MDSW Orissa01

Orissa Review * May - 2006
Mineral Potential of Orissa State :

A Kaleidoscopic Review
Rakesh Kumar Satapathy
Shreerup Goswami
Orissa, a major state of India has enormous Occurrences

mineral potential and is rich in mineral resources. The main Bauxite deposits of Orissa are
Many of the minerals are known to be in abandon associated with the Eastern Ghats Super Group
supply, while many are least known in this state. of rocks and form the major component of the
Orissa produces enormous minerals including non- East Coast Bauxite (ECB) deposits. All the East
metallic, metallic and fuel minerals. Orissa stood Coast Bauxite cappings over Khondalite in Orissa
one of major producer of Chromite, Nickel, Iron, sector e.g., Ballada, Maliparbat, Panchpatmali,
Manganese, Tin, Graphite, Bauxite, Lead and Zinc Kodingamali, Karnapadikonda, Bapulimali,
in India. Among the fuel minerals, coal of Ib-River Sijimali, Lanjigarh etc. of Koraput and Kalahandi
and Talcher coalfields continues to play a districts occur in a single planation surface (
dominant role among the domestic energy +900m above MSL ).
resources in this state. In terms of geographical Bauxite caps the Gandharmardan plateau
distribution of mineral resources of India, about over Khondalite on the Border of Bolangir-
10-14 % of mineral production comes from the Sambalpur districts. It occurs at an elevation of
state of Orissa. Let us discuss the mineral potential 940-1000 above MSL.
of the state one by one briefly.
Bauxite occurs in the Kandhamal hills
BAUXITE ORE overlying the Vindhyan shale at an elevation of
960m above MSL.
Introduction
Small and isolated bauxite cappings occur
Bauxite is a heterogeneous ore of
over BIF (shale) formation at elevations of 610-
aluminium. It is derived from Khondalite and
671m above MSL around Kusumdihi in
Charnockite consists of Gibbsite, Goethite and Sundargarh District.
Kaolinite in varying proportion with some Garnet,
Hematite, and Ilmenite as accessory minerals. Bauxite with intercalated laterite caps over
metavolcanics on the flat-topped hill namely
Although Bauxite is the main source of Dholkata Pahar and Kanjipani range of Keonjhar
aluminium, it is the second abundant metal element District. These areas range from 727 to 848m
in the earth's crust after silicon. Bauxite is mined above MSL with intervening valleys around 600m
for production of alumina by the Bayer's process. above MSL.
1
All the hill ranges west of Nawana and east The major parts of the Talcher and Ib-River
of Similipal Garh and Bakua of Similipal Complex Coalfields are covered by the Talchir, Karharbari,
(Mayurbhanj), laterites are observed around Barakar, Barren Measures, Lower Kamthi
1000m above MSL (Das and Mohanty, 1998). (Raniganj) and Upper Kamthi sediments. Among
COAL them only Barakar, Karharbari and to some extent
Lower Kamthi (Raniganj) sediments are
Introduction: coaliferous (Manjrekar et al, 1998).
Out of 57 Gondwana and 14 tertiary CHINA CLAY
coalfields considered for the national inventory
of coal, Orissa state has only two. They are Ib- Introduction:
River coalfield and Talcher Coalfield. Yet its share China clay is also a clay like material
in the reserve so far established in the country comprising mostly mineral Kaolinite (Al2O3,
amounts to 23.6%. 2SiO2, 2H20) where A12O3, SiO2 and H2O%
Occurrences: are 39.5%, 46.56% and 13.94% respectively. It
has a specific gravity of 2.6 and a fusion point of
The Ib-River Coalfield is named after a 1.785°C.
tributary of the Mahanadi. The coalfield is located
in the southeastern part of Mahanadi Master Basin Kaolin deposit s have been for med by
and occupies an area 1460 sq. km. The coalfield decomposition of feldspathic granite. Kaolin
is bounded by latitudes 21030' and 22°14'N and occurs in form of pockets or lenses within the
longitudes 83°32' and 84°10'E. It covers parts main mass of granite.
of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda and Sambalpur Occurrences:
districts. It embraces the Hingir Sub- basin in the China clay is found to occur in a long belt
north and the Rampur Sub-basin in the south. stretching from southern Singhbhum to
Coalfields Latitude Longitude Districts Basinal area
in sq. Km.
Ib-River 21°31' 83°32' Jharsuguda, 1460
Coalfield 22°14' 84°10' Sundargarh & Sambalpur
Talcher 20°50' 84°09' Dhenkanal, Angul & 1813
Coalfield 21°15' 85°33' Sambalpur
The Talcher Coalfield constitutes the Mayurbhanj Granite belt. Badampahar-Joshipur,
southeastern most member of the Lower Karanjia- Ramchandrapur belt with a number of
Gondwana Mahanadi Master Basin and occupies deposits on either side of NH-6 is the most
an area of over 1813 sq km. The coalfield is important china clay producing area of the state.
bounded by latitudes 20°50' and 21°15' N and
longitudes 84°09' and 85° 33' E. This basin mainly Besides these, there are a few occurrences
occupies the Brahmani River Valley. It covers in Keonjhar, Sambalpur, Koraput, Sundargarh
parts of Dhenkanal and Angu1 districts along with and Dhenkanal districts.
a small portion of the adjoining Sambalpur The important deposits in Mayurbhanj
District. District are found near Joshipur, Dumuria, Jamba,
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Kadodiha, Jamkeswar and Thakurmunda. The NICKEL ORE

china clay found in Joshipur area of the Maurbhanj Annual consumption of nickel in the country
District is pale cream to yellow in colour is about 15000 tonnes and almost the entire
(Mohanty, 1998). quantity is met through imports. Hence Sukinda
CHROMITE ultramafic complex, the only indigenous resources
of Nickel ore of India, should be utilized.
Introduction:-
The Sukinda ultramafic body is stratiform
Chromium is indispensable for industrial in nature and comprises inter-layered nickel and
complexes including aerospace, steel and special chrome rich rocks (dunite-peridotite and
alloys. Chromite is the only economic source of orthopyroxenite). The serpentinised dunite-
chromium. Chromite belongs to the spinel group peridotite members have been subjected to intense
and has the basic formula R++R2+++O4, where chemical weathering resulting in the formation of
R++=Mg, Fe with traces of Mn and Ni and a nickel rich limonite cover. Thus the lateritic nickel
R+++=Cr, AI, Fe with traces of Ti and V. It has ore is of secondary origin (Sahoo, 1998).
five major components viz., MgO, FeO, Cr2O3, PLATINUM GROUP OF ELEMENTS
Al2O3 and Fe2O3, whose proportions are greatly Platinum Group of Elements i.e. Platinum
controlled by the composition of the magma from (Pt), Palladium (Pd), Rhodium (Rh), Ruthenium
which the primary silicates and chrome spinel (Ru), Osmium (Os) and Iridium (Ir) are the rarest
crystallized. Pure chromite contains 67.9% by of precious metals in the earth's crust. In India,
weight of Chromic Oxide (Cr2O3) or 46.5% by only a minor amount of Palladium is recovered as
weight of Chromium. a byproduct from Singhbhum Copper belt,
Jharkhand. Besides, no other Platinum Group
Occurrence :- In Orissa chromites are confined Elements mine production is known in India.
to three areas.
Moreover, on the basis of geological
(a) Boula-Nuasahi in Keonjhar district. The criteria such as rock association, age, tectonic
chromite deposits occur at and around setting, depositional environment, geochemical
Bidyadharpur barrage, Nuasahi and Agarpara. association and abundances, the principal terrains
(b) Sukinda in Jajpur district. The main deposits for identification and delineation of Platinum
targets are: 1. Baula-Nuasahi, Keonjhar District
of Chromite and Nickel of Sukinda are present
2. Sukinda area, Jajpur District, 3. Singhbhum-
in the area Kamardah, Saruabil, Kaliapani,
Orissa Craton and 4.Amjori Hill, Keonjhar
Kathpal, Maruabil, Bhimtangar etc. District (Mukherjee, 1998).
(c) Bhalukasuni in Balasore district. The main IRON ORE
deposits of this area are Bhalukasuni village of
Introduction:
Nilgiri Sub-division.
Iron is a very important element comprising
(d) In Similipal ultramafic complex of Mayurbhanj
about 5% of the earth's crust. It is rarely found in
District, probable reserve of 27 million tonnes of native condition except in the meteorites and
laterite Nickel ore has been estimated by GSI eruptive rocks in association with Cobalt and
(Sahoo, 1998). Nickel.
3
The source minerals from which iron is being (b) Ib-River Coalfield :- The occurrences of this
extracted on commercial scale are only a few, area have been recorded near Jurabaga, Darlipali,
like Hematite, Magnetite, Goethite, Siderite. Rampur, Kuropal, Bariapahar, Khinda, Lukopali,
Occurrence: Kulda, Siarmal etc.
The iron ore deposits of the state occur in (c) Athgarh Basin :- Clays of Talabasta area
five distinct zones. belongs to Athgarh formation of upper Gondwana
(a) Bonai (Sundargarh District) Kendujhar of Cuttack district (Nanda and Bhol, 1998).
(Keonjhar District) Bett BASE METAL DEPOSITS
(b) Gandhamardhan of Keonjhar District. Introduction:-
(c) Tomka- Daitari of Jajpur District. Though Orissa is not a rich state in terms
(d) Gorumahisani-Badampahar of Mayurbhanj of the base metal ore deposits (Cu, Pb and Zn),
District. it has three small deposits to its credit, at various
(e) Hirapur of Nawarangpur District stages of exploration and development.
(Mohanty, 1998). Occurrences: -
FIRECLAY There are three occurrences of base metal
Introduction:- deposits in Orissa.
The term fireclay has been commonly (a) Adash Copper ore deposits :- It belongs to
applied to refractory clays, which can withstand Sambalpur district. The copper prospect
of 1500°C or higher temperature. It is basically (21°23'05"latitude 84°37'45") is situated at a
Kaolinite. distance of 120 km from Sambalpur Railway
On the basis of plasticity, fireclay is Station and can also be approached from Reamal
classified as plastic, semiplastic and non-plastic. on the Deogarh -Angul NH-6, 30km. Here
An important parameter of fireclay in Graphite is produced as co-product.
refractoriness expressed in terms of pyrometric
(b) Kesarpur Copper deposits: -The villages of
cone equivalent (PCE).
Mayurbhanj like Kesarpur, Dudhiasal and
Occurrence :- Madansahi encompassing the copper ore deposit
In Orissa fireclay are confined to three are located between latitudes 22°04' and longitude
geographical belts. 22°07'. The chief minerals of the ore are pyrite,
(a) Talcher Coalfield in Dhenkanal and pyrhotite and chalcopyrite, with minor amount of
Angul :- Nickel and Molybdenum.
In Talcher Coalfield, fireclay has been (c) Sargipalli Lead ore deposits:- Sargipalli
encountered in the following locations. deposit lies between the village Lokdega (22°02'
: 83°55') and Bharatpur (22°03' : 83°56') in
* Jagannath Colliery
Sundargarh district. The common primary
* South Balanda Colliery
* Near Kaniha Village minerals of the deposits are galena, chalcopyrite
* Near Ghantikhal Village and sphalerite (Patnaik et al, 1998).
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GRAPHITE Girida of Dhenkanal and Angul districts (Mishra

