In a significant move to commemorate the contributions of Odisha’s iconic figures, the State Cabinet, in its meeting held today, approved the implementation of the ‘Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana’.
The scheme aims to systematically document, preserve, and institutionalise the lifelong sacrifices and achievements of the state’s great sons and daughters, including freedom fighters, poets, litterateurs, educationists, and social reformers.
The initiative recognises the pivotal role these eminent personalities played in shaping Odisha’s social, cultural, and literary identity. Their efforts not only contributed to India’s freedom struggle but also strengthened values of nationalism, unity, and social justice, fostering a strong Odia collective identity.
Under the ‘Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana’, the residential houses of these ‘Baraputras’ (great sons) will be conserved and developed into heritage museums. Additional infrastructure, including interpretation centres, libraries, conference halls, open-air theatres, and children’s parks, will be created to enhance visitor experience.
The scheme also includes the installation of statues and memorials, setting up outlets for local cuisine, handicrafts, and handloom products to support livelihoods, and organizing seminars, discussions, and cultural programs to disseminate the ideas and values of these luminaries.
This integrated approach is designed to preserve both tangible and intangible heritage, promote community-based conservation, and generate localized heritage assets, ultimately boosting cultural tourism and sustainable local development.
In the first phase, 25 eminent personalities from Odisha have been selected. The government will provide financial assistance of up to ₹15 crore per birthplace, based on actual needs, leading to a total estimated expenditure of ₹345 crore for Phase I.
Future phases will expand to include more personalities, with funds allocated annually through the state budget to ensure continuity.
The Cabinet’s decision underscores the government’s commitment to inspiring future generations, fostering public pride, and transmitting heritage values intergenerationally while creating economic opportunities through heritage-based activities.
This scheme is expected to position Odisha as a key destination for cultural tourism, highlighting its rich legacy of visionaries who shaped the state’s ethos.
