Bhubaneswar: Odisha Darshan Programme–2026 got underway on Wednesday, bringing together around 260 National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers from various parts of the state for an enriching four-day tour.
Organized by the State NSS unit in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education, the initiative is designed to give young participants direct exposure to the state’s key tourist attractions, ancient temples, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage sites. The programme also includes visits to prominent universities and colleges, fostering a deeper appreciation
of Odisha’s educational landscape alongside its cultural treasures.
The journey began this morning after a ceremonial flag-off at the Red Cross Bhawan in Bhubaneswar. The event was attended by senior officials, including Director, Higher Education Department, Kali Prasanna Mahapatra; Deputy Secretary Ramesh Chandra Behera and Regional Director of NSS Sarita Patel.
Mahapatra highlighted the programme’s value in helping young people connect more profoundly with Odisha’s illustrious history, art, heritage, and traditions. “This exposure to the state’s diverse social and cultural environments will empower NSS volunteers to serve society more effectively in the years ahead,” he said.
Running from January 28 to 31, the tour aims to inspire the participants, several of whom are already involved in grassroots service activities, by broadening their understanding of Odisha’s multifaceted identity and reinforcing their commitment to nation-building through voluntary service.