the Executive Board.