Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is set to introduce a new Heritage Policy aimed at conserving the state’s rich cultural legacy. The policy will place special emphasis on 75 key heritage sites across Odisha to ensure their preservation and promote tourism.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Tuesday said the state has over 3,000 heritage monuments, many dating back to the 9th century BC. “The Heritage Policy will help us protect and maintain these sites better,” she said.
A high-level meeting was held today with ministers from the Works, Culture, and Tourism departments, along with officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the State Archaeological Department. The discussion focused on conservation strategies, improving amenities, and making heritage sites more tourist-friendly.
The Deputy Chief Minister added that some monuments need restoration, as idols and other important features are missing from certain temples. The government plans to form a task force involving three departments — Culture, Works, and Tourism — to oversee conservation efforts and infrastructure development around heritage sites.
Along with the policy, the state will focus on improving access roads and basic facilities to make the heritage locations safer and more attractive for visitors. The government is also working on safeguarding smaller village monuments as part of this initiative.
The Heritage Policy and the task force are expected to be officially announced soon, marking a significant step toward preserving Odisha’s historical treasures.
