Bhubaneswar: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will establish its new circle in Odisha's Puri, informed Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

"The ASI's decision to establish a new Circle headquartered at Puri for better protection and conservation of centrally protected monuments and heritage sites is a welcome one," tweeted Pradhan.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy for the decision ahead of President Droupadi Murmu's visit to Odisha.

"Odisha is a treasure trove of heritage, culture and magnificent architectural marvels. PM Narendra Modi is making dedicated efforts to immortalise our rich cultural heritage and restore our civilisational glory," he said.