New Delhi, Mar 15: A new digital initiative titled ‘Bahitie Sathitie’ was launched during Odisha Parba 2026 in the national capital to promote Odia literature and revive interest in reading among the younger generation.

The three-day cultural festival organised by Odia Samaj featured a special session called ‘Gyana Mandap’ on its third and final day. During the session, the digital programme focusing on Odia books was formally launched by the National Book Trust (NBT).

NBT has published several books in the Odia language over the years, and efforts are now underway to digitise these publications to make them more accessible to readers.

The event was attended by Prakash Sahu, CEO of Argus News, NBT Director Yuvraj Malik, Pallibani editor Ram Chandra Nath and Odia actor Abhishek Rath.

Speaking on the occasion, Prakash Sahu said that people today have very little time for traditional reading. By making books available through digital platforms, the initiative aims to encourage young readers to reconnect with literature.

The ‘Bahitie Sathitie’ programme will present books in a series format, providing details about the content, themes and significance of various works.

Explaining the objective of the initiative, Ram Chandra Nath said that knowledge is essential for progress and books remain the greatest source of learning. He added that society cannot move forward without knowledge, and books have always been humanity’s true companions.

The digital platform will feature both classic and contemporary Odia literature, including works of legendary writer Fakir Mohan Senapati along with books by modern authors. The initiative also aims to bring historical narratives and valuable literary content closer to the younger generation through digital media.