The inventory work at Puri Jagannath temple's 'Ratna Bhandar' was perfect, matching the 1978 list according to an official.

The inventory work for the Ratna Bhandar of Puri Jagannath Temple has been going on for the past 11 days, and according to a senior official, everything is going smoothly. The chief administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Arabinda Padhee, shared that the jewellery and valuables inside the treasury are perfectly aligned with the list from 1978. Padhee, who is an IAS officer, has been closely monitoring the process since it began on March 25.

This inventory work is taking place after a gap of 48 years, making it an important and significant event. Padhee also mentioned that the entire process is being closely monitored through CCTV and videography. He further explained that all authorized individuals undergo strict security checks before and after entering the Ratna Bhandar.

This is done to ensure the safety and integrity of the items inside. The process is being carried out with utmost care and adherence to the Standard Operating Procedure approved by the Odisha government. To maintain transparency, all the valuables are being digitally documented using advanced 3D mapping techniques, along with high-definition photography and videography.

When asked about the tentative completion date, Padhee mentioned that accuracy and transparency are the top priorities, and they are not in a rush to finish the process. In 1978, the inventory work took 72 days, but this time, with the help of gemologists and technology, it is being done more accurately and efficiently. Padhee also shared that a wide variety of stones are attached to the valuable items, and they are being carefully inspected.

The next inventory work is scheduled for May 19, followed by May 21, 23, 26, 28, 29, and 30, as per the decision. All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth conduct of rituals and darshan for devotees during the inventory work inside the Ratna Bhandar. Padhee also mentioned that for security reasons, devotees can only have darshan from the 'Bahara Katha'.

This decision has been made to ensure the safety of the items during the inventory process. This event has been closely followed and reported by Orissa POST, which is considered the No.1 English daily in Odisha.