Bhubaneswar, Feb. 4 -- The Odisha government today signed an MoU with Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi for establishment of a special centre for Odia studies at the prestigious institute.

The centre will be named after former Chief Minister and legendary leader Biju Patnaik, said an official.

Biju Patnaik Special Centre for Odia Studies at JNU will boost research in Odia, a classical language, and help preserve Odisha's cultural heritage, he added.

The state government will provide a one time-assistance of Rs 10 crore for establishment of the centre. The centre will start a master's programme for Odia studies. Besides, the centre will conduct studies on Biju Patnaik's leadership and governance, Jagannath culture and manuscripts...