Bhubaneswar, November 14: President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the historic Katak Baliyatra 2026 on November 24. The nine-day annual festival will continue till December 1.

According to Cuttack Collector Dattatreya Bhausaheb Shinde, the President will arrive at the Baliyatra ground by boat from the Silver City Boat Club. She will first inaugurate ‘Kataka in Kataka’ before formally declaring the festival open.

The state government has earmarked a total budget of Rs 17 crore for the grand event, of which Rs 10 crore will be provided by the state government. More than 1,800 stalls are expected to be set up at the fairground, reflecting the festival's rich cultural and commercial significance.

The district administration has initiated extensive preparations to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the festival. Special arrangements are being made for security, traffic regulation and disaster management to handle the anticipated large gathering of visitors.

In an effort to promote environmental sustainability, the administration has imposed a ban on plastic materials across the fairground. Cultural programmes will be organised on two stages, with priority being given to local artists to showcase their talent.

The administration has also identified 18 locations for parking facilities to ensure hassle-free movement of visitors and prevent traffic congestion during the nine-day festival.