Housing:
Housing is one of the three most essential and basic needs, the other two being food and clothing. As an outcome of unequal development and distribution of income, assets and resources, there is mushrooming of slums in and around all major cities and towns in the State. In rural areas too people residing in Kutcha sheds living side-by side with cattle is a normal sight. As per 1991 Census there were a total of 5983250 households and the number of residential houses was 5300570. This shows a shortage of 682680 (11.41%) residential houses. In respect of rural Orissa the shortage was estimated to be 633200 i.e. 12.25%. Since independence, Orissa has been a continuous victim of recurring flood, cyclones and drought. Around 1.65 million houses were destroyed in coastal districts of Orissa in October 1999 cyclones immediately followed by super cyclones. In 2001 July more than 1 lakh house were destroyed due to flood.

Agriculture:
Agriculture plays a dominant role in the state economy. Agricultural and animal husbandry contributed 25 – 97% of the NSOP in 2003 – 2004 at 1993 – 94 prices. Agriculture alone provides employment to 65% of the total workforce of the state (2001 census). Recognizing the importance of this sector to the state economy the Govt. has come up with a comprehensive Agricultural Policy according it the status of Industry. This sector has however remained vulnerable to natural factors. However the development of minor and medium irrigation had introduction of Pani Panchayat (community owned small irrigation projects) have added new impetus to agriculture development.