Bhubaneswar: The state government of Odisha has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to establish a Biju Patnaik Special Centre for Odia Studies. This initiative aims to offer a postgraduate program focused on Odia studies, as well as delve into the leadership and governance of former chief minister Biju Patnaik, Jagannath culture, and manuscriptology of ancient Odia literature.
Under the agreement, the state government will provide a one-time assistance of Rs 10 crore for the center’s development. The MoU was signed between JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, and Higher Education Secretary Aravind Agrawal.
The Biju Patnaik Special Centre for Odia Studies will have several key areas of focus. It will promote international teaching and research in Odia language and literature, explore the historical maritime connections of the Kalinga empire with Southeast Asia, establish diasporic connections, and foster contemporary Odia culture through collaborative research and publications.
The collaboration between JNU and the state government of Odisha holds immense significance for the preservation and promotion of Odia language, literature, and culture. With the establishment of the center, scholars and students will have access to comprehensive resources and academic opportunities to further their understanding and research in these areas.
This initiative also highlights the commitment of the Odisha government to honor the legacy of Biju Patnaik, the former chief minister known for his significant contributions to Odisha’s development and welfare. By studying his leadership and governance, the center aims to inspire future leaders and instill a sense of pride among the people of Odisha.
The MoU signing ceremony was held at Naveen Niwas, the residence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The event marked a significant step towards strengthening the partnership between the state government and JNU, and it sets the stage for the establishment of a world-class center dedicated to Odia studies.
The Biju Patnaik Special Centre for Odia Studies at JNU is expected to attract scholars, researchers, and language enthusiasts from around the world. By offering a comprehensive postgraduate program and promoting extensive research, it will contribute to the preservation and propagation of Odia culture, language, and literature on a global scale.
The establishment of this center is a testament to the commitment and vision of both the state government of Odisha and JNU. It represents a strategic collaboration that aims to create a platform for academic excellence and knowledge dissemination in the field of Odia studies.
The government’s financial support of Rs 10 crore demonstrates its dedication to fostering educational initiatives that safeguard the cultural heritage and linguistic diversity of Odisha. This significant investment will help create state-of-the-art facilities, develop research programs, and attract reputed faculty members to the center.
With the signing of the MoU, the Biju Patnaik Special Centre for Odia Studies is poised to become a prominent hub for academic and research activities related to Odia language, literature, culture, and history. It is set to make a significant impact in preserving the rich heritage of Odisha and promoting the study and understanding of Odia language and culture worldwide.
