In an important update, the Chief Minister’s Office of Odisha has announced changes to the celebration dates of Panchayati Raj Diwas and Biju Patnaik’s birth anniversary.
Starting this year, Panchayati Raj Day will be celebrated on April 24 instead of March 5. Since 2020, Odisha has been observing Panchayati Raj Diwas on March 5 each year. However, April 24 is recognized as National Panchayati Raj Diwas across the country, with awards being presented to Panchayat representatives from various states.
To resolve the inconsistency between national and state-level celebrations, the state government has decided to align Odisha’s Panchayati Raj Diwas with the national observance on April 24.
Additionally, Lok Seva Diwas will also be celebrated on April 24. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved this proposal.
March 5 will continue to be a significant day in Odisha, as it marks the birth anniversary of Biju Patnaik, a revered figure in the state. The government will celebrate the legendary Biju Babu’s birth anniversary with grand events, though it will not be observed as a government holiday.
This change aims to ensure consistency in the celebration of Panchayati Raj Day at both the national and state levels, promoting a unified approach to recognizing the contributions of Panchayat representatives and enhancing the significance of this important day.
