Odisha CM Launches ‘Samarpan’ Digital Hundi for Jagannath Temple

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has unveiled a new secure online donation platform, allowing global devotees to contribute to the Puri shrine with ease and transparency.

PURI — In a major technological leap for religious administration, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi officially launched the "Samarpan" digital hundi platform on July 15, 2026. The initiative, unveiled on the eve of the world-famous Rath Yatra, is designed to provide a seamless, secure, and transparent bridge for millions of Lord Jagannath’s devotees worldwide to make offerings to the 12th-century Srimandir.

A Technological Bridge for Devotees

Developed through a collaboration between the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the Samarpan platform allows devotees in India and abroad to make donations directly from their homes. The system is integrated with the official Srimandir portal and is accessible via a dedicated web portal and mobile application.

The Chief Minister described the platform as more than just a digital tool, calling it a "sacred and transparent bridge" that connects the devotion of millions with the historic shrine. By digitizing the donation process, the government aims to enhance financial accountability and streamline the management of funds intended for temple upkeep and development.

User-Friendly Payment Options

To ensure accessibility, the government has implemented a versatile payment infrastructure within the Samarpan app. Devotees can log in using their mobile number and a One-Time Password (OTP) to make contributions via:

• Unified Payments Interface (UPI)

• Internet banking

• Debit and credit cards

• WhatsApp-based payments

The platform imposes no minimum or maximum limit on contributions, allowing individuals to donate any amount starting from Re 1 according to their capacity. Upon successful transaction, users receive an instant digital receipt, ensuring immediate confirmation of their contribution.

Quote Section

"Every rupee offered through this system will go towards the temple's development and upkeep," Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi stated during the inauguration. He further emphasized that the initiative reflects the government's commitment to "transparent, technology-driven, and citizen-centric governance."

Why It Matters

The introduction of Samarpan marks a significant shift in temple administration, moving away from traditional, cash-heavy donation methods toward a more accountable digital framework. For devotees, it provides a convenient and secure way to participate in temple support, especially for those unable to visit Puri in person. Furthermore, for those contributing to the temple's "Repair and Renovation" and "Corpus" funds, the platform allows for income tax benefits upon the submission of PAN details.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Platform Name: Samarpan Digital Hundi.

• Accessibility: Available globally via a dedicated web portal and mobile application.

• Payment Flexibility: Supports UPI, net banking, cards, and WhatsApp, with no minimum donation limit (starting from Re 1).

• Added Benefits: Features instant digital receipts and options for income tax exemptions on specific funds.

• Additional Services: The mobile app also provides temple ritual updates, announcements, and Bhakta Niwas room booking facilities.

FAQ

1. Who can use the Samarpan platform? Any devotee of Lord Jagannath, whether in India or abroad, can use the web portal or mobile application to make donations.

2. Are there any minimum donation requirements? No, there is no minimum or maximum limit; devotees can contribute any amount starting from Re 1.

3. Is the donation process secure? Yes, the platform was developed by the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) and is integrated with the official SJTA portal to ensure complete security and transparency.

4. Can I get a receipt for my donation? Yes, a digital receipt is generated instantly upon the successful completion of every transaction.

Official Sources

• Office of the Chief Minister, Odisha: Press releases regarding the launch and vision for the Samarpan initiative.

• Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA): Operational data regarding the integration of the digital hundi with temple services.

• Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC): Technical documentation regarding the development and security features of the digital platform.