Bhubaneswar, Dec 24 (INAS) On Wednesday, the Odisha Cabinet sanctioned various significant proposals, among which is the initiation of the ‘Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana’. This scheme is designed to pay tribute to the state's remarkable sons by converting their places of birth into localized heritage sites.

As per an official announcement, the cabinet, convened in Bhubaneswar and presided over by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, endorsed 10 proposals spanning seven departments.

The state government intends to launch the ‘Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana’ as a structured and budget-backed initiative aimed at safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage, endorsing community-driven cultural conservation, and generating localized heritage assets throughout the state. Plans include transforming the homes of the ‘Baraputras’ into heritage museums, establishing essential infrastructure like an Interpretation Centre, Library, Conference Hall, Open-Air Theatre, Children's Parks, and other pertinent facilities, in addition to erecting statues and memorials to honor the Baraputras.

The government also proposed the establishment of dedicated outlets to market locally recognized cuisine, handicrafts, and handloom products, thereby supporting local livelihoods.

Moreover, the plan encompasses organizing seminars, discussions, interactive sessions, and cultural events focused on the lives and contributions of the Baraputras, aiming to spread and elevate their philosophies, beliefs, and core values.

“In the initial phase of this initiative, 25 distinguished sons of Odisha have been earmarked for development. Financial support of up to Rs 15 crore per birthplace will be allocated, depending on the actual needs for the development and conservation of these heritage sites. Consequently, the projected expenditure for Phase I is set at Rs 345 crore,” stated the government.

Official sources confirmed that this holistic strategy seeks to conserve heritage, enhance cultural consciousness, and stimulate sustainable local growth.

In the same meeting, the state cabinet also approved a framework under the government’s flagship Bikashita Gaon Bikashita Odisha Scheme, which aims for a more participatory and grassroots approach in project approvals.

“Under the revised methodology, project proposals based on community needs can now be invited from members of PRI (Panchayati Raj Institutions), elected officials, or civil society members through notices posted on the notice board of the Collectorate, Zilla Parishad, Block, GPs, and the District web portal,” noted the government.

The District Level Committee, led by the District Collector, will evaluate these proposals, and the finalized project list will be sanctioned by the Collector of the respective District. To fortify accountability, a mandatory Defect Liability Period (DLP) of three years has been instituted for all projects exceeding Rs 10.00 lakh, commencing from the completion date.

Additionally, during the Wednesday meeting, the cabinet sanctioned several other essential proposals, including the ‘UTKARSH ITI Yojana’, aimed at upgrading five government ITIs into Centres of Excellence, and the MMSBY – Installation of Smart Meters Phase-I initiative, aimed at ensuring prompt implementation of 100 percent smart metering across the State.