Cabinet nod to OTD CM Fellows to boost grassroots economic planning

Lucknow: The state cabinet on Monday approved the inclusion of two One Trillion Dollar (OTD) Fellows — one from the economic development section and the other from the data analysis wing — as OTD CM fellows to support the District OTD Cell, operating in various districts under the chairmanship of respective district magistrates.The move is expected to enhance coordination, monitoring and data-driven governance at the grassroots.The UP govt introduced the OTD CM Fellow with the aim of strengthening district-level implementation to achieve the state’s ambitious goal of becoming a trillion-dollar economy.The cabinet note said that the selected fellows will work closely with various departments to review key indicators related to agriculture, industry, investment, infrastructure, tourism, employment and District Domestic Product (DDP). They will be responsible for conducting scientific data analysis and preparing monthly and quarterly progress reports.To ensure transparency and efficiency, an online dashboard developed by the planning department will be used for reporting and monitoring. This system is aimed at making the decision-making process more transparent, evidence-based and outcome-oriented.Candidates applying for the fellowship must hold a postgraduate degree in relevant fields and be under 40 years of age. Preference will be given to applicants with strong academic performance, research publications and relevant work experience.Selected fellows will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 50,000, along with a laptop, travel allowance and accommodation or housing allowance. The fellowship will initially be for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance.The selection of the candidates will be conducted by the State Transformation Commission (STC) and will include a written test (50 marks), weightage for desirable qualifications (30 marks) and an interview (20 marks).Through this programme, OTD CM Fellows will assist districts in identifying local resources, assessing growth potential and developing evidence-based development strategies. The initiative is expected to improve prioritisation and ensure more effective implementation of govt schemes at the district level.