Odisha Officials Stop Andhra Pradesh’s Solar Kit Distribution in Kotia Region

Koraput: A fresh dispute has emerged along the Odisha–Andhra Pradesh border after Odisha officials intervened to stop a proposed distribution of solar equipment in the disputed Kotia region.

The incident occurred on Saturday in Upar Sembi village of Koraput district, where a team from Andhra Pradesh reportedly arrived with a truck carrying solar kits. The equipment was intended for distribution among around 36 families, with the activity scheduled to take place at approximately 2 PM.

After receiving information about the planned distribution, Odisha revenue officials, local administrative personnel and Kotia police reached the village and halted the operation. They objected to the initiative, stating that such activities by the neighbouring state could not proceed without approval in the disputed area.

Following the intervention, the Andhra Pradesh team reportedly left the village without distributing the solar equipment and returned with the consignment.

The Kotia region has remained a longstanding point of contention between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, with both states seeking to strengthen their presence through welfare schemes and development programmes aimed at local residents.

In the wake of Saturday’s incident, Odisha authorities have stepped up vigilance in the border area to prevent similar developments and reinforce administrative oversight in the region.