Odisha govt exempts over Rs 1400000000 dues for this university, allots land for expansion

The Odisha government has allocated 40.19 acres of land by waiving dues worth Rs 140.71 crore to support Dharanidhar University’s expansion in Keonjhar district.

The decision was approved by the Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi-led cabinet on Wednesday. 

Further, the move aims to establish the university’s northern and southern campuses, enhancing access to higher education in the region.

Land Allocation Details

According to a report of The Times of India, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department will lease land across the four villages of Suleikhamar, Satasingha, Gambharia, and Bramhangaon in Keonjhar tehsil.

The state exempted one-time charges of Rs 140.71 crore and recurring annual fees of Rs 50.26 lakh, ensuring cost-free land transfer, easing financial pressure on the university, which is one of the premier public institutions in Odisha.

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Focus on Academic Growth

Dharanidhar University will reportedly construct two new campuses on the allocated land, significantly increasing its student capacity, attracting skilled faculty, and modernising research facilities. 

The initiative aligns with Odisha’s broader goal of using education to drive socio-economic development in tribal-dominated Keonjhar.

Irrigation Project Approved

In a separate decision, the cabinet cleared Rs 97.67 crore barrage on the Khairibhandan River in Mayurbhanj district.

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Slated for completion in 30 months, the project will irrigate 6,950 hectares of farmland and supply drinking water to 35,000 people across 47 villages.