• The High Powered Task Force has been constituted on 10.11.99 for rehabilitation and reconstruction in the cyclone-affected areas under the Chairmanship of Minister of Defence is now coordinating the relief measures.
• As decided by the Task Force, Central Public Sector Undertakings have taken up relief support in identified blocks/villages.

The composition of the Task Force will be as under:-

1. Minister of Defence ...Chairman
2. Secretary, Department of Expenditure... Member
3. Secretary, Ministry of Power ... Member
4. Secretary, D/Road Transport and Highways ... Member
5. Secretary, D/Agriculture & Cooperation ... Member
6. Secretary, Department of Rural Development ... Member
7. Secretary, D/Drinking Water Supply ... Member
8. Secretary, D/Telecom Services ... Member
9. Secretary, M/Urban Employment and Poverty Alleviation ... Member

The Chairman of the Task Force will have the option to co-opt any other individual in the Task Force as Member. Also, Task Force may co-opt representatives of other Government agencies like HUDCO, CAPART etc. as well as private bodies and NGOs, as may be required.

The Task Force will have the following specific terms of reference:-

1. To prepare a comprehensive action plan for rehabilitation and reconstruction in the cyclone affected areas of Orissa which should include both short term and medium/long term measures.
2. To make recommendations regarding the mode of implementation of the plan including its funding, participation of governmental as well as non-governmental organizations etc.
3. To make recommendations regarding the steps that need to be taken in other areas of the country which are prone to such calamities.

The relief operations being undertaken by various Ministries will also be coordinated through the Task Force.

The Task Force will be serviced by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation and would submit its report within one month. The Task Force may submit a preliminary report within 15 days.