Odisha Chief Minister Lays Foundation for Modern Rs 93.27-Crore Bhavan in New Delhi
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday officially laid the foundation stone for the new Odisha Bhavan in New Delhi, a state-of-the-art complex with a budget of Rs 93.27 crore. The modern facility, located in Chanakyapuri, will replace the aging existing structure and is designed to reflect Odisha's rich artistic and cultural heritage through the incorporation of Sambalpuri Ikkat design elements.
Modern Design and Infrastructure Details
The upcoming building will feature an impressive architectural layout, including three basements, a ground floor, and six additional floors, totaling seven floors above ground. It will house 45 fully-equipped suites with modern amenities for official use. The first floor will include an exhibition gallery dedicated to showcasing Odisha's culture, while the second floor will feature a 70-seat conference hall for meetings and events.
Chief Minister Majhi confirmed that the tender process has been successfully completed, and construction will commence shortly for this two-year project. He emphasized that the new Bhavan will be green energy-compliant, incorporating sustainable practices and technologies.
Addressing Administrative and Cultural Needs
The existing Odisha Bhavan in Delhi had become outdated and inadequate for current requirements, prompting the state government to initiate this replacement project. The new facility aims to strengthen administrative coordination and enhance cultural engagement with major cities across India. "The building will serve as a cultural ambassador for Odisha while meeting modern functional needs," Majhi stated during the ceremony.
Expansion Plans for Odisha Bhavans Nationwide
The government has announced ambitious expansion plans for Odisha Bhavans across the country. Similar facilities are planned in Ayodhya, Bengaluru, and Surat, with the state government having requested land from the respective local authorities. Currently, Odisha Bhavans are already operational in Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai.
Additionally, the state is considering constructing a second building in Mumbai to better serve public convenience. To ensure proper maintenance of all these facilities, Chief Minister Majhi announced the establishment of an independent division specifically tasked with overseeing the upkeep of Odisha Bhavans nationwide.
Additional Initiatives Announced
In a related development, Majhi revealed plans to construct a public shelter near Bhubaneswar's Master Canteen Square. This facility will provide accommodation for up to three days at a nominal cost for people visiting the capital from other districts for urgent work. "This will offer much-needed affordable temporary housing for citizens conducting official business in the capital," he explained.
Furthermore, the state government has sought land in another location within Delhi for the construction of an additional facility, indicating continued expansion of Odisha's administrative presence in the national capital.
Dignitaries Present at the Ceremony
The foundation stone laying ceremony in New Delhi was attended by several prominent figures, including Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, Public Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit, and Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh. Their presence underscored the significance of this project for both state and national administration.
