Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The Odisha Darshan Programme–2026 was launched on Wednesday, bringing together nearly 260 National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers from across the state for a four-day educational and cultural tour. Organised by the State NSS unit in association with the Department of Higher Education, the initiative seeks to provide participants with firsthand exposure to Odisha’s major tourist destinations, ancient temples, historic monuments and rich cultural heritage. The itinerary also features visits to leading universities and colleges, offering volunteers insight into the state’s academic ecosystem alongside its cultural legacy.
The programme commenced this morning with a ceremonial flag-off at Red Cross Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, attended by senior officials including Director of Higher Education Kali Prasanna Mahapatra, Deputy Secretary Ramesh Chandra Behera and NSS Regional Director Sarita Patel.
Speaking on the occasion, Mahapatra underscored the importance of the programme in deepening young volunteers’ connection with Odisha’s glorious history, art, heritage and traditions. He noted that exposure to the state’s diverse social and cultural settings would better equip NSS volunteers to contribute meaningfully to society in the future.
Scheduled from January 28 to 31, the tour aims to motivate participants—many of whom are actively engaged in grassroots service—by enhancing their understanding of Odisha’s diverse identity and strengthening their resolve towards nation-building through voluntary service.
