Bhubaneswar, April 7: The Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department is celebrating Odia Pakhya across the state from 1st April to 14th April. The seventh day of the celebration was observed as “Shishu Katha Divas” on Tuesday.
On the occasion, students in primary schools across various districts were distributed copies of Barnabodha and Shishulekha books. In addition, copies of the Bhagabata were presented to eminent persons and senior citizens.
Around 18,000 copies of Barnabodha and Shishulekha were distributed among students, while 2,000 copies of the Bhagabata were also handed over on the day.
A programme marking the occasion was held at PM Shri Sadashiv Government High School in Umerkote, Nabarangpur district, where School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, attended as the chief guest. He described the distribution of ‘Barnabodha’ and ‘Shishulekha’ books among students as a welcome initiative to promote reading habits and strengthen the foundation of Odia language learning.
“Shishu Katha Divas” was also observed in various private schools and NGOs across the state. The initiative aims to promote Odia language and literature while helping students become familiar with the state’s rich culture, traditions and folklore.
It may be noted that the eighth day of Odia Pakhya, to be observed on April 8, will feature a blood donation drive to be organised by the Higher Education and the Health & Family Welfare Department.