et al, 1998).
Introduction:-
MANGANESE ORE
Natural graphite is an allotrope of elemental
carbon, which crystalises in the hexagonal system. Introduction:
It is a soft and opaque black mineral with a It was recognised as an element in 1774
metallic luster, greasy feel, hardness of 1to2 in by Swedish chemist Scheele, whose fellow
Moh's scale, specific gravity of 2.09 to 2.93. countryman, Ghan isolated the metal in the same
Occurrence :- year. The average crustal abundance of
manganese is slightly less than 1% (950 PPM).
The major graphite zone of Orissa is
coincident with the migmatised quartz- garnet - Manganese deposits are widespread in the
sillimanite - graphite schists of khondalite suite and world's land areas. The common primary minerals
its contact with medium -grained granite gneiss. of Manganese deposits of Orissa are pyrolusite,
The important graphite belts of the state are - Rhodonite, Manganite, Jacobsite and
Psilomelane.
(a) Sargipali belt :-(21000'-22°22':83°15'-83°40')
Occurrence:
Sargipali belt contains more than 150
occurrences, which belongs to the deposits of Manganese ore deposits of Orissa occur
Sargipali, Dangachancha, Darhamunda, in three distinct geological set-up
Sapmuna, Rengali, Mohanilah, Raju-Nagphena (a) Bonai-Keonjhar :- Bonai-Keonjhar belt
etc of Bargarh, Bolangir and Kalahandi districts. constitutes the most important manganese ore
(b)Titilagarh belt: (20006'-21024' :83°00'-83°45') producing region of the country.
Titilagarh belt contains more than 120 (b) South Orissa:-The manganese ore deposits
occurrences which belongs to the deposits of of south Orissa comprising parts of Rayagada,
Titilagarh,Boroni, Malisira, Singjharan, Loitora of Kalahandi and Bolangir districts are associated
Bolangir and Kalahandi districts. with Khondalite suit of rocks belonging to the
Eastern Ghats Super Group.
(c) Tumudibandh belt: (18°45'-20°00':83°00'-
83°45') (c) Ghoriajhor area of Sundargarh District -
Manganese bearing gondite of Ghoriajhor
Tumudibandh belt contains more than 50
formation is the youngest horizon occurring in the
occurrences, which belongs to the deposits of
core of Gangpur synclinoriun and confined to the
Tumudibandh, Lakhajorna, Palur, Raisil,
central part of the Gangpur group of meta-
Ambaguda of Phulbani, Rayagada and Gajapati
sedimentaries (Sarangi and Mohanty, 1998).
districts.
VANADIUM
(d) Dandatopa belt:-(20°37'-21000' : 84°15'-
84°45') Introduction :-
Dandatopa belt contains more then 22 Vanadium is an important alloying element.
occurrences, which belongs to the deposits of Addition of small amount often less than 0.1% to
Dandatopa, Adeswar, Kamalpur, Akharkata and steel and cast iron can significantly increase their
5
strength, toughness and ductility. In Orissa Occurrence :-

vanadium is confined to the by-product sludge of The resources of beach sand mineral in
Alumina plants. India are confined to the states of Kerala,
Magnetite associated with gabbro- Tamilnadu, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and
anorthosite suite of rocks contain Vanadium and Maharastra. In Orissa, Atomic Minerals Division
Titanium, occur at several locations in Mayurbhanj has explored a stretch of about 50 km from south
District. Vanadium bearing magnetites had also of Mahanadi mouth to Orissa-Andhra Pradesh
been recorded near Boula in Keonjhar district Border and identified a number of potential
and Godasahi and Rangamatia in Balasore district. deposits ranging in grade from 5% to 30% heavy
The Magnetite and Ilmenite form the bulk mineral. Ganjam coast is most important from the
composition of the ore. The mineral Coulsonite point of view of reserve and grade. The Indian
(FeV)3O4, is responsible for the vanadium content Rare Earths Limited (IREL) leasehold extends for
of the ore. a length of 18 kms along Chhatrapur coast
Occurrences :- between Rusikulya River confluence in the NE
and Gopalpur on the south-west. The different
In Orissa Vanadium bearing magnetite is confined identified blocks o f this deposit are
to five geographical belts. Pedalaxmipuram- Ramayapatna, Ramayapatna-
a) Rairangpur -Bisoi :-It includes deposits at Markandi, Niladripur- Kantiagarh, NE of
Kumardubi, Betjharan, Amdabeda, Gargari, Kantiagarh, East of Jhatiapadar, SE of Arunpur
Kunjakocha, Bhangapahar, Hatichar. (Siddiqui, 1998).
b) Bisoi -Joshipur :-It includes deposits at DIMENSION AND DECORATIVE
Mayurbeka, Kesham, Dhulabeda, Sialnoi, STONES
Bariadihi, Kundabari. Introduction :
c) Baripada -Podadiha :-It includes deposits at Any natural stone irrespect ive of
Bahalda, Andipur, Chitrabania. composition and origin, which can be cut, sized
d) Rangamatia (Betei) Godasahi :-Deposits at and shaped to suit the fancy and specification of
Rangamatia and Godasahi. the builders, designers and architects are marketed
as Dimension stones. The various rocks, which
e) Nausahi -Boula :-Deposits at Nausahi and
are quarried as dimension stones, include granite,
Baula (Nayak and Das, 1998).
marble, sandstone, limestone, slate, laterite and
BEACH SAND MINERALS khondalite.
Introduction :- Granite:
The term "Beach Sand Minerals" also called The suitability of granites for utilization as
Heavy minerals is usually associated with a group dimension stones depends to a large extent on
of industrial minerals comprising mainly Ilmenite, their physical, chemical and mineralogical
Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Garnet and Sillimanite. properties. The dimension stones under the
The major gangue mineral in the beach sand "Granite" category can be broadly divided into
deposits is quartz. The specifications of these two types viz., acidic (composed of quartz,
minerals are given in the Table 1. orthoclase, perthite, biotite, muscovite, garnet etc)
6
and basic rocks ( composed dominantly of clino- Khondalite :

pyroxene and plagioclase ).
Khondalites are a typical constituent of the
Marble: East ern Ghats. It is quartz feldspathic
The term Marble is derived from latin word garnetiferous sillimanite schist/gneiss. These have
"Maarmor" which itself comes from Greek root, been used for construction of temples and are
meaning a shining stone. It is the recrystallised presently being used in the form of tiles for exterior
limestone. Commercially, marble is crystalline decoration and also for sculptural purposes.
rock composed of calcite, dolomite or serpentine, Occurrences :-
which can take polish.
In Orissa, the Archeans which constitute
Sand stone:- about two-third of the landmass of the state host
Sand stone has been used in construction, a variety of dimension stones like Granite,
rough slabs, tiles etc. The cementing material of Khondalite etc. In particular, the following
these sedimentary rocks determines the degree geological terrains are important.
of compaction, colour and thus ultimately the a) Chhotnagpur -Singhbhum- Bonai :- Granites
quality of these stones as dimension stones. The and gneisses of many types, dolerite, anorthosite,
Vindhyan formations constitute an excellent
gabbro etc.
storehouse of this category.
b) Eastern Ghats-Charnockite, khondalite,
Lime stone :
leptynite, anorthosite, pyroxene granulite,
The limestones, generally used as dimension nepheline, syenite etc. (Sarangi, 1998).
stones, comprise dolomitic limestone which are
TIN ORE
usually hard, argillaceous and siliceous in nature.
The state of Orissa, though a potential store house Introduction :-
of limestone has yet no record of utilization of this Tin is the major ingredient of solder and
material as dimension stone. tinplate. Generally it is not used in its pure form.
Slate : Mostly it is used as either alloyed with another
The metamorphism of shales under metal or coated upon another metal. Cassiterite
pressure produce slates, which are characterized (SnO2) is the only mineral of commercial
by presence of close set planes along which they importance as a source of tin, which contain
can be easily split into sheets. 78.6% of tin and 21.4% of oxygen. Usually it is
dark brown or black in colour with an adamantine
Laterite :
luster. Cassiterite is a high temperature product
It is a porous, pitted and clay like rock with of magmatic crystallization. It has a specific gravity
a hard limonitic protective crust containing a large of 7. The most of the World's tin is produced
quantity of iron in form of red and yellow ochre. from placer deposits and richest placers are found
In Orissa, these are used for building purpose as in stream deposits. In India tin occurrences are
substitute of bricks in the districts of Cuttack, confined to Bastar region of Chhattisgarh State
Nayagarh, Khurda, Puri and Ganjam. and Malkangiri District of Orissa.
7
Occurrences :- 1. Eastern Ghats Granulite belt.

a) Malkangiri District is the main source/ 2. High grade supra-crustal rocks.
reservoir of tin ore in Orissa. Occurrence of tin 3. Mafic and ultramafic complexes.
(Cassiterites) was first located is Mundaguda-
Salimi area of Malkangiri District by the State 4. Alkali syenite.
Directorate of Mining and Geology during 1974. 5. Quaternary sediments and gravel beds.
The area surrounded by Bhimsen River in the west,
Sarangpalli village in the east, Kolab river flowing The gemstones and their associated rocks
westwards in the south, Lokti and Tulsidongar in and the location in the state are presented in the
the north. Tables 3, 4 (Mishra and Mohanty, 1998).
b) Confluence of Ong and Mahanadi :- LIMESTONE AND DOLOMITE

Pegmatites and vein quartz emplaced in granitoid Introduction :-
foliation contain tin values of up to 0.5%.
Limestone is a calcareous sedimentary
c) Confluence of Tel and Mahanadi :-Pegmatites rock composed of mineral calcite (CaCo3), which
within the granite have gemstones along with tin, on calcination yields lime (CaO) for a wide range
tungsten in dispersed manner . of industrial uses. In its purest form, limestone
d) The area in between Amuda and Manmunda; should contain 56% CaO and 44% CO2.
Bamunda and Karunapalli of Boudh District are Dolomite is a double carbonate of calcium
also bearing the pegmatites which contain tin (Sn) and magnesium containing 30.4% CaO, 21.7%
along with Nb, Ta and W (Mohapatra and Mishra, MgO & 47.9% CO2 in its purest form. Both
1998). limestone and dolomite also contain silica, alumina,
GEM STONES iron oxides, alkalies, Phosphorous, Sulphur etc.
Introduction :- Occurrence :-
The stones having the qualities like natural Orissa has vast resources of limestone
origin, beauty, durability, uniqueness, rarity, occurring in three distinct geological settings,
hardness and chemical resistance are namely Gangpur group, Vindhya and Eastern
characterised as gemstones. Diamond because Ghats, where as dolomite is mostly confined to
of high value is treated as an exclusive species of Gangpur and Vindhyan Groups. These deposits
gemstone. The gemstones whose occurrence have are confined to following districts.
been recorded in Orissa include emerald, District Areas
aquamarine, heliodor, chrysoberyl, alexandrite,
tourmaline, ruby, sapphire, cat's eye, zircon, topaz, Sundargarh Biramitrapur, Lanjiberna, Hatibari,
moonstone, quartz, garnet etc. Properties and Purnapani, Gatitangar, Gomardih.
characteristics of few common gemstones are Bargad Dungri, Banjipali, Jampali.
given in Table 2.
Koraput Umpavalli, Tummiguda (Sunki
Occurrence :- valley).
The gemstone occurrences of Orissa are Malkangiri Kottameta, Nandiveda, Uskalvagu
localised in (Rath and Rath, 1998).
8
GOLD Kyanite, Sillimanite & Andalusite :-

Introduction and Probable Occurrence:- Introduction: These are anhydrous aluminum
Based on the existing concepts of space- silicate minerals. This group of minerals is believed
time relationship of various gold deposits all over to be products of anhydrous metamorphism of
the globe and more importantly on empirical argillaceous sedimentary rocks.
geological criteria such as rock association, age, Occurrences: Refractory grade kyanite confined
tectonic setting, depositional environment, to Panijia in Mayurbhanj District. Occurrence of
geochemical association and abundances, the quartz bearing kyanite are confined to
principal terrains for identification and delineation Magarmuhan, Torodanali, Jhilli, Golagadia,
of gold targets are: Paliahara, Kamakhyanagar of Angul & Dhenkanal
1.Badampahar -Gorumahisani belt. 2. Tomka- districts.
Daitari to further north-west upto south of Jamda-
Soap Stone, Steatite and Talc :-
Koira valley, 3. Possible Archean greenstone in
Bonai craton, 4. Bengpal Group, granitoids and Introduction: These are soft hydrous magnesium
the contact zone with Eastern Ghat granulite, and silicate with chemical composition 3MgO4 SiO2
5. Early Proterozoic successions of Gangpur / H2O.
Singhbhum Group and basal Dhanjori
Occurrence :-These deposits are confined to
(Mukherjee, 1998).
Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Ganjam &
OTHER MINERALS Dhenkanal districts. Mayurbhanj district is
The other minerals and ores which occur contributing about 95% of the total production.
in the state and some of which are being mined Quartz & Quartzite
include pyrophyllite, quartz, quartzite, kyanite and
steatite etc. Introduction: The use of quartz and quartzite
depend upon its silica content. Quartzite and
Pyrophyllite quartz are used in the manufacture of silicon
Introduction :- refractories, as a flux in iron and steel and ferroalloy
It is a hydrous aluminium silicate used industries, abrasive industry and also for
mainly in refractories making. Pyrophyllite occurs manufacture of silicon alloys, glass and sodium
in the form of quartz-pyrophyllite schist associated silicate.
with granite and also quartz reef. Occurrences:-Generally these are found in
Occurrences :- almost all the districts of the state except in the
coastal planes (Mohanty, 1998).
The occurrences of the state are associated
with Singhbhum-Bonai granite. The major Conclusion:
deposits are Anjor, Balabhadrapur, Nitigotha, Now we doubt that the continuing
Madrangajodi, Roduan, Rampakot, Dalimpur of degradation of the natural environment by
Keonjhar District. Joshipur and Manada of exploring above- mentioned minerals poses one
Mayurbhanj and Lahunipada in Sundargarh
of the greatest challenges to modem societies. In
District.
particular all mining activities create a burden on
9
the environment although paradoxically at the same commence with exploration activities, extend
time the revenues gained from these activities through extraction and processing of minerals, and
create the basis for our well-being. Major may continue post- closure of the operation. The
problems include global warming, loss of social and environmental issues associated with
biodiversity, water and air pollution, releases of mining and mineral processing operations are both
persistent organic pollutants and other toxic highly significant and complex to manage. The
substances and land degradation. There is an fixed location of the mineralized zone of interest
intimate relationship between mine workers and imposes constraints on all aspects of mining
people of near by surroundings and the potential developments including the method of mining,
exposure to toxic substances, pollutants and location of mine facilities, requirements for new
wastes. Air pollution, surface water pollution,
infrastructure and services and the suitability of
ground water contamination, devegetation and
waste management or disposal methods. This in
defacing of landscape, subsidence of land,
turn profoundly influences the environmental,
occupational health hazards etc. are the major
social and health impacts of mining developments,
impact of mining leading to various environmental
as well as the economic viability of developing a
damages. Mining operations may be categorized
as either surface or underground. Surface mining given mineralized zone. The challenges with
may be broadly defined to encompass open pit, Environment Assessment of mining projects are
open cast, quarry, strip, dredging and placer twofold--- firstly, to ensure that environmental,
(hydraulic) mining. Underground methods include social and health costs are afforded adequate
pillar-and-stope, shrinkage stope, block caving consideration in determining the economic viability
and longwall mining. Most mining operations and acceptability of the project; and secondly to
(whether surface or underground) share a number ensure that adequate mitigation or protection
of common stages or activities, each of which have measures are incorporated into project design.
potentially adverse impacts on the natural This requires both effective environmental
environment, social and cultural conditions, or the legislations and enforcement by regulatory
health and safety of mine workers. institutions, and sound environmental management
Expansion within the mining and practices by private and public sector mine
metallurgical sector leads to the development and operators. In order to minimize the adverse
economic growth of our country. The products impacts of mining it is desirable to adopt eco-
of the sector (including metallic and non-metallic friendly mining technology. Restoration of mined
minerals, construction materials) are not only areas by re-vegetating them with appropriate
essential for construction activities and many plant species, stabilization of the mined lands,
industrial processes, but are also often a valuable gradual restoration of flora, prevention of toxic
source of foreign exchange earnings. However, drainage discharge and conforming to the
mining operations frequently involve a high degree standards of the air emissions are essential for
of environmental disturbance, which can extend minimizing environmental impacts of mining in such
well beyond the extent of mineralized areas. The a state like Orissa having enormous mineral
environmental impacts of a mining operation potential.
10
Table 1 :Specification of Beach Sand Minerals and their application (Siddiqui, 1998)
Mineral Chemical composition Specific Major applications
gravity
llmenite FeO.TiO2 4.67 Manufacture of titanium dioxide, production of
synthetic rutile and Ferro-titanium alloys.
Rutile TiO2 4.1 Coating of welding electrodes, titanium dioxide
pigment, production of titanium sponge and metal.
Zircon ZrO2SiO2 4.68 Foundries, ceramics and refract ories,
manufacture of Zirconium metals and chemicals.
Sillimanite Al2O3SiO2 3.24 Manufacture of high temperature refractories.
Garnet 3RO.R2O3.3SiO2 4.68 Manufacture of abrasives, for polishing glass/
T.V tubes, wood for sand blasting and water
filtration.
Monazite Phosphate of the Rare 5.10 Production of rare earth compounds, Thorium,
Earths with variable Uranium, Helium etc.
amounts of thorium.
Table 2 : Properties and characteristics of some common gemstones
(Mishra and Mohanty, 1998)
Name Composition Colour Moh's Specific Refractive
hardness gravity Index (RI)
Quartz
Amethyst Silica Purple 7.0 2.65 1.56
Beryl
Aquamarine Beryllium, Blue green to light blue 7.5-8.0 2.63-3.80 1.58
Aluminium,
silicate
Emerald -do- Green 7.5 2.63-3.80 1.58
Heliodor -do- Yellowish green 7.5 2.63-3.80 1.58
Corundum
Ruby Aluminium Rose to deep 9.0 3.95-4.10 1.78
oxide purplish red
Sapphire -do- Blue, Light Yellow 9.0 3.95-4.10 1.78
Diamond Carbon white, blue, white, pink 10.0 3.5 2.42
yellow, brown, green
11
Iolite Al, Mg silicate Gray, light or dark blue, 7-7.5 2.53-2.65 2.54
with Iron violet
Chrysoberyl
Alexandrite Beryllium Green by day and 8.5 3.5-3.84 1.75
aluminates red by artificial light
Cat's eye -do- Greenish to brownish 8.5 3.5-3.84 1.75
Feldspar
Moonstone Alkali White 6.0-6.5 2.77 1.52-l.54
aluminium silicate
Garnet Complex silicate Brown, black, yellow, 6.5-7.5 3.15-4.30 1.79-1.98
green, ruby red, orange
Topaz -do- White, blue, green 8.0 3.4-3.6 1.62
Tourmaline -do- All including mixed 7.0-7.5 2.98-3.20 1.63
Zircon Zirconium silicate White, blue, brown, 6.0-7.5 4.0-4.8 1.79-l.98
yellow, green
Table 3 : Gemstone and their associated rock (Mishra and Mohanty, 1998)
Name of the Gem Stone Host Rocks
1. Ruby and sapphire. a. Contact of pegmatite and ultramafic rocks.
b. High grade pelitic (kyanite-sillimanite) schists

c. Nepheline syenite
d.Cordierite-sillimanite-garnet schists and Para

gneisses.
2. Emerald and Aquamarine. Contact of beryl bearing pegmatite with ultramafic rocks.
3. Alexandrite and Chrysoberyl cat's eye. Pegmatites in Khondalite suite of rocks.
4. Rhodolite, almandine and uvarovite High-grade pelitic schists.

garnets; fibrolite cat's eye iolite.
5. Amethyst, topaz, aquamarine, heliodor, Pegmatite.

tounnaline, moonstone, labradorite,
microcline.
12
Table 4: Gemstones and their district wise location in Orissa, India

Location Gem stone
Angul District
Magarmuhan - Jhilli Nuagan Quartz, Garnet
Sambalpur District
Chabhati-Beldihi Aquamarine, heliodor
Bagdhapa- Tabloi Aquamarine, garnets
Meghpal-Ranchipada Garnet, green tourmaline, aquamarine
Deogarh District Hessonite
Jharsuguda District Green tourmaline
Bolangir District
Ghuchepali-Antarla Emerald, topaz, heliodor and aquamarine
Ghumsar-Dehli Chrysoberyl and Cat's eye
Muribahal- Tentelkhunti Orange, brown and yellow colour zircons, topaz and amethyst
Saraibahal-Suklimuri Green beryl, aquamarine, heliodor and amethyst.
Naktamunda-Siali Rhodolite garnets.
Subarnapur District
Badmal-Mursundi Greenish blue to sea blue aquamarine.
Binika-Sonepur Garnets, topaz, Cat's eye.
Boudh District
Boudh-Ramgarh Cat's eye, topaz, zircon, moonstone, agate, diamond.
Kantamal-Manmunda Garnets, topaz, iolite, tourmaline and diamond.
Kalahandi District
Jillingdhar-Hinjlibahal Ruby.
Orhabahala-Urharanga Iolite.
Ghatpara-Singiharan Hessonite garnet and zircon.
Sirjapali-Tundla Cat's eye.
Banjipadar-Sargiguda Blue opaque corundum, apatite, aquamarine.
Nawapada District
Sardhapur-Patialpada Blue iolite and fibrolite.
Katamal-Babebir-Amera Yellow sapphire.
Damjhar-Burhapara-Mantritarai Almandine garnets, iolite.
Rayagada District
Paikdakulguda-Hatamuniguda Cat's eye.
Irkubadi-Tarhama Sillimanite Cat's eye.
Karlaghati-Karanjgurha Chrysoberyl.
Phulbani District
Bargochha Tourmaline.
Belghar Cat's eye.
13
References: Nanda A K and Bhol B B1998. Fireclay. In, B.K.

Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral
Das J N and Mohanty R C 1998. Bauxite. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Mohanty (Ed) Geology and Mineral Resources and Allied Technologist, 214-219.
of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists and Allied
Technologist, 121-140. Nayak J C and Das J N 1998. Vanadium Ore. In, B.K.
Mohanty (Ed} Geology and Mineral Resources
Manjrekar V D, Chaudhury V and Gautam KVVS 1998. of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists and Allied
Coal. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Geology and Technologist, 357-368.
Mineral Resources of Orissa. Society of
Geoscientists and Allied Technologist, 179-203. Pattanaik S C, Ghosh S P and Das G 1998. Base Metals.
In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)~ Geology and Mineral
Mishra B P and Mohanty B K1998. Gemstones. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral and Allied Technologist, 113~120.
Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Rath B D and Rath R N1998. Limestone and Dolomite.
and Allied Technologist, 220-238.
In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Geology and Mineral
Mishra R N and Padhi R N 1998. Graphite. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral and Allied Technologist, 292-310.
Sahoo R K 1998. Chromite. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)-
Geology and Mineral Resources of Orissa.
Mohanty B K 1998. Iron Ore. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Society of Geoscien tists and Allied
Geology and Mineral Resources of Orissa. Technologist, 155-178.
Society of Geoscien tists and Allied
Sahoo R K 1998. Nickel Ore. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)-
Technologist, 269-291.
Mohanty B K 1998. China Clay. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Society of Geoscien tists and Allied
Society of Geoscien tists and Allied Sarangi S K 1998. Dimension and Decorative Stones.
Technologist, 148-154. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Geology and Mineral
Mohanty B K1998. Other Minerals. In, B.K. Mohanty Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
(Ed)- Geology and Mineral Resources of Orissa. and Allied Technologist, 204-213.
Society of Geoscien tists and Allied Sarangi S K and Mohanty B K 1998. Manganese Ore.
Mohapatra K S and Mishra R N. 1998. Tin Ore. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Resources ofOrissa. Society of Geoscientists Siddiqui A S 1998. Beach Sand Minerals. In, B.K.
and Allied Technologist, 347-356. Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral
Mukherjee M M 1998. Gold. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Geology and Mineral Resources of Orissa. and Allied Technologist, 141-147.
Mukherjee M M 1998. Platinum Group Elements. In,
B.K. Mohanty (Ed) Geology and Mineral Rakesh Kumar Satapathy and Shreerup Goswami are
Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists working in the P.G. Department of Environrnental
and Allied Technologist, 339-346. Science, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore.
14
Reminiscences
An Encounter with Flood of 1980

Gopinath Mohanty
It was raining cats and dogs for several days. In area and inflicted crop loss valued at Rs.21,000
that evening we were holding a farewell feast in million. Out of 3,820 Gram Panchayats covering
Cuttack Tahsil Office in honour of Sri J.A.Khan, 50,854 villages in all the 13 districts of the State,
ex-Tahasildar, Cuttack. Sri Arakhit Mallick, as many as 26,239 villages under 2,609 Gram
OAS(I), the then ADM of undivided Cuttack Panchayats have suffered crop loss exceeding 50
district and Sri Goura Govind Das, SDO, Cuttack percent and were declared as drought affected
Sadar were also among the invitees. The ADM area. A comprehensive drought relief programme
wanted to know if I had been drafted for flood has been taken up and it is still in operation. Now
duty. I said Yes but further added that I was not when the state is just in the process of recovering
in a position to move outside Cuttack due to my from the serious losses caused by the drought
pressing personal circumstances; as my wife was situation, Nature s Fury in shape of flood has
in an advanced stage of pregnancy at that time. I struck again.
had been transferred from Salepur Tahasil a
It came with the heavy rains in Madhya
fortnight back to join as Additional Land
Acquisition Officer in Cuttack Collectorate. I had Pradesh and the upper part of Hirakud reservoir.
shifted my family from Salepur and we were The first phase of flood occurred in the Mahanadi
staying in my in-law s house in the Cuttack town. system following heavy rains in the upper and
lower catchment areas of the river Mahanadi from
I was sad about this flood. My poor state 9th September 1980 causing breaches in the
Orissa has no respite from the ravages of natural embankments of the Luna and Rajua, the branches
calamities during the past decades. The economy of the River Mahanadi, it inundated low-lying
of the State has been caught in a vicious cycle of areas in Puri and Cuttack districts.
cyclone, drought, flood and tornado, visiting this
unfortunate land one after another almost every The situation worsened further by the
year as a matter of routine. The development of second phase of the flood which commenced with
the State has been severely retarded on account the depression in the Bay of Bengal on the 16th
of these natural calamities, which have been September. The cyclonic storm crossed the
inflicting heavy tolls of precious lives and property coastline of Orissa between Puri and Chhatrapur
time and again. Only a year back i.e., during and proceeded along the basin of Rusikulya and
1979-80 the state has faced an acute drought Vansadhara and reached the Mahanadi catchment
situation that affected more than half of its total area by the 17th September. The frightening
15
feature of this depression was that it intensified became alarming for the people of Cuttack town
aft er entering the landmass effecting who could not sleep in that dreadful night. They
extraordinarily heavy rains in the districts of were moving in groups. Local volunteers were
Ganjam, Koraput, Phulbani and Balangir and the assisting the district administration to stop seepage
areas around Raipur in Madhya Pradesh (present of water through river embankment constructed
Chhattisgarh). It led to unprecedented flood never by Markat Keshari at the behest of legendary
witnessed before in the river Vansadhara from the Baimundi, an illiterate farmer having profound
16th to the 18th of September and further foresight; that was more than 500 years back.
aggravated the flood situation in the Mahanadi
system from the 19th to the 24th September, I was one among them. I had been moving
1980. with Collector and SDO during the whole night.
Sri P.K. Hota, IAS was the Collector. He was
The cyclonic storm of the 16th September
young and dynamic. He was on his toes
that brought about heavy down pours both in the
throughout the night, monitoring the efforts made
upper and lower catchments of Hirakud reservoir
by the Engineering Department and the local
caused the level of the reservoir to rise rapidly
thereby substantially increasing the outflow. This residents. There was general euphoria of
led to unusually high flood in almost all the togetherness and community s involvement. I felt,
branches of river Mahanadi in the districts of if such sentiment had not have surfaced, there
Cuttack and Puri. The protective river would have been several breaches in the
embankments were breached at several places embankments wrecking havoc in Cuttack town.
submerging vast areas of cropped land and Thank God ! Cuttack town could be saved, but
marooning a large number of villages. The heavy there were several breaches in Jagatsinghpur sub-
rains also caused rivers and hill-streams in the division. As a result the floodwater started
districts of Kalahandi, Balangir, Balasore, receding near Cuttack town. The first breach
Phulbani, Sambalpur and Dhenkanal to rise very occurred at about 2 A.M. in the night.
high and wreck havoc in many areas in these
I came back to my house at about 4 A.M.
districts.
and took rest. The next day I went to the
Government had warned about the Collectorate by about 9 A.M. and found the
expected flood. The news was broadcasted Emergency Officer on his chair. The Collector was
through AIR and the district administration had also in his chamber. I sneaked into his room to
made all prior arrangements to meet the challenge. know what was going on. He was alone and
district-level officers had been drafted for looking at some papers. When I entered into his
deployment in strategic locations to meet the room he looked at me, thought for a moment and
eventualities prior to the incidence of flood. Every asked very courteously, if I could help him a little
one was apprehensive about the impending because, he was aware of my personal problem
danger.
and had been kind enough to exempt me from
Rains continued for over a week. Towards flood duty. I answered, Yes Sir . Then he said,
the evening of that fateful day its intensity was Army has already moved to Jagatsinghpur last
abated, but floodwaters came rushing in the night for undertaking relief and rescue operation.
Mahanadi and the Kathajodi Rivers. The situation But they could not take a bamboo truck with them.
16
You can go to them in a jeep along-with the a message that about one hundred fifty flood
bamboo truck and then come back to Cuttack. affected persons who were taking shelter in a
nearby telephone exchange in Mandasahi, a G.P.
Carrying out the order, I proceeded to
headquarters, have been washed away. If this
Jagatsinghpur and reached the SDO s Office at
news is found to be true, then we will not spare
11.30 A.M. Sri B.K. Das, SDO was well known
anybody . Then he struck his lathi on the floor
to me. Recently we were working in the same
with force.
station, Salipur where he was holding the post of
Consolidation Officer. After being promoted to Though SDO answered coolly that he
Junior Class (I) rank, he came to Jagatsinghpur would look into the matter it could not pacify the
as the SDO about two months back. He was crowd. There erupted a mass yelling. The
gem of a person, soft spoken and a fine gentleman. atmosphere was charged with tension and I
He was affectionate enough to treat me as his thought there could be a clash between the
younger brother and I had reciprocated by paying administration and the irate mob at any time.
him due respect. I was delighted to meet him and The SDO was desperate and helpless. I
let him know that I had come with the bamboo took a quick decision to come to his rescue. I
truck. had to act fast to handle the situation tactfully. I
I opened the door of his office chamber. immediately ventured to go to the backside of
He was sitting facing the door. He saw me and the SDO, lifted the telephone receiver and asked
smiled briefly. He was happy and welcoming me the exchange to connect me to Mandasahi
in his usual way. But he was not alone. The room telephone exchange. The operator tried but
was overcrowded with people; about twentyfive informed me after some time that there was no
of them, demanding for immediate rescue and response. I insisted that he should keep on trying
relief measures in the flood hit areas. More and till it was answered. Thank God, there came an
more people were coming in and no body was answer after a long gap. A feeble sound informed
leaving. The atmosphere was tense and noisy. that the ground floor of the telephone exchange
Every body was presenting his case forcefully, building had already been flooded. There was
and the SDO was listening patiently. He was at knee-deep water on the first floor, but every body
his wits end. was safe and he implored for rescuing them.
Cutting across the commotion I made my This SOS massage dampened the tension
way to him and informed him about the purpose inside the room and everybody looked at me with
of my visit. When I sought his permision to return, interest. This pushed me to the center stage where
he requested me to stay with him for some time. I I found myself acting and taking decisions in
could not leave this gentleman alone in this tense consultation with the SDO. The most important
situation that was going down from bad to worse decision was to go for rescue operation alongwith
with every passing moment. There was never the army who were sitting there idle since the last
ending flow of demanding visitors to his chamber. night. No order was communicated to them to
After sometime an angry man called Gunduri move anywhere.
appeared in the scene. He was middle-aged, There were several breaches at different
wearing a khaki half pant and holding a short lathi points and vast areas were inundated. The first
in his hand. He started shouting Sir, we have got breach that caused widespread havoc was near
17
Mandasahi. Local leaders were pressing hard for night time. Army men wanted to bring back their
deployment of army in their respective areas. boats, and I prevailed over them to keep those
But I decided that the army boat would go boats there as we were scheduled to start the
to the worst hit Mandasahi for rescue operation. rescue operation from early morning on the day
I would be supervising it. We were ready by 4 following.
PM. to start the rescue operation. All of us returned to our camp at about 8
When I came out and met the army people, P.M. I found the SDO still glued to his chair,
I found them hungry. They had not taken breakfast discussing with people. Then I came to the
or lunch, because nothing was practically available Inspection Bunglow and found Sri M.M.
in the local market. I managed to buy some bread Mohanty, OAS (I), ADM, Cuttack who was
and banana. On the way to the breach site we getting ready to return to Cuttack. He was
took bread and banana. We had to cover about camping there since the previous night to help the
15 km. to reach the site. I was stupefied when I SDO. He was going to apprise about the exact
saw the vast areas under inundation on one side situation to the Collector. After getting refreshed
of the river embankment and on the other side, I saw the SDO in his office and with his permission
vast stretches of green paddy fields. The army left for Cuttack by 9 P.M.
men jumped into action. Pulling out their boats I reached the Cuttack Collectorate around
from trucks they rushed to rescue villagers who 11 P.M. and found the Collector personally
had taken shelter on rooftops, trees or nearby counting the rice bags stocked in the Collectorate.
hillocks. Seeing me, he collected all information about
It was a moving sight. Many people were Jagatsingpur. At the same time, he asked me, how
there on the river embankment. Several families things could be made better there. I answered;
had come there previous night after getting warning Sir, Sri Das is a very good officer, but since he is
about the flood. Interestingly, we were not first to new to the sub-division, it would be better, if some
reach the marooned people. Relief workers from old officers who had the experience of working
a daily news paper were already there with relief in the subdivision could be sent there to help Sri
materials. Some of them had started rescuing the Das. I also suggested two names i.e. Sri K.C.
marooned people. A young lady in her early Patnaik OAS (I), working as Secretary, Greater
twenties came and implored me to send the army Cuttack Improvement Trust and Sri Chaitanya
boat to rescue her father who after leading his Prusty, working as Under Secretary at
family to the safety on the embankment had Bhubaneswar.
returned to his house to fetch some food materials. He thought over it and then rang up his
He could not come back as by that time water house to say that it would not be possible on his
level had increased. Nothing could be done. The part to come for the dinner. He politely told me
whole area was submerged. There was no visible to go home for dinner, and asked if I could be
sign of the man or his village. available to accompany him to Jagatsinghpur that
The dusk came followed by darkness. The night. I agreed and than came to my in-law s house
unfortunate survivors were struggling to keep their for dinner.
body and soul together inside the marooned area. When I returned at about 12 P.M., I found
It was not possible to continue the operation in the Collector sitting for his dinner there in the
18
Collectorate. In his company were Sri K.C. and requested me to stay back for some days to
Patnaik and Sri P.K. Senapati, IPS, the then SP, help the SDO. I then learnt that Sri K.C.Patnaik
Cuttack. We left the Collectorate at about 1 A.M. already had one stroke then and there. He too
in the night and halted in Nayabazar. There the asked the SDO to manage the crisis with courage
District Civil Supply Officer. Sri Ashutosh Das and dedication. He further added. I am leaving
was supervising loading of relief rice on the trucks. Gopi to assist you. Whatever he says, you just
After the loading was completed we left okay it and everything will be fine, That night I
Nayabazar at about 2.30 A.M. in the night along had to return to Cuttack to fetch my luggage.
with seven truckloads of rice. We reached Next day I reached Jagatsinghpur by 10
Jagatsinghpur SDO Office at about 4.30 A.M. in A.M. I picked up the command of relief and
the morning. rescue operations with the SDO in my side. I
We were ready by 6.30 A.M. Late systematically arranged shift duty and introduced
Basudev Mohapatra, the then Minister of the feed back system. Since the calamity was
Agriculture, who represented the Balikuda widespread and devastating, the State
Assembly Constituency arrived there by 7.00 Government acting upon Collecto r s
A.M. in the morning. We started distributing relief. recommendation deployed senior officers in the
rank of Jr. Class-1 and Sr. Class-1 to take charge
The matter went off smoothly. Suddenly of different Block areas. One Sr. Class-1 officer
some message was received about another was in charge of Biridi block. Sri K.K. Patnaik,
imminent breach at some point of the embankment, Ex-SDO, Jagatsinghpur and Under Secretary of
as there was seepage. Since no local officer was a Department was in charge of Balikuda block.
available I was asked to proceed to the site, Three senior officers were kept in charge of three
arrange sand bags to stop seepage. With the help worst affected blocks and all of them were
of Executive Engineer. Irrigation and I left by reporting to the SDO. I was coordinating their
11.30 A.M. Reaching the spot I did whatever I activities and handling their affairs creditably.
could. Then I went to Machhagaon to see the
conditions there. I was appalled to see the low Collector came again on regular visit after
lying land area inundated. The scene was 3/4 days, went to the affected pockets in a
awesome. It looked like a sea. I found a Revenue motorcycle, assessed the magnitude of loss,
Rest shed there, went into it, brushed my teeth, reviewed the relief operation and expressed his
took my bath and came out by 3.30 P.M. As satisfaction.
there was nothing to do, I came back to After about 4/5 days I went around the
Jagatsinghpur. Reaching there by 5 P.M., I found worst affected pockets in the company of a
Collector and other officers taking their lunch in photographer to take photographs of devastation
the Revenue I.B. I was hungry too, for going caused by the hungry flood. The picture was
without food since morning. I sat down for lunch gloomier than what the media could capture. With
soon after they had finished their's. scores of reporters hunting out every possible
news story the disaster turned more into a media
In the evening Collector was busy in giving
event than a real human tragedy.
his last instructions, because tomorrow he would
be going to Kendrapara, which was also badly This super flood of 1980 had badly affected
affected by the flood. He called me by 8 P.M. a population of 2.9 million in 10 out of the 13
19
districts of the State. It inflicted heavy casualities. by 11.30 P.M. My wife had already been admitted
As per the official estimates, 82 precious human to SCB Medical College Hospital for delivery. I
lives and 10,160 livestocks costing Rs 19.00 lakhs rushed to the hospital cabin allotted to my wife.
were lost, 130,981 dwelling houses costing But by the time she had been taken to the labour
Rs.9.05 crores were damaged, 6,865 hectares room. I felt tired and exhausted. Hard work and
of fertile farmland were sand-casted and valuable sleepless night had strain on me. It had gone
public infrastructure worth of about Rs. 65.23 beyond my endurance. I felt tired and exhausted.
crores was damaged. It was a nightmare. I felt, I could take it no more. I badly needed
some rest for atleast a few minutes before going
On the seventh day of the outbreak of the
to the labour room to see her. She was also
flood, the Central Team visited the flood-hit areas.
expecting me till the last moment. I could not just
They first came to Kendrapara Sub-division and
make it. I thought I could rest for a while in her
Jagatsinghpur came next in their itinerary. They
bed in the hospital cabin, but immediately fell fast
arrived at my station just before the evening of
asleep. No body also disturbed me. When I woke
10.10.1980. No body was expecting them at that up at about 2 A.M. in the night, I saw smiling
time but I had anticipated that it might happen. I faces around me. Then came the good news; I
was ready with a big and powerful flashlight. It was blessed with another son. It was God s gift.
was dark all around when the Central Team visited Parhaps he has rewarded me for my hard work
the spot. They were satisfied with what we did and selfless service for the suffering millions, I
for bringing rescue and relief to the needy, battling thought. I thanked God for his Kindness.
nightmarish logistical obstacles. They left the Sub-
divisional Headquarters about 8 P.M. in the Afterwards my wife always chided me that
evening. I did not bother for her in her critical moment.
She alleged that I took my profession as my first
Soon after the Team s departure Collector wife putting her in the second position.
called the SDO and me. He told the SDO, Mr.
Das, You are back to your chair. He profusely It was a moment of reckoning. Stray
thanked me for effective monitoring and thoughts crossed my mind. I knew, I was novice
management of the crisis and further told me."Now in the art of administration with only five years
you can go and join your family . experience to my credit at that time. But by God s
grace I found myself daring and taking prompt
I was staying there in the house of Sri decisions in the moment of crisis and this was
Jitendra Mohanty, my frriend who was working useful to me to handle the complex problem even
as the Sub-Registar of Salipur. His wife was a though I was a stranger not only to the area but
lecturer in the Jagatsinghpur College. They were also to the people of Jagatsingpur. Perhaps my
happy to accommodate me in their house. I was stranger value helped me to take impartial
practically working for more then 16 to 17 hours decisions against so many odds and particularly
daily. Sri Das, the SDO was also working with in dealing with the clamouring crowds shouting
little food and rest. I was told later that he suffered and demanding action in their favour. I was
for more than three months after flood operations determined to do all I could to manage the disaster
were over. and tide over the crisis.
I immediately came to my friend s house, Later, when I came across Mr. Hota, the
picked up my luggage and returned to Cuttack then Collector, he remembered those fateful days
20
and recounted the reminiscences. I had seen him Disasters can rip away social moorings and
moving in the flood affected villages by moter bike worsen the prospects of a society s existence. It
when roads were damaged, telephone lines cut may act as a unifying force if the right amount of
off and communication channels blocked making goodwill exists.
the relief works a Herculean task. His quick Those days have remained fresh in my
decisions in this emergency situation could save sweet memories. We the government officers live
many precious lives and property. He is endowed with the memories of such small achievements.
with the gift of taking right decisions at the right But it may look remarkeble when viewed in the
moment. I know it was his dynamism that inspired context of saving human life and wealth against
me to jump into the eye of the storm and come heavy odds. Yet, looking beyond the immediate
out with flying colours. occurrence, there are some crucial lessons to be
For me it was a mission accomplished. But learnt.
it was not the end of the road. The disaster had
left a trail of devastation. After the immediate task
of rescue and relief there would come the difficult
phase of rehabiliation and reconstruction in order
to enable the affected people to pick up threads
of life afresh. They were to be brought back to
Gopin ath Mohan ty lives at 4R-2/1, Unit-III,
their routine of old familiar life. Bhubaneswar.
A luxury bus VALVO of OSTRC has started its service from Bhubaneswar to
Rourkela on 28-4-2006.
21
Glimpses of Performing Art Heritage in

Orissan Inscriptions
Dr. D.B.Mishra
The reference of "Performing Art" heritage in the (assigned to 1st Century B.C.) refers to the
vast corpus of earlier Orissan inscriptions, except arrangement of festivals (usava) and social
the Hatigumpha inscription of Kharavela (1st congregations (samaja) along with performances
Century B.C.), is almost absent. However, the of acrobatism (dapa), dance (nata) as well as
Hatigumpha inscript ion vocal (gita) and instrumental
provides us with a fairly good (vadita) in the capital city
idea about the practice, nature (Nagari) in third regnal year
and development of music, by the Emperor Kharavels,
dance and dramaturgy. No who himself was well-versed
other record of Orissa in the art of music (Gandhava-
thereafter till the advent of the Veda-Budha). The capital city
Somavamsis in mid-9th was described as playing, as it
Century A.D. makes even were, with the performances.
astray allusion to it. It were the The reference of the patronage
inscriptions of the Imperial of the Emperor and its
Gangas to a great extent and popularity among people is
those of the Gajapatis to a amply corroborated by three
reasonable extent shed contemporary panels of
welcome light on t he dance-scences of Khandagiri-
advancement of the art. In fact, Udayagiri. The most enjoyable
the inscriptions of the imperial of them is the one in the lower
Ganga and Gajapati kings storey of Ranigumpha in which
(circa 11th-16th century AD.) contain profuse the danceuse expresses the purport of the song
references to various strands of the art which if by a posture (mudra) with her right hand while
interpreted and dealt with in an in-depth manner, stretching her left hand which is adorned with
with the support of plastic art and literature, may armlets and bracelets. She has bent her right leg
bring out the attainment of our ancestors in that in a pose in which the fingers of the feet touch the
regard by tracing the evolution down the ages. ground. The beatific smile on her lips and the
The Hatigumpha inscription.1 One of the jubilantly expressive eyes, the two strands of hair-
earliest lithic records of early Christian time plaits on the sides of her back, the rhythmic ups
22
and downs of the necklace and the anklets on the arts since very early times anterior to
legs lend a rare glamour to her deportment and Kharavela'reign. It may be pointed out in the
performance. She is accompanied by four female context that we have come across four types of
figures- one playing on the flute (venu), another musical instruments, viz.,Tata-Vadya (many
on a many stringed harp, the third a mrdanga stringed harp, harp played by plectrum and lute),
and fourth a dhakka. The stage performance is, Vitata-Vadya (mridanga, dhakka), Sisira-Vadya
in deed, a unique piece of performing art. It was (venu or flute) and Ghana-Vadya (cymbals or
said to have been performed on a stage. Manjira).Further, in the musical concerts the role
A similar scene of dance is carved in a cave of the vocalists in setting the tune of the music for
of Aurangabad (Maharastra). The daughter of Svara (musical notes), Tala (time-measure) and
Mara is found dancing in front of Buddha while pada (significant words) appears to be crucial. It
four female musicians accompany her in various may be pointed out that 'Gandharva Veda' has
musical instruments. N.K. Sahu2 been defined by Bharata Muni3
is of the view that both the art of (who has been variously assigned
Aurangabad and Khandagiri- a time between 3rd-2nd Century
Udayagiri are contemporaneous B.C. to 3rd - 2nd Century A.D.)
and that the music of Kalinga had in his Natya-Sastra, the earliest
spread to the Deccan in the reign available treatise on music and
of the Satavahanas. dramaturgy as the happy blending
of Svara, Tala and Pada. Some of
The second scene of dance,
our present critics interpret that
found in the upper storey of
Ranigumpha, with two women Gandharva did not include
dancers and three with musical dance in its fold as the latter is
instruments, is performed in an basically an imitative art in as
open-air theater, in contrast to the much as it endeavours to convey
earlier panel which exhibits a to the spectator either singly or
special stage. The fact that it has combined - form, an object, a
been witnessed by the Empress situation, a feeling or a mood
and another ro yal female contained or depicted in a song
personage, probably the guest of honour of the which it follows, or independently when dance
occasion-exhibits the love and the patronage of goes sans song. As such, it is at least party a
the Emperor for dance and music. spatial art fundamentally different from music,
The third scence of dance found in the Totua in its pure form, is an art in time.4
Gumpha (No.2 of Khandagiri) represents a man The reference of "Gandharva-Veda-budha-
playing on a vina (lute) while the girl dances to dapa-nata-gita-vadita" has many significant
the rhythm of the music with her left palm upraised connotations. First of all, as pointed by Sri D.N.
and right hand downwards in a dramatic pose. Patnaik,5
Further, the reference 'Tauryatrika' .. Odissi music, in its earliest
(Music,Dance and Drama) Hatigumpha form, was a type of music devoid of dance and
inscription speaks of the heritage of performing was conforming to the ideals laid down in the
23
Bharata Natya Sastra, in case this Sastra was They represent apparently a main current
compiled at a time earlier than the said of the traditional higher art of the aboriginal
inscription. Considering the hoary antiquity civilization of the sub-continent of India.
of the Hatigumpha inscription one may be For a long time after the Hatigumpha
tempted to think that if the Natya Sastra was inscription, there is no such specific epigraphic
compiled in the 2nd Century A.D., or still later, reference to dance and music till the time of the
as some scholars opine, the conception and Somavamsis in mid-9th century A.D. However.
definition of Gandharva was an outcome of The dance scenes of Parasuramesvar and
the observation of Odissi music prevailing Kapilesvar of 7th century A.D. clearly indicate
during Kharavela's Orissa. However, during that dance and music were popular among
the mediaeval period, particularly during the masses. In contrast to the female dancers and
rule of the Gannga kings who came to Orissa musicians of Kharavela's time, we find three male
from Southern India the music of Orissa seems figures performing dance in the upper part and
to have comprised vocal music, instrumental four males playing on musical instrument below
music and dance too. The Nata-mandapas or the panel - in both the temples. It shows that music
the dancing halls constructed in almost every and dance were gradually becoming popular
Orissa temple were meant for dance and music among males. The instruments like Venu (flute),
which used to go together in front of the temple Sringa (horn), Karatala (Cymbals) and Vudvudika
deities. were some of the popular instruments. N.K.
Many of the scholars are of the opinion that Sahu8 has observed that whereas the dance-scene
of Parasuramesvara is a folk-form that of
contribution of Orissa to the Eastern Indian music,
Kapilesvara exhibits the traits of Bharata-natyam.
which was known as "Odra-Magadhi" in Bharata's
He has identified one of the dancers as exhibiting
Natya Sastra, can not be denied. They think that
Padmakosa mudra in her right hand and Gajahasta
Odissi dance and song has been derived from it .
in the left, the second as in the posture of making
Secondly, that art as referred to in the hair-do and the third with Samdamsa mudra in
inscription and (portrayed) on the rock-shelters her right hand. Whereas in the Parasuramesvara
of Khandagiri-Udayagiri are secular6 in nature in Temple, one dancer is dancing with two pieces
contrast to those at Bharhut, Sanchi, Mathura and of scarf in his two hands, the second standing to
Bodhgaya etc. which are religious in nature. The his right has placed his left hand on the buttock
former are meant for the entertainment of the king and in his right hand he is hanging a kerchief and,
and /or the people whereas the latter-as in the the third standing to the left is taking a turn of his
case of Ajatasatru and Prasenjit pillars of Bharhut head towards the front while facing the opposite
- depicting the dances of Gandharvas and side of the audience.
Apsaras have been shown on the occasion of Contemporary Nataraja images exhibit a
worship of Buddha's relics. The spirit of dance rare aesthetic and spiritual expression, what may
and music which Kharavela instilled in the lives of be defined as Ananda Tandava mudra in the
the aboriginals became a part and parcel of their terminology of Bharata Muni. Charming
life-style, which continues as a precious artistic descriptions of public courtesans (dancing girls)
heritage even to-day among them in Orissa. H. occur in the "Mangalacharana" portion of the
Jimmerf 7 has rightly observed. Somavamsi inscriptions (Cir. A.D. 850-1100)
24
from the earliest dated record till almost the last. named Sutanu. The Ramgarh hill in Sarguja district
The Gopalpur Charter9 dated first regnal year of (Chhatisgarh) contains two caves, namely,
the founder of the dynasty, Janamejaya I Yogimara and Sita Vangira. The former was used
Mahabhavagupta, in the description of as a residence by a cave-actress (Lena Sobhika),
Suvarnapura - the capital metropolis - describes probably Sutanu where the inscription is found
the place as one "where the best of public damsels as follows:
dance rhythmically to the tune of the movement Sutanuka nama / Deva Dasi Kyi / Tam
of their "Kalasa' (small water jar with beautiful Kamayitha valuna seye/Devadine nama/
constricted neck) like breasts (Vara-Vara- Lupadakhe
Vilasini-kucha-kalasa). The description becomes
more conventional (Varnaka) from his 6th regnal It is important for the cultural history of
year (Kalibhana plates)10 onwards and, has been Kosala. However, a specific and significant
applied to other metropolises like Murasima and reference of 'Devadasi' has been made in the
Arama or Arama-Kataka as follows : Brahmesvara temple inscription13 of Kolavatidevi
in the reign of Uddyotakesari Mahabhavagupta
The jingling sound of the anklets on the (Cir.A.D. 1040 - 65). The inscriptions of
feet of the numerous charming courtesans Meghesvara and Sobhanesvara of the Ganga
frightened the flocks of pigeons (who) started reign also contain references of 'Devadasi'.
flying with their fluttering noise (which)
deafened the tenquarters (aneka-Vara-Vara- The Brahmesvara inscriptions (Verse 15)
Vilasini-Jana-charana-nupura-rava trasta- narrates :
paravata-svana-Vadhirita-dasa-diso ..) By her (Kolavati Devi) were dedicated
It appears that the victor Somavamsi kings to Lord Siva some beautiful women, whose
brought beautiful maidens as trophies of victory limbs were adorned with ornaments set in gems
from the vanquished territories and kept them in and thus appearing as the everlasting but
gem-studded mansions (amala-mani-krtrima- playful lightening, and who are restless with
sadana) for either performing art of dance and the weight of loins and breasts, and whose eyes
music or for prostitution to entertain the rich and were fickle and extended up to the ears and
the aristocratic people.11 who looked lovely like the pupils of the eyes
of men.
The institution which became famous as
"Deva-dasi"(literally maid of the god or temple) In the Ratnagiri Charte14 of Somavamsi king
in Orissa is unique in the realm of performing art. Karna (Cir. A.D. 1098-1118), a donation of land
It epitomizes of dance and music - which have was made in favour of Rani Karpurasri, the
been first alluded in 1st century B.C. and continued daughter of Mahari Mahunadevi. Mahari has been
in Orissa till almost 20th century A.D. They were interpreted a 'songstress or a dancing girl or a
a class of special maidens attached to the temple Devadasi or harlot by A.M. Shastri. It is an Oriya
for regular performance of dance in Orissan equivalent for 'Devadasi'.
temples. The first of its reference, as said earlier, There are profuse references to the
is found in the Ramgarh inscription12 of 1st century community of dancing girls of the temple-service
B.C., or A.D. which narrates the love episode of in the Imperial Ganga and Gajapati records. They
a young painter. Devadina and a 'Devadasi' were variously called Sani, Sanivaru, Sanulu,
25
Langalu, Kumari, Gudusani etc. The temples another inscription of Srikurmam refers to 30
became the nucleus for the growth of dance, song daughters of some Nayaka family dedicated to
and music. A Madhukesvara temple inscription15 the Lord.25 The Panchadharla record26 describes
of Chodagangadeva reveals that he made that the daughters of Narasimhadeva, the
arrangement for a service called 'Trikalinga Chalukya ruler of Elamanchalli, by his Bhogastri
Bhoga' with provisions of maintenance for (concubine) were made Devadasi and an
dancers, musicians and vocalists. Besides, his inscription of Simachalam 27 states that daughter
Narendrasvara inscription16 and his general of Arjunadeva of Oddadi was dedicated as a
Vanapati's inscription of the Bhagavati temple of temple servant. C.V. Ramachandra Rao28 has
Dirghasi17 state the arrangement of dance, music observed:
and dance-hall. It may be pointed out that 'Nata- In the medieval society, they were
mandapa' (dance-hall) became an important assigned a respectable place in the social order,
additional feature of the Orissan temples from and their profession did not carry any
Ganga time onwards. Anangabhima II employed disapprobation with it. With all the
Devadasis for dance and music in Meghesvara disapprobation that it may earn from the
and Sobhanesvara temple as known from the puritan critics of the present day, the
inscriptions of the respective temples. A institution of dancing girls did the greatest
Simhachalam inscription18 informs us that service to the arts of dance and music by its
Narasimha I's general Aktai erected the single minded devotion to those arts.
Natyamandapa of the temple in Saka 1160 (1238
A.D.) and the king appointed one hundred of The courtesans of the Later Imperial
"Kumaris" to sing in the temple.19 Narasimha Gangas and the Suryavamsi Gajapatis were
Bharati Sripada, the great Vaisnava saint and known as "Sampradaya-Mubhari" or "Lanjalu"
exponent of Madhava Mahavada arranged for (fully dedicated to temple service) and "Sanulu"
'Nama Samkrittana, at Simachalam with two flute- (part-time employment).
players and eight musicians as known from an It is interesting to note that there was a
inscription dated Saka 1281.20 Whereas Govinda Telenga community of dancing girls in the
Jiyana also arranged for 'Nama-Samkirttana' Jagannatha temple of Puri. Gajapati Prataparudra
according to the rules of Oriya Sampradaya in who himself has been adorned with the title of
the temple in Saka1312. 21 Pandita Dasa, "Sangita Sahitya Samlapa" has issued a command
Narasimha II's minister appointed two female in an inscription dated 1499 A.D. that all the
flute-players and ten singers in Srikurmam.22 groups of dancers, including the Telanga girls
Narasimha III's queen Gangadevi appointed a should henceforth dance only with the chanting
group of eighteen musicians as revealed from an and Tala of the Gita-Govinda29 (by Jayadeva).
inscription of Saka 1272.23 Many more instances He has further ordered in an inscription of Anka
may be quoted from the Ganga inscriptions in this 430 that music and dance of Gita-Govinda should
regard. continue in the temple from the evening rituals
Sanivaru or Sanulu community of dancing (Sandhya dhupa) till the 'Bada Singhara', so that
girls (Nrutyangana) belonged to both Sudra caste other concert group, viz., 'Bada Sampradaya',
as well as to respectable families whereas a 'Puruna Sampradaya' and 'Telanga Sampradaya'
Simachalam inscription refers to the fomer,24 could learn the music and the dance forms of Gita-
26
Govinda. A stipulation that if any 'Parichha' would illustrious Bharata, the composer of Natya
arrange any other music or dance (other than that Sastra), "Cappannam Beyakara (Versed in 56
of Gita-Govinda) he would sin against Lord ragas) and 'Todaramalla' (A honorific title, a
Jagannatha - was appended in the inscription. The badge) in the Simachalam temple inscription dated
reference of a 'Bada Sampradaya' is also found Saka 1343.39 Further the inscriptions mention
in a Jagannath temple inscription of Govindadeva about 'nattuvas' or choreographers who were
(A.D. 1534-46).31 Similarly, the reference to maintained by the donations made by the people
'Natua Sampradaya' is found in a number of to the temple treasury.40
inscriptions.32 Very interesting information about
By the time of Kapilendra Gajapati, it may
composition of temple orchestra are gleaned from
be pointed out in the context, that about 80
the Simachalam inscription (Saka 1272)33 of
musical instruments had been in use as revealed
Gangadevi, referred to earlier. The troupe or choir
by the Sarala Mahabharata of Orissa. The climax
of 18 consisted of 8 dancers (patralu), 2 drummers
of musical attainment was attained in the reign of
(madatikatyelu), 1 vocalist (gayani) one woman
Prataparudra Gajapati who both patronized and
each for the instruments viz., a flageolet
(tukinamu), a conch-shell (sankhu), a Kettledrum practiced music in his reign. As pointed out earlier,
(avarjamu), drum (bheri), a blow-pipe (mihvuri), like Samudragupta who took the title of Kaviraja,
Brahmamihvuri, a kind of trumpet (kahali); he took the epithet of 'Sangita-Sahitya-Samlapa'.
besides a pair of women with bronze cymbals Chandrika Devi, daughter of the Ganga emperor
(Kamsya talamu) who were not counted in the Anangabhimadeva has been described as an
repertoire. Similarly, a repertory in a Srikurmam adept in dance and music in the Ananta Vasudeva
inscription34 of a governor (Daksina Desadhikari) temple inscription.41 The ministers, nobles and
of Narasimha II, consisted of 30 dancing girls high officials vied with one another to attain
(sanulu), 1 choreographer (mattuva), 6 drummers personal excellence as well as in extending
(madylakandru), 1 kettledrum beater (avajakadu), patronage to dance and music. Mention may be
1 Karadakadu, 1 kahalakadu and a leader of the made of Narayana Senapati (Simachalam
troupe (melunayakudu). inscription, Saka 1213) 42 who provided 5
nibandhas of money to 2 male singers and 4 female
It appears that all and sundry were not singers. The Brahmin minister of Odaddi was
admitted into the community of 'Sanulu' or known as 'Sangita Ratnakara'.43 Pratapavira
'Devadasi'. The inscriptions repeatedly speak
Gangaraju, a feudatory of Gangas in Janturunadu
about the beauty and the dancing-girls as 'Yosita
has been described as a 'Sarigitajna'. 44 One
sundarangi',35 'lavanyaguna sampanna'36 and
Krisnadedva is decorated with the title
praised for their faces as resembling the moon
"Sangitabodhi Chandra"45 (the moon in the ocean
(purnacandranana)37 and for eyes as 'Vama
of music). Narasimha VI's queen Uttamadevi's
vilocana'.38 Very likely, before their entry into the
uncle Tammana is mentioned as "Talambudhih"
dancing community they had to take lessions from
(an ocean of musical-measure).46
eminent Gurus, as in present day, some of whom
were attached to temples or royal courts, like The foregoing discussion reveals that
Ranganatha Vaggeyakara who had been Performing Arts, as in present time, was very
decorated with various titles, such as, 'Abhinava popular in ancient and mediaeval ages. It is
Bharatacarya' (a brand-new preceptor like the unfortunate that no treatise of early times on music
27
and dance forms of Orissa has been Prataparudra's 'Dasagriva-vadha' and 'Janaki-
available.However, references are available in such Pramoda': Dibakara Mishra's 'Parijata-harana',
medieval literary works as 'Ekamra Purana', 'Veni-Samhara,'Prabhavati'; "Sri Jagannatha
'Svarnadri Mahodaya', 'Durgotsava Chandrika, Ballabha" by Ramanand Raya etc. were some of
'Parimala Kavya, Dandi Ramayana, Sarala the significant compositions, and were probably
Mahabharata, Kavi Kalpadruma, Rasa played on stages or in open-air. In the context,
Kalpadruma etc. However, the poses and the Damodar Hota50 has pertinently observed
postures of the dancers, the musical instruments All these dramas embellished with
portrayed on the caves and temples, the musical colour bespeak the continuity of the
references to various types of communities, the tradition of Udra form, of Classical Music in
patronage of kings and royal personages and, the Orissa. "Sri Jagannatha Ballabha Nataka" by
institution of Devadasi, go a long way to depose Raya Ramananda can be taken as a bright
the attainment in the field. example to prove this fact; the songs we come
The epigraphic references, corroborated by across in this work, are in the form of
plastic art, suggest that present tradition of 'Prabandhas' based on Raga and Tala'. The
classical dance and music is the "outcome of authors of later periods referred to this work
continuous evolutions". Bharata Muni very likely are Krisna Dasa Badajena Mahapatra,
standardized Indian dance and music on the basis Raghunatha Nanda, Gajapati Narayana Dev
of geo-musical significance into 4 types, viz., Harichandan etc. We are prompted by the
Avanti, Daksinatya, Pancali and (U) Odra- above facts to conclude that 'Udra Paddhati'
of 'Prabandha gana continued to flourish in
Magadhi. The last one, named after Orissa-
Orissa till 19th century A.D. unabatedly.
Magadha or the Eastern Region has been
classified into 32 Melas on the basis 'Ragas' on In fine, it may be said that classical dance
genus-species 47 like Dhanasri, Kokila, Asavari, and music grew from early Christian time from
Mahallara, Todi, Bhairavi etc. and 14 Talas like the Cave-palace of Kharavela and continued
Adi, Jati, Eka, Jhampaka, Rupaka etc.48 and 15 down the ages till 16th/17th centuries A.D.,
varieties of composition styles (Paddhati) Viz., Sri particularly in such famous temples as
Gita Govinda, Divya Manusi Prabandha, Bhajana, Simamchalam, Srikurmam and Jagannatha with
Janana, Champu, Tribhanga, Vyanjani etc. set to patronage of the royal and religious personages
Ragas and Talas. Oddisi is a variant of Indian and loving participation of the people. The temples
classical music and has evolved from the Odra- proved to be the veritable cradle of the dance
Magadhi. and the music whereas open-ground and stages
proved to be the theater of operation of the plays.
As regards dramaturgy49 'Anargha- These performing Arts grew luxuriantly in Orissa,
Raghava Nataka' by Murari Mishra (8th/9th contributed significantly to Indian classical forms
Centruy A.D.), the oldest available, was and further flourished as one of the most advanced
performed at Puri on the occasion of the Yatra of form and, earned name and renown not only in
Sri Purusottama. Prabodha Chandrodaya by Orissa or India but also in abroad. The performing
Krsna Mishra (mid-11th Century), 'Chandrakala' Arts of Orissa, with a long and hoary tradition of
by Viswanatha Mahapatra, 'Parasurama Vijaya' evolution, have proved to be a priceless artistic
by Kapilendradeva (1435-66); Gajapati heritage of the country.
28
References: 30. E.I., LXII, 1893, pp. 88-104.

1. E.I., XX (1929-30), Gandhava-Veda-Budha 31. OHRJ, V, No. 4, Jan. 1957, p. 217.
dapa-nata-gita-Vadita samdasanahi usava 32. S. I.I., VI, No. 1049, 1052.
samaja Karapanahi ca Krdapayai Nagarim (L-
5). 33. Ibid, 1052.
2. Sahu, N.K.-Odia Jatira Itihasa, Vol.I, P. 133 34. Ibid, V, 1188.

(Bhubaneswar, 1974). 35-38. Ibid, VI, 1052, 1137, ibid, 1197.
3. Natya Sastra, Canto 14. 39. Rao, C.V. Ramachandra, op.cit. 326.
4. Beuria, N. (ed)- Orissa State Gazetteer, II, P.141 40. S.I.I., VI, 1049, 890, 1134 etc.
(Govt. of Orissa, 1991).
41. EI, XXX, 19.
5. Ibid, P. 142.
42. S.I.I., VI, No. 904.
6. Sahu, J.K. : Odisara Samskrtika Itihasa, II, P. 51
(Bhubaneswar,2001). 43. Rajguru, S.N. - Odisara Samskritika Itihasa, IV,
p. 121 (Bhubaneswar, 2001).
7. Jimmer, H. : The Art of Indian Asia, I,P.224.
44. S. I.I., V, No. 1150.
8. Sahu, N.K. : op.cit., p. 317.
45. Ibid, VI, No. 725.
9. Orissa Historical Research Journal, XXXIX,
Nos. 1-4, pp. 115-18, Text LC 12-13. 46. Ibid, 769.
10. Rajguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, IV, No. 17 47. Acharya, TG. Patra- Oddisi Sangita Prakasha,
(Bhubaneswar, 1966). Vol. 1.
11. Sahu, J.K. : Odisa Itihasa, I, pp. 243-44 (Cuttack). 48. Das, K. - Gita Prakasa ; Rath, R.N. - Natya
Monorama; Gajapati Narayan Dev- Sangite
12. Indian Antiquary, XXXIV, pp. 197-98. Narayana; Harichandan-Sangita Muktavali;
13. Rajguru, S.N. : op.cit. No. 39. Hota, D - Kisora Candranana Campu Lahari
etc.
14. Ibid, No. 40.
49. Misra, N.M. - Odisa ki Natak aur Rangamanc.
15. South Indian Inscriptions, V, No. 1010
(hereinafter call S.I.I.). 50. Das, M.N. (ed.) Sidelights on History and
Culture of Orissa. P. 772 (Bhubaneswar, 1978).
16. Journal of Andhra Historical Research Society,
XII, Pt-I, p. 16.
17. Epigraphia Indica, IV. P. 318.
18-27. See S.I.I., Nos. 1142, 1197, 890, 722, 1037, 1052,
1202, 1188, 668,876.
28. Administration and Society in Mediaeval
Andhra, P. 303 (Nellore, 1976).
29. Journal of Asiatic Society of Bengal, LXII, Dr. D.B. Mishra is the Reader in History in G.M. College,
p. 97. Sambalpur.
29
Success
Success Story
Karamula: A Village
Where Tradition and Heritage Play Enterprise
Gurbir Singh
At a time when Generation X has grown almost of this village have successfully employed
old and its junior ilk- Gen Y is slowly taking over themselves by taking recourse to the traditional
from it the joyous burden of carrying modernity arts and tribal crafts which are fast dying
further ahead, it is very pleasant and refreshing to everywhere in the state. Atleast they do not exist
set your foot in a for the educated youth
village in Orissa who can hardly think
where time seems to of learning them to
be really on a make a living out of
rearward journey
them.
though in a pleasant
and enterprising way. Pala t he
traditional folk art
Karamula an
half hour s bus ride performed in the open
from Dhenkanal town where a lead singer-
takes you to this cum-performer along
village of over three with his fellow choir
thousand people, members narrate
situated calmly on the episodes from
quiet bank of the A young boy learning the craft from the old mythology both in
perennial river so ng and action;
Brahmani in the Gondia block of the district. The together with the antiquated, but very fascinating
signal tower of the All India Radio Station at the craft of tribal jewelleryare now for many youth of
nearby town Joranda stands majestically amidst this village a very successful way of self-
the region s beautiful and ever-bestowing flora employment. Perhaps it sounds like a bit snubbing
and fauna. Impressively likewise, the youth in for smart economists. But the nicest thing about
Karamula can now serve themselves as role the novel endeavour of these young people is that
models of rural entrepreneurship for their they are earning very handsomely too.
counterparts in the rest of Orissa. Well, why not
for the rest of India too! Many college and high There are over dozens of pala-performing
school drop-outs, together with some graduates troupes in this village. Pleasantly four of these are
30
mainly run by Great, but wait, for traditional art s help

all-female does not end here. There are some dozen Self-
members. Help Groups separately formed by the young men
Young, semi- and women artisans of the village which are
educated and dedicated to reviving and popularizing tribal
a mb it io u s , jewelleryin commercial markets. These artisans
these self- are not ordinary artisans. They are uncommon in
ent erp rising the sense that most of them are young with school
youths have and college backgrounds and they are not
b e c o m e expecting the government to provide them with
popular for jobs.
their superb Meet Maguni Maharana, a young graduate
performance of who runs his own registered NGO, "Crafts
pala. Perhaps Orissa" in his own village. He has learnt from his
being young, father their ancestral skill of tribal jewellerymaking.
educated and This jewelleryis made of white metals, Dokra and
smart help them brass. They range from earrings, necklaces,
steal a march bracelets, anklets, rings and even mangalsutras.
Maguni Maharana proudly over their They are all exquisitely designed and they
exhibiting his tribal jewelry products
t ypical, invariably retain the authenticity and originality of
stereotyped, old and illiterate counterparts. Each the typical tribal wear. And believe me, these
group consists of six artists and it gets paid a sum jewelleryare so good, cheap and exotic that
of a little over rupees one thousand for a single people with some taste for change and tribular
pala performance. Barring the rainy days, the distinction will find them good enough for both
groups claim to be receiving as many as ten calls casual and fashionable wear.
for pala performance from different areas every
month. One all female group has just been back Young Maharana, together with some
home after a month s continuous performance in fifteen other SHGs in his village, gets the help of a
Sambalpur. Bhubaneswar based NGO which helps them get
the raw materials form Calcutta. The supply order
Ragunath Behera, an ex-serviceman and a too is placed by this intermediary agency which
Pala-performer himself, while frequently quoting markets these tribal ornaments in places like Delhi,
facile mantras from scriptures, something which Calcutta, Hyderabad, Pune and Madras. The
comes to him fluidly, says that this way the youth good news is that these young artisans of a small
are doubly serving the society. Firstly by self- village are also bringing in foreign currency as their
employing themselves without being a liability to products get marketed abroad. There are a lot of
the country s exchequer; secondly by preserving takers of these tribal ornaments among foreigners.
Orissa s rich cultural heritage for the next
generation. Besides, he says, this act of bringing With more than eighty varieties of
scriptures to common people is also an act of mangalsutras, two hundred types of necklaces
great virtue. and forty designs of earrings, just to count a few
31
The synthesis of these two primitive but

exquisite designs of tribal jewellery will surely
bring in a new tale of successful marketing of the
same in future. Innovative in its own sense, artistic
and very exquisite, and yet authentically primitive,
the tribal jewellery making surely stands to serve
as a good business enterprise for these rural youth.
But more than anything else, the charm of a youthful
face gleaming with sure hope of making it on its
own shows signs of change in the rural India. When
everywhere else, youths from the rural area are
rushing to the nearest towns and cities seeking
employment, a mere attitudinal change among
A lady entrepreneur being her own model. some youth of this village has given a new
dimension to the rural entrepreneurship.
items, these tribal ornaments are definitely going
to be any connoisseur s treat. And a sure That the traditional art forms and our rich
inspiration for any fashion designer who has some cultural heritage are playing a role in these self-
respect for the ancient craft. employment endeavours in villages is beyond
doubt a welcome news for economists and
Tulsidas Sorabi, a tribal artisan from
laymen alike.
Nabarangpur has been here since last month.
Three more months to go before he leaves with
three other artisans of his village for home, but
not before they have all learnt and mastered the
craft of the intricate and exquisite designs of
Dhenkanal s tribal jewelry. Beauty is that the local
artisans who are now playing teachers to these
outsiders had been trained by them last year back
home on the making of jewellery worn by the tribal Th e author is presently serving as SDIPRO,
men and women in Koraput. Bhanjanagar.
32
Lord Jagannath : Symbol of Unity and

Integration
Dr. Chitrasen Pasayat
The literary meaning of Jagannath (Jagat+Nath) mentioned in some places. For instance,
is the Lord of the Universe. He is called Ramachandra had once advised Bibhisana to
Devadhideva (Lord of Lords) and Rajadhiraj worship Jagannath. Some scholars opine that the
(King of Kings). He is also known as Purushottam vedi or antarvedi as referred to in the
(Purusa+uttama i.e. the supreme Purusa). Puri Mahabharata is nothing but the ratnavedi i.e.
otherwise known as Jagannath Puri is the abode raised stone platform or pedestral on which the
of the Lord of the Universe. Puri is also popularly deities are seated in Puri temple. Jagannath is also
known as Sri-kshetra, Sankha-kshetra, known as Daru-Brahma or the prime soul
P u ru sho t t a m- enshrined in wood.
kshetra, Neelachala Some scholars co-
and Neeladri. In fact, relate this Daru with
Puri is synonymous that of Apurusham
with Lord Jagannath Daru mentioned in
and vice versa. the Rig Veda and
Popularly the word hold the view that
Jagannath has been worship of Lord
used for Puri. In the Jagannath started
ancient Hindu before the Christian
religious scriptures era. Indrabhuti in his
and puranas namely Vajrayana treatise
Vishnu Purana, Agni Purana, Brahma Purana, Gyanasidhi has mentioned the name of Jagannath.
Padma Purana, Naradiya Purana, Bhagavat Neeladri Mahodaya also narrates in detail the
Purana, Skanda Purana, Kapila Purana or ritual and custom of the deities in the Puri temple.
Kapila Samhita, Tantra Jamala, Rudra The most famous Oriya work of Sarala Das
Jamala, Kalika Purana, Bamadev Samhita, belonged to 15th century is Mahabharata wherein
Neeladri Mahodaya and the like, one finds the the poet has narrated in detail the legendary origin
references of this religious pitha. In the Sanskrit of Lord Jagannath. Besides, there are references
Ramayana and the Mahabharata though there of Purushottam Jagannath and Puri in a number
are no clear and specific references to this pitha of inscriptions like Nagpur stone inscription of
or deity, the word Jagannath has been found 1104 AD, Govindpur inscription of 1137 AD,
33
Lingaraj temple inscription of 1230-38 AD, in Cuttack in 1949 attests the fact that Ananga
Srikurma temple inscription of Bhanu Dev II of Bhima Deva constructed the temple at Puri.
1310 AD, Kapilas inscription of Narasimha Dev Dr.S.N.Rajguru is of the opinion that an ancient
of 1238-64 AD, Neulapur inscription of Subhakar temple of Lord Purushottam was built on the sea
Dev of 780-800 AD, Satana, Madhya Pradesh shore. After the destruction of the temple, the
inscription of 10th century AD, Nagari Copper presiding deity was removed and was installed in
Plate of King Anangabhima Dev III of 1230 AD, a new temple built by Yajati-II in 10th century
Baramdeo Temple inscription of 840-1088 AD, AD. The temple built by him is nothing but the
Simanchala temple inscription of 1319 AD, present temple of Nrushimha in the bhitara bedha
Nrushimha, Markandeswara and Pataleswara (inner circle) of the Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri.
temple inscription at Puri of 1113 AD-1238 AD, Subsequently, Chodaganga Deva built the present
Dasagova Copper plates of 1192 AD-1211 AD. temple by the northern side of the Nrushimha
According to legends as depicted in some temple. But during his life time, he could not
Puranas, Raja Indradyumna of Malab (central complete the work and his descendant Ananga
India) had built a huge temple for Lord Jagannath. Bhima Deva III completed the construction work
It was 1000 cubits high. In course of time, the of the temple and also performed the glorious
temple was collapsed. It was the first temple of pratistha ceremony and the deities were installed
Lord Jagannath. But historical evidence as to the in the new and huge temple sometimes in 1230
temple by Raja Indradyumna is not available. AD.
Hence, Raja Indradyumna appears to be a Shri Jagannath temple at Puri has four
legendary figure. Historically, it is believed that chambers or sections namely Deula or Vimana
the present temple was built in the 12th century (sanctum sanctorum) where the deities are seated
AD by King Ananta Burman Chodaganga Deva. on the ratnavedi; Mukhasala (porch); Nata
Reportedly, he was the founder of the Ganga Mandira and Bhoga Mandapa. It is said that
dynasty in Orissa. Chodaganga started the Deula and the Mukhasala were built in the
construction of this huge temple but could not 12th century AD and the Natamandapa and
complete it during his life. Thereafter, it was Bhogamandapa were added subsequently during
completed during the time of his successor the reign of Raja Purushottam Deva (1461-1491
Ananga Bhima Deva III. According to the noted AD) and Raja Prataprudra Deva (1495-1532
historian Sterling, Ananga Bhima Deva built the AD) respectively. It may be noted that the
temple in 1196 AD. But scholar like Ferguson Natamandapa is also known as Jagamohana.
opines that the temple was built in 1098 AD. The presiding deities in the temple are Lord
However, according to Hunter the construction Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess
of the temple began in 1174 AD and completed Subhadra. These three deities are popularly
in 1198 AD. On the other hand, R.D.Banerjee known as Trimurti (trinity). The trio with
holds the view that the temple was built by Sudarshana are seated on the Ratnavedi in the
Chodaganga Deva at the close of the 11th century. Deula or Vimana portion of the temple. The four
Moreover, as per the Madalapanji, old chronicles idols are popularly known as Chaturdhamurti.
of the temple written on palm leaves, Ananga Two other small idols namely Goddess Sridevi
Bhima Deva ordered for the construction of the (Laxmi), Goddess Bhoodevi or Biswadhatri are
present temple. A copper plate grant discovered seated on the Ratnavedi on the left and right side
34
of Lord Jagannath respectively. Another small (Orissa) to have a darshan of the deity. The king
replica of Lord Jagannath called Neelamadhaba was disappointed at the sudden disappearance
is seated by the side of Lord Jagannath. In other of the deity. The deity was hidden in sand. Raja
words, there are seven idols found on the Indradyumna was determined not to return without
Ratnavedi. Except Sridevi and Bhoodevi, the having a darshan of the deity and observed fast
other five idols are made of neem wood. Sridevi onto death at Neelagiri. The deity was pleased
and Bhoodevi are metallic images of gold and with the king. Thereafter, the king performed a
silver respectively. It is also commonly believed horse sacrifice and built a magnificent temple for
that before installation of Lord Jagannath, the deity. Narada brought the Nrushimha murti
Neelamadhaba was the only presiding deity of (image) and it was installed inside the temple.
the temple. During the sleep, the king had a vision of Lord
According to the legend, Lord Nrusimha Jagannath. An astral voice directed him to cut
was being worshipped at Neelagiri (Puri) down the fragrant tree on the seashore and make
alongwith Neelamadhaba. As mentioned earlier, idols out of it. Thereafter, Viswakarma appeared
Lord Nrushimha is being worshipped in a separate before the king in the guise of an old man and
temple adjacent t o Muktimandapa / expressed his desire to make the idols and installed
Muktamandapa. According to the legend, the in the garbha-griha (sanctum sanctorum).
image o f Neelamadhaba was made of Some scholars believe that Neelamadhaba
Neelakanta mani (emerald). However, the was originally a non-Aryan tribal deity. But, there
present image of the deity is made of neem wood. is no denying the fact that the very name
Legend further says that Lord Jagannath was Neelamadhaba indicates a Sanskrit Aryan name.
originally worshipped by a savara raja (an Some scholars believe that the deity belongs to
aboriginal tribal chieftain) named Viswabasu. Hindus pantheon and he was originally in the form
Having heard about the glory of the deity, Raja of a Sila (stone) Brahma and afterwards became
Indradyumna sent a Brahmin priest called a Daru (wood) Brahma. In course of
Vidyapati to discover the exact location of the development, Neelamadhaba became Jagannath
deity who was then secretly worshipped by and was worshipped alone. Subsequently,
Viswabasu inside the cave of a dense forest. Balabhadra, Subhadra and Sudarshana were
Vidyapati tried his best, but could not locate the incorporated consequent upon the resurgence of
place of worship. Finally, he could manage to Saivism and Saktism. It is believed that there was
marry the Lalita, daughter of Viswabasu. At a great resurgence of Saktism from the 7th century
repeated request of Lalita, Viswabasu took his onwards. The image of Goddess Durga or Sakti
son-in-law blind-folded to a cave wherein Lord was included by the side of Lord Jagannath in the
Neