Bhubaneswar a perfect showcase for inclusion of more sites of Odisha in UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Bhubaneswar, February 2, 2018: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen
Patnaik Friday hoped for inclusion of more sites of the State in the UNESCO
World Heritage Sites. 

“Bhubaneswar, our Capital city, is a unique confluence of
history, heritage and modernity. Known as the Ekamra Kshetra, it has been the
cultural seat of the state for centuries, preserving our unique heritage
through the magnificent Kalingan temple architecture, the Jain caves to the
spectacular conglomeration of monuments. Today, it is undergoing transformation
into a Smart City in the country. I hope that more sites of our State will find
place in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites,” said Patnaik.

The Government will take appropriate steps to identify,
preserve and protect those sites as per the norms, asserted Patnaik.

Patnaik was speaking at the 5th International Biennial
Conference of Indian Heritage Cities Network Foundation (IHCN-F) being jointly
organised by State Government, Indian Heritage Cities Network Foundation and
UNESCO, New Delhi. The other partners include Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation
(BMC), Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), Culture, Housing and Urban Development
Departments.

“While we are developing Smart City, we are laying equal
emphasis on preservation of its cultural identity and heritage. The government
is committed to develop modern amenities and facilities in our cities as well
as making socio-cultural life vibrant with art, craft and heritage,” said
Patnaik.

The programme, which is being held at Infosys campus here, will
end on February 4. Planners, artists and international heritage conservation
experts, among others are in attendance. The event is being conducted to
exchange knowledge and experiences about the recent advancements made by
different cities to harness their heritage assets for sustainable development.