The Odisha government has appointed Arabinda Kumar Padhee as the new chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) in Puri, replacing senior IAS officer V V Yadav. The announcement was made through a notification issued by the law department late on Thursday night.

The appointment was made under sub-section 19 of the Shree Jagannath Temple Act, 1954. The notification stated, “In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section 19 of Shree Jagannath Temple Act, 1954, the State Government do hereby appoint Arabinda Kumar Padhee, IAS, as chief administrator, SJTA, Puri in addition to his present duties for the time being and until further orders in place of V V Yadav, IAS.”

Arabinda Kumar Padhee, a distinguished IAS officer, will now oversee the administration of one of India’s most revered temples. This appointment comes at a critical time as the temple continues to manage the influx of devotees and the various developmental activities underway.

The Shree Jagannath Temple, an iconic religious and cultural landmark, attracts millions of pilgrims annually. The new chief administrator’s role will be pivotal in ensuring the temple’s smooth functioning and the welfare of its devotees.

The Odisha government expressed confidence in Padhee’s capabilities to lead the SJTA, given his extensive experience and proven administrative skills. The transition of responsibilities is expected to be seamless, with Padhee continuing to fulfill his current duties alongside his new role at the temple.

This significant appointment is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the management and administration of the Shree Jagannath Temple, ensuring it remains a center of devotion and heritage.