Cuttack, Odisha (India), October 2025:
In a remarkable step to revive reading habits among the youth, the Cuttack District Administration has announced that 75,000 books will be distributed free of cost at the upcoming Cuttack Balijatra 2025. The initiative aims to promote Odia language, literature, and culture in the digital era.
Promoting Reading and Odia Literature
Cuttack District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde stated that the administration has already purchased 75,000 books, which will be given away to students and visitors during the fair. A special book stall will be set up at the Balijatra ground where these books will be distributed.
“The goal is to rekindle people’s interest in reading and strengthen the connection with Odia literature,” said the Collector. “We want the younger generation to rediscover the joy of books and appreciate the richness of our language.”
Citizens Invited to Donate Books
The administration has also invited citizens to donate Odia books for the campaign. To facilitate public participation, book collection centers have been established at the Collector’s Office, Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC), and several government offices across the district.
A special mobile application has been launched for easy registration of donations. Once a person donates books, the administration will send a thank-you message via WhatsApp and issue a digital certificate of appreciation to acknowledge their contribution.
Theme: “Odia Language, Odia Literature”
The theme of Balijatra 2025 is “Odia Language, Odia Literature.” The fair will highlight the importance of preserving and promoting the Odia language while celebrating the region’s cultural legacy.
So far, over 3,000 books have already been donated by enthusiastic citizens since the collection drive began. These donated books will also be distributed during the festival, especially among school and college students.
Encouraging Cultural Awareness and Literacy
This initiative is expected to create a lasting social impact by encouraging reading habits, promoting the Odia language, and connecting the youth with the state’s literary traditions.
The Cuttack District Administration’s effort stands as an example of how local governance can creatively blend education, culture, and community engagement to build a stronger literary culture in Odisha.
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