The Odisha government has decided to establish the proposed Odia University at 'Bakula Bana' in Satyabadi of Puri district.

A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting presided by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the State Secretariat. The Chief Minister directed the officials to ensure that not a single tree is felled for construction of the infrastructure at Bakula Bana. The Puri Collector has been asked to expedite necessary procedures for establishment of the university.

A release issued by the Chief Minister's Office said a single-storey building will be constructed with sandstones. An officer on special duty (OSD) will soon be appointed and the temporary office of the varsity will function from the Pantha Niwas at Satyabadi.

Earlier, the state government has announced a budgetary provision of Rs 10 crore for establishment of the university. At least 25 acres of land has been earmarked for the purpose.

The university will offer postgraduate courses in Odia language and literature. It will also facilitate research on literary criticism, the evolution of East Indian language scripts, historical scripts, archaeology and translation into and from Odia.

Five iconic leaders of Odisha, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, Pandit Krupasindhu Mishra, Acharya Harihar Das, Pandit Godavarish Mishra and Pandit Nilakantha Das had founded the unique education system at the Bakula Bana with students being taught close to nature.