In a major step toward ensuring transparency and restoring public confidence in the management of Shree Jagannath Temple’s priceless treasures, Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan announced that a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the long-awaited Ratna Bhandar inventory will be finalized and released shortly.
This comes after the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee approved the proposal for a full inventory of jewellery and valuables stored in the newly refurbished Ratna Bhandar—marking Odisha’s most significant temple governance initiative in decades.
Harichandan: “Government will ensure a fully transparent, digitally recorded inventory”
Speaking to reporters, Harichandan emphasized that the State Government is treating the Ratna Bhandar inventory as a top-priority heritage and governance assignment.
“The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration will prepare the SOP and send it to the government for approval. Once approved, the inventory process will begin. The SOP will be released very soon,”
— Prithiviraj Harichandan, Law Minister
The Minister confirmed key features of the upcoming exercise:
✔ Digital documentation of every ornament and artefact
✔ Matching with the 1978 inventory report for accuracy
✔ Technical support from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
✔ A scientific, transparent, time-bound system—estimated 2 to 3 months
A Historic Process After 47 Years
The last full inventory of both chambers of the Ratna Bhandar was conducted in 1978 by a nine-member committee headed by then Governor BD Sharma.
Since then, no comprehensive scientific audit has been undertaken.
After decades of public demand, the Ratna Bhandar was opened in 2024 for restoration and structural assessment by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). With repairs now complete, the path is clear for a full-scale inventory.
A New Era of Accountability in Temple Governance
Minister Harichandan’s firm stance reflects the Majhi Government’s larger commitment to:
- Transparency in temple administration
- Protection of heritage assets
- Digitisation of cultural and religious records
- Strengthening legal and procedural oversight
Senior officials confirm that the inventory process will be completed before April next year, ensuring accuracy ahead of the annual Rath Yatra cycle.
A Clear Message of Assurance to Devotees Worldwide
With millions of devotees across India and abroad emotionally connected to Ratna Bhandar, the government’s proactive approach—led by Minister Harichandan—is being seen as a bold and reassuring step.
The Law Minister’s leadership in coordinating with SJTA, ASI, RBI, and the State Government highlights the Majhi administration’s focus on:
- Good governance
- Cultural sensitivity
- Accountability
- Public trust