Odisha Govt to Set Up Dedicated Archaeology Directorate for Heritage Preservation

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet has cleared a major proposal to establish a separate Directorate of Archaeology and introduce a new service framework for archaeological curators, in a move aimed at strengthening conservation of the state’s vast historical and cultural heritage.

The Cabinet approved the proposal during its meeting held on Wednesday, giving formal sanction to the creation of the Directorate as well as the “Odisha Archaeological Curator Service (Method of Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2026”.

Officials said the decision is expected to bring greater administrative focus to the protection and maintenance of Odisha’s ancient temples, monuments and archaeological sites, many of which are of national and international significance.

The new Directorate will function as a specialised body for conservation activities, heritage research, documentation and promotion of Odisha’s archaeological wealth. It is also expected to improve coordination in preservation efforts and create a professional institutional structure for archaeological administration.

Sources said the proposal had earlier received in-principle approval from the Cabinet on October 19, 2023, following which the framework was finalised in consultation with different departments.

The new service rules have obtained concurrence from the General Administration & Public Grievance Department, Finance Department and Law Department, while the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) also approved the restructuring proposal.