 "Naveen seeks Rs 1,397 cr central assistance for Nabakalebara")
The state government is making elaborate arrangements for the momentous occasion which is expected to witness congregation of over five million pilgirims and tourists in Puri. The funds from the Government of India are needed for development works to be taken up for the festival, Patnaik pointed out in his letter to Montek Singh Ahluwalia, deputy chairman of the Planning Commission.
In his letter, the chief minister has dwelt on new infrastructure projects as well as strengthening of existing services and amenities needed for Nabakalebara, an important event in the ritual calendar of Puri Jagannath temple.
The grand ceremony calls for expansion of grid stations and distribution network for supply of electricity, augmentation of road network, establishment of healthcare and trauma centres and improvement of railway station.
“I seek your personal intervention for the support of the Planning Commission for this important religious and cultural event of eastern India,” Patnaik said in his letter to Ahluwaia.
Nabakalebara is an ancient ritual associated with the Jagannath temple when the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are replaced with a new set of idols. The last such ceremony was held in 1996.