The World Bank has approved a $100 million loan to help Odisha strengthen its early forecasting systems for improved response to disasters and enhance its social protection coverage for poor and vulnerable households through digital platforms.

“The coastal state of Odisha is vulnerable to natural disasters with cyclones hitting the state every 15 months on average. The state’s 480km coastline is also exposed to tsunami risk. Recurrent disasters significantly impact economic activities including agricultural production, infrastructure and access to health, education, and jobs,” said the media release.

"The Odisha State Capability and Resilient Growth Programme will help reduce losses caused by natural disasters through a multi-hazard digital warning system and strengthen the state’s data collection efforts for better resilience planning. The programme will also increase social protection coverage through a cash transfer plan, with coastal and underserved communities receiving assistance through online delivery platforms," it said.