Naveen Patnaik govt to establish proposed Odia University in Puri district

Odisha government Monday decided to establish the proposed Odia University at 'Bakula Bana' in Puri district. The decision in this regard was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik here. Patnaik directed the officials to ensure that not a single tree was felled for construction of the Odia university at Bakula Bana. Puri Collector has been asked to expedite necessary procedures for the establishment of Odia University. A single-storey building with sandstones will be constructed for the purpose.

An official release issued by the Chief Minister's Office said an officer on special duty (OSD) will soon be appointed and the temporary office of the varsity will function from Pantha Niwas at Satyabadi. Earlier, the state government has proposed a budget of Rs 10 crore to be spent for the establishment of the varsity. At least 25-acres of land have also been earmarked for the purpose.

The proposed varsity would offer postgraduate courses in Odia language and literature. It would also facilitate research activities on literary criticism, the evolution of East Indian language scripts, historical scripts, archaeology and translation into and from Odia. Five iconic leaders of Odisha Pandit Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, Pandit Krupasindhu Mishra, Acharya Harihar Das, Pandit Godavarish Mishra and Pandit Nilakantha Das had founded the unique education system at the Bakul Bana with students being taught in the natural environment.