Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College (commonly known as MPC College) is a public autonomous college located in Baripada, Odisha, India. Established in 1948,it is one of the earliest higher education institutions in odisha, it is the cornerstone of higher education in the Mayurbhanj district. The college campus, spanning 330 acres at the foothills of Similipal Hills, features over 25,000 trees and maintains a unique ecological initiative of feeding local birds and bees through a special budget allocation.[1]
The college was established on July 12, 1948, during the post-independence period. The college owes its inception to the efforts of the popular ministry led by Sri Sarat Chandra Das, the then prime minister, and Maharaja Sri Pratap Chandra Bhanj Deo, the ruling chief of the princely state of Mayurbhanj.
Founding leadership:
Prime minister: Sri Sarat Chandra Das
Ruling chief: Maharaja Pratap Chandra Bhanj Deo of Mayurbhanj State
Year
Location
Significance
1948
MKC High School
Initial establishment
1956
Royal Edifice of Maharaja Pratap Chandra Bhanj Deo
The college's campus spans a vast area of 330 acres. While 267 acres were initially allocated for the establishment of Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College, an additional 63 acres were generously donated by Maharani Takat Kumari, further enhancing the institution's infrastructure and facilities.
Despite its historical significance and academic contributions, MPC Autonomous College has not been granted unitary university status. This lack of recognition limits its autonomy, access to funding, and scope for research and innovation, hindering its potential to emerge as a leading institution in the region.
The college faces challenges due to inadequate funding and delayed infrastructure development. Limited recruitment of faculty and slow administrative processes have further constrained its ability to meet growing academic demands and modernize facilities. Stakeholders urge greater support from the government to address these issues and realize the institution’s full potential.
