The National Monument Authority (NMA) approved Odisha government's integrated development plan for Khandagiri and Udayagiri Jain heritage sites in Bhubaneswar at an estimated investment of Rs 52 crore. The state tourism department submitted the proposal on November 16, 2025; NMA issued No Objection Certificate on November 26, 2025. All works must be supervised by ASI Superintendent Archaeologist Bhubaneswar Circle and comply with ASI regulations, local building bye-laws, and statutory clearances. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida confirmed no construction will occur inside ASI-protected monument premises; all works outside protected areas per ASI norms and heritage conservation guidelines.

Key project components: organised parking facility and landscaped plaza near new ASI ticket counter; pedestrian-friendly queue management and entry gateway; underground or earth-beamed interpretation centre with exhibition galleries, audio-visual room, tourist facilities, souvenir shops, cafeteria; dedicated pedestrian walkway connecting Khandagiri and Udayagiri hills with seating, lighting, landscaping, heritage signage; upgrades beneath NH-16 flyover with pedestrian pathways, landscaped zones, vending kiosks, play areas, sit-out spaces, improved parking at Khandagiri Square; road upgrades on Khandagiri-Temple Road, Shankar Road, Khandagiri-Kolathia Road with improved pedestrian infrastructure, cyclist lanes, landscaping, façade enhancements.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra laid foundation stone for crematorium at Dumuduma. Proposed crematorium covers 1.58 acres with budget of Rs 4.60 crores. Facility designed to include spacious waiting hall, separate changing rooms for men and women, administrative block, water body, and state-of-the-art electrical/gas crematorium. Will be equipped with ramps and tactile signage for accessibility, parking area, security measures, and waste management system. Minister also inaugurated 22 traffic aid posts at Khandagiri with total cost of Rs 2.6 crore. Posts equipped with rest rooms, drinking water facilities, toilet facilities, and shaded rest areas for traffic personnel.