Cuttack, July 15 (UDN): Odisha added a new landmark to its educational infrastructure with the inauguration of the Bishwanath Pandit Central Library at Badambadi in Cuttack on Tuesday. Built at a cost of ₹42 crore over nearly three acres, the modern public library is expected to serve as a premier centre for learning, research and intellectual engagement in the state.
The facility was inaugurated by Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, who described the library as a significant step towards strengthening Odisha’s knowledge ecosystem. He said the institution would promote reading, academic research, innovation and lifelong learning while providing world-class facilities for students, researchers, teachers and the general public.
Highlighting the government’s vision for Cuttack, the minister said efforts are underway to transform the historic city into a cleaner, greener and more vibrant urban centre. He assured that infrastructure development and civic improvements would continue to receive priority attention.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Library Management System (LMS), a digital platform designed to streamline library operations, improve book management and enhance user services through technology-driven solutions.
The programme also recognised the contributions of 35 prominent publishers from Cuttack, who were felicitated for their role in enriching Odisha’s literary and publishing landscape. In addition, a commemorative logo marking the 150th anniversary celebrations of the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) was unveiled.
In another major announcement, the minister virtually laid the foundation stone for a modern Goshala at Gurdijhatia. The proposed facility, to be developed over five acres at an estimated cost of ₹21 crore, is aimed at improving cattle welfare and supporting scientific livestock management.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Cuttack Municipal Corporation Commissioner Kirandeep Kaur Sahota said the library would emerge as a leading knowledge hub for Odisha by providing an inclusive space for education, research and intellectual exchange.
Developed by the Odisha State Police Housing and Welfare Corporation Ltd., the three-storey smart library has a collection of more than one lakh books and can accommodate over 1,000 readers at a time. The facility features a digital library, children’s reading section, dedicated research wing, central air-conditioning, high-speed internet, an 84-seat auditorium, audio-visual conference hall, cafeteria, photocopying services and accessible infrastructure for persons with disabilities.
The library is also equipped with CCTV surveillance, round-the-clock security, fire safety systems, solar power facilities, landscaped green spaces and ample parking, making it one of the most advanced public library facilities in Odisha.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by public representatives, including local MLAs, CMC Mayor Subash Singh, Deputy Mayor Damayanti Majhi, District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, senior police officials, corporators and other dignitaries.