Speaking at the concluding ceremony of the first World Odia Language Conference in Bhubaneswar, the chief minister said it would remain a milestone in the history of Odia language.

Naveen also released a bi-lingual coffee table book, titled “Odia- Journey of A Language, on the occasion. Conceptualised by chief advisor (special initiatives) R Balkrishnan, the book is written by eminent writers Subhranshu Panda and Pratik Pattnaik.

“The book mentions the journey of Odia language from its origin to its place in present digital age. It narrates the struggle of the language through various challenges till it got the recognition as a classical language of the country,” Panda said.

“The facts, data and pictures collected from more than 40 libraries and museums have found mention in the 250-page book. This is the first bi-lingual coffee table book of any Indian language,” he added.

Speaking at the meeting, chief advisor to the chief minister R Balkrishnan said the Sammilani will deliberate on past, present and future of Odia language. He sought the cooperation of linguists and litterateurs in this regard as such a conference is being held for the first time.

Sujata Rout Kartikeyan, secretary, Odia Lanuage, Literature and Culture department said the conference will be held as per the decision of the Culture Cabinet on the advice of the chief minister.

In its endeavour to promote Odia language, the government is taking steps to set up library in each panchayat, she said adding that the women, who have made commendable contribution to Odia literature and culture would be felicitated at the conference.

The linguists, litterateurs and classical dance exponents attending the meeting gave their suggestions on introducing ‘jhoti’ (rangoli) on Odia alphabets in educational institutions, popularising ancient literature, publishing textbooks on contemporary Odia literature, promoting child literature and translating books of other languages to Odia.

Culture department director Dilip Routray also spoke at the meeting.