In a landmark decision aimed at preserving the state’s priceless cultural legacy, the Odisha Cabinet has approved the creation of a separate Directorate of Archaeology along with a new service cadre for professional management of ancient monuments and temples.
The Odisha State Cabinet today gave final approval for the establishment of a dedicated Directorate of Archaeology, marking a significant step toward systematic protection, conservation, and promotion of the state’s rich archaeological treasures.
The move fulfils a decision taken by the Cabinet on 19 October 2023 to restructure the existing Archaeological Curator Service and formulate a comprehensive cadre rule.
The new Directorate will focus on the better management, protection, and preservation of ancient temples, monuments, and other archaeological elements scattered across Odisha. Officials believe the specialised body will significantly boost research activities and help showcase the state’s glorious cultural heritage on both national and international platforms.
As part of the reform, the government has also finalised the “Odisha Archaeological Curator Service (Method of Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2026”. The rules, which have received concurrence from the General Administration & Public Grievance, Finance, and Law Departments, as well as approval from the Odisha Public Service Commission and the Hon’ble Chief Minister, will govern recruitment and promotion of officers in this specialised service.
With this dedicated institutional framework now in place, Odisha is poised to strengthen its efforts in heritage conservation, tourism promotion, and academic research in archaeology.
