The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has launched a new chapter in Keonjhar, Orissa. The historic Durbar Hall was the location for the launch, which was attended by state government officials, historians, and members of the public. The chapter will focus on preserving the rich cultural and environmental heritage of the Keonjhar district, including documentation of the tribal heritage, the geology of the area, and the wildlife habitat.
INTACH was established in New Delhi in 1984 by a group of prominent Indians, including Naveen Patnaik, who is currently the Chief Minister of Orissa. The Keonjhar chapter will be made up of 20 Life Members who are committed to preserving the district’s heritage. The badges were handed over to each member at the inauguration of the chapter.
Historian, researcher, and writer Anil Dhir, Co-Convener of INTACH Orissa Chapter, spoke at the launch and highlighted the mission and achievements of INTACH. He also proposed the creation of a District Museum in Keonjhar to house artifacts that are currently located in various museums throughout the country. The rich tribal heritage of the area should also be documented, he said, and a new interpretation center should be established. The geological heritage of the district was another topic of interest.
Collector Ashish Thakre and DFO Dhanraj discussed the significance of the wildlife habitat and the geological heritage in their speeches. Mr. Thakre gave assurances that the district administration would offer its full support to the mission of INTACH in Keonjhar.
In a special presentation, celebrated puppeteer Maguni Charan Kunar was honored with the Padma Shri award, one of the highest civilian awards of the Republic of India.
