Bhubaneswar : Utkal University, the oldest university in Odisha, will celebrate its 83rd Foundation Day on 27 November 2025, marking more than eight decades of academic service and institutional excellence. Established in 1943 through the efforts of eminent leaders such as Biswanath Das, Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Singh Deo, Pandit Nilakantha Das, and Pandit Godabarish Mishra, the university became the first centre for advanced learning in the newly created linguistic state. After the foundation stone was laid on June 30, 1943, the university started functioning under the Utkal University Act and was formally inaugurated on November 27 of the same year.
A major milestone came in 1958 when Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, laid the foundation stone of the Vani Vihar campus, spread over 400 acres along NH-16. Starting with just four departments, the university expanded under the leadership of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who inaugurated the Vani Vihar campus in 1963, paving the way for continuous growth.
Today, Utkal University stands as a leading institution with nine Centres of Excellence, one affiliated law college and multiple specialised units such as the School of Women’s Studies, Ambedkar Study Centre, Population Studies Centre, and the Directorate of Distance and Continuing Education (DDCE). With over 380 affiliated colleges, including 17 autonomous institutions, and about 4,500 students on campus (plus 2.7 lakh in affiliated institutions), the university remains a cornerstone of higher education in Odisha. Its theme song, “Tunga Sikhari Chula” by Godabarish Mishra, was adopted in 2016.
The university has earned a rare distinction with continuous two-time NAAC A+ accreditation. It is also the only university in Odisha to consistently appear among India’s top 100 universities, securing the 48th rank in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) India Rankings-2025 under the State Government Universities category.
Guided by a vision of creativity, ethics, and inclusive growth, the university supports talented students from SC, ST, minority, and economically weaker backgrounds. With strong support from the state and central governments, including funds from RUSA’s Excellence and Equity Scheme and the World Bank’s OHEPEE programme, Utkal University has enhanced both campus infrastructure and its outreach in rural Odisha through health and awareness camps.
The Centre for Innovation and Incubation (CII) remains a hub for research, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven growth. Ten RUSA-supported research centres and three World Bank-supported facilities highlight its expanding research ecosystem. Addition of 30 smart classrooms, modern hostels, a state-of-the-art e-library, and an advanced virtual tutorial lab have enriched the student experience. The Utkal Entrepreneurship and Career Hub (UECH), established in 2020, strengthens entrepreneurship and career development. Digitisation through e-office systems and collaborations with leading national and international institutions further enhance academic quality.
The university’s alumni have excelled globally, bringing distinction to their alma mater. Even as rapid technological change reshapes education, Utkal University remains committed to blending tradition with innovation, ensuring a bright future for higher education in Odisha.
Key Recent Achievements
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Achieved continuous two-time NAAC A+ accreditation and secured 48th rank in National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) India Rankings-2025 among State Government Universities.
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Strengthened holistic learning through wellness initiatives, psychologists’ appointments, and programmes for physical, mental, and spiritual development.
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Introduced the Venture Discovery Course in partnership with Northeastern University, Boston, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.
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Implemented reforms aligned with NEP 2020, alongside significant improvements in the academic and residential environment.
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Achieved notable success in the Smart India Hackathon 2024, organised by AICTE.
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Participated in NITI Aayog’s national study on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among Indian state universities.
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Expanded BARC Technology initiatives and promoted rural products through the campus-based Living Lab.
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Established a world-class Indoor Badminton Facility, with Utkal emerging as champions in the 3rd Odisha Inter-University Sports Meet 2025.
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Recognised as the Nodal Centre for the Odia Language Promotion Committee by Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, and successfully conducted workshops to create Odia-language textbooks across disciplines.
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Launched dynamic student communities such as the Research Club, Cultural Club and Environment Club, with plans underway for a School of Multidisciplinary Research.
Utkal University continues to uphold its rich heritage while embracing modern advancements, shaping the future of higher education for generations to come.
