Odisha Plans Integrated Development of Major Buddhist Sites

The Odisha government is preparing a comprehensive plan for the integrated development, heritage conservation and modern historical research of major Buddhist sites across the state, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said on Wednesday.

Addressing the International Buddhist Conference at Udayagiri in Jajpur district, Parida, who also holds the tourism portfolio, said the initiative will cover key Buddhist locations including Ratnagiri, Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, Jirang and Dhauli.

She said the proposed plan aims to preserve the rich Buddhist legacy of Odisha while promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging advanced historical and archaeological research. Emphasising the state’s commitment to protecting its cultural heritage, the Deputy Chief Minister said Odisha has played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism and continues to attract scholars and pilgrims from across the world.

Parida also informed that the state government has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Light of Buddha Foundation (LBF) to rejuvenate and promote Odisha’s Buddhist heritage through collaborative efforts.