Odisha Forms High-Level Ministerial Panel for Smooth Conduct of Rath Yatra

In preparation for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, scheduled for June 27, the Odisha government has formed a high-level ministerial committee to ensure the smooth and efficient conduct of the festival.

According to a notification issued by the Law Department on Friday, the committee will be chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. The panel is tasked with overseeing all aspects of planning and coordination for the mega event, which draws millions of devotees from across the world.

Other members of the committee include Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, and Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena. The Principal Secretary of the Law Department will serve as the convenor of the committee.

The Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, is one of the most significant religious and cultural events in Odisha. The state government’s move to constitute a dedicated ministerial panel underscores its commitment to ensure safety, logistics, healthcare, and other essential services are in place for the smooth execution of the grand event.

The committee is expected to coordinate closely with the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Puri district authorities, police, and other stakeholders to address various logistical and administrative requirements.