Bhubaneswar: In a significant decision aimed at strengthening the protection and preservation of the state’s rich cultural heritage, the Odisha Cabinet has approved the establishment of a separate Directorate of Archaeology along with the creation of the Odisha Archaeological Curator Service Rules.
The Cabinet, in its meeting held today, gave final approval to the proposal for setting up the Directorate of Archaeology and the restructuring of the Archaeological Curator Service.
The move also includes the formal notification of the “Odisha Archaeological Curator Service (Method of Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2026”.This decision follows the initial Cabinet resolution taken on 19th October 2023. The new Directorate is expected to ensure better management, protection, and preservation of ancient temples, monuments, and other archaeological treasures scattered across the state.
Official sources said the dedicated Directorate will play a key role in systematic conservation of archaeological sites, promotion of research activities, and wider publicity of Odisha’s glorious cultural heritage.
The new service rules have received necessary concurrence from the Departments of General Administration & Public Grievance, Finance, and Law. The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has also given its approval, and the proposal received the nod of the Chief Minister prior to Cabinet approval.
With this decision, the state government aims to professionalise archaeological services and ensure more effective safeguarding of Odisha’s priceless historical monuments for future generations.
