Bhubaneswar, Jun 18: In a major push to promote reading habits and educational access in rural Odisha, eight new library-cum-reading rooms will be constructed across block headquarters under the Bhubaneswar parliamentary constituency, revealed Lok Sabha MP Aparajita Sarangi.

The initiative, aimed at nurturing a culture of learning among village children, will be implemented at a total cost of ₹4.24 crore.

Each of the eight libraries will be built at a cost of ₹53 lakh. Of this, ₹30 lakh will be sourced from the MP Local Area Development (MPLAD) fund, while the remaining ₹23 lakh will be drawn from various central and state government schemes. The decision was finalized after consultations with the Khordha district administration.

These libraries will house newspapers, magazines, and a wide range of academic books to support students and reading enthusiasts. The facilities are expected to serve as vital community learning hubs, especially for children in remote areas who lack access to quality educational resources.

In addition to the eight block-level libraries, 156 panchayats under Bhubaneswar block will also receive mini libraries, each constructed at a cost of ₹10 lakh. These grassroots-level libraries will be managed by local organizations and youth associations, ensuring community ownership and sustainability.

The project has already been launched in Khordha district and is expected to be replicated in other regions based on its success. Officials believe this initiative will not only improve literacy rates but also foster a more informed and empowered rural population.

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