Bhadrak’s iconic ‘Palua Ladu’ to be served during official meetings: District Collector

Bhadrak, May 20: In a significant move to promote local heritage, Bhadrak’s famous sweet delicacy, Palua Ladu, will soon be served as part of the official refreshment menu at government meetings across the district.

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Bhadrak Collector Dilip Routrai directed district officials on Monday to include the traditional sweet in the refreshment packs distributed during all district-level meetings. The instruction was issued to key administrative personnel, including the Additional District Magistrate, Chief Development Officer, Sub-Collector, Tehsildars, and Block Development Officers. Each was urged to ensure that at least one piece of Palua Ladu is included in the refreshments provided at meetings conducted by their respective departments.

This initiative is part of a wider effort to promote Palua Ladu as a symbol of Bhadrak’s cultural identity. The sweet, made primarily from arrowroot locally known as palua, is a cherished part of the region's cuisine. In line with this, the district administration is also pursuing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the delicacy.

Collector Routrai explained that serving Palua Ladu at official events would not only introduce its unique flavor to visitors and dignitaries but also help raise awareness and demand for the sweet, thereby benefiting local artisans and sweet makers.

“By incorporating Palua Ladu into our meeting refreshments, we can highlight Bhadrak’s rich culinary tradition while supporting the livelihoods of local producers,” said Routrai. He added that this initiative aligns with the broader goal of preserving and promoting Odia Asmita through traditional food and culture.