16th Finance Commission Visits Odisha, Impressed by Tribal Culture and Sports Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: The 16th Finance Commission, currently on a four-day visit to Odisha, arrived in Bhubaneswar today for an insightful tour of the state’s cultural heritage and sports infrastructure. The Commission, led by Chairman Dr. Arvind Panagariya, visited the Odisha State Tribal Museum and Kalinga Stadium in the afternoon.

At the Odisha State Tribal Museum, the Commission members were introduced to the rich cultural heritage of the tribal communities. They were particularly impressed by the wide array of tribal ornaments, including leg ornaments, bracelets, waist cords, and other handlooms showcased at the special abhushan centre. The museum also displayed dokra crafts, tribal furniture, and various paintings, highlighting the diversity and intricacy of tribal art.

A key highlight was the tribal housing complex exhibit, which provided a glimpse into the traditional dwellings and lifestyle of Odisha’s indigenous people. The Commission members also watched a documentary in the museum auditorium, focusing on the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the tribal community, which further deepened their appreciation for the state’s efforts in preserving and promoting its tribal heritage. The Commission expressed satisfaction with the state’s efforts to protect and sustain tribal traditions, art, and artefacts.

Following the museum visit, the Commission members toured the Kalinga Stadium, one of India’s premier sports complexes. They visited the Sports Science Center, Biomechanics Lab, Gait Lab, and the Spin Studio. The tour also included the Para Athlete Performance Center, Tennis Center, Athletics Center, Hockey Stadium, Gymnastics Center, Aquatic Center, and the Gopichand Badminton High Performance Center. The Commission showed keen interest in the state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure that support the development of athletes, particularly in para-sports and youth sports programs.

Present at the visit were Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the Finance Commission, along with Shri Ajay Narayan Jha, Mrs. Annie George Mathew, Dr. Manoj Panda, Economic Advisor Dr. Prashant Kumar Panda, and other members of the Commission. Also present were Shashwat Mishra, Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, and Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma, Principal Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department.

The Commission’s visit is a part of its broader tour to understand the state’s development needs. Tomorrow, the Finance Commission is scheduled to visit Dhauli Gram Panchayat, Konark, and Puri, further exploring the state’s diverse cultural and developmental landscape.

With a focus on the preservation of heritage and the promotion of sports, the Finance Commission’s visit reflects the state’s commitment to fostering holistic development, blending tradition with modernity.