The Odisha government has swung into high gear for the upcoming Rath Yatra 2026 by deploying 30 senior administrative officers to Puri.
These officers will serve as Officers on Special Duty (OSD) from 20 June to 27 July 2026 to assist the district administration in the smooth and safe conduct of the world-famous chariot festival.
In an official order issued by the General Administration & Public Grievance Department on 17 June 2026, the state has mobilised top bureaucrats from across departments to strengthen on-ground coordination during the mega event that draws millions of devotees to the coastal town every year.
The officers, all from the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS), include Special Secretaries, Additional Secretaries, Joint Secretaries and other senior functionaries from departments such as Health & Family Welfare, Housing & Urban Development, Tourism, Works, Energy, Panchayati Raj, Commerce & Transport, and several others. They have been directed to report immediately to the Collector & District Magistrate, Puri, for further instructions.
The Rath Yatra, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, involves the majestic procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra on massive, beautifully decorated chariots through the streets of Puri. Managing such a massive influx of pilgrims requires flawless planning in crowd control, traffic management, medical services, sanitation, accommodation and logistics — areas where these experienced officers will lend critical support.
The order has also been forwarded to all concerned departments with instructions to relieve the officers promptly so they can join the Puri team at the earliest.
With this dedicated team of 30 senior officers now reinforcing the district administration, Rath Yatra 2026 is expected to be conducted with even greater efficiency, safety and grandeur.
