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Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently advocated for a transformative shift in the approach of leading educational institutions such as Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). He emphasized the need for these esteemed institutions to embrace a multi-disciplinary paradigm, aligning their educational strategies with the National Education Policy of 2020.

At the inauguration of the Odisha Research Centre (ORC), a collaborative venture among various academic institutions, Minister Pradhan underscored the pivotal role of this center. It aims to delve into a wide array of research domains, delving into Odisha's rich tapestry encompassing history, culture, economics, and societal dynamics.

Highlighting the ORC's significance, especially as Odisha gears up for its centenary celebrations in 2036 and India approaches the 2047 independence centenary, Pradhan emphasized the need for a more diversified educational outlook in IITs and IIMs.

In his address to dignitaries, including Odisha Governor Raghubar Das and Chhattisgarh counterpart Biswa Bhusan Harichandan, Pradhan stressed the urgency of integrating a multi-faceted educational framework in line with the National Education Policy. This shift is fundamental to the evolution and progress of IITs and IIMs.

The ORC's overarching goal involves extensive research across multiple domains: art, culture, archaeology, literature, sociology, politics, agriculture, and technology. Pradhan specifically highlighted its focus on critical sectors such as semiconductors, rare earths, advanced minerals, and cutting-edge technologies.

Additionally, Pradhan elaborated on the strategic objectives of the ORC, emphasizing its role in formulating comprehensive developmental strategies for Odisha's progress while preserving the essence of the Odia language.

Collaborating with prominent institutions like the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Indian Knowledge Systems Division (Ministry of Education), IIM Sambalpur, IIT Kharagpur, and IIT Bhubaneswar, the ORC aims to pioneer innovative frameworks for exploring Odisha's heritage. This aligns with the multi-disciplinary approach outlined in the National Education Policy, promising a more diversified and enriched educational landscape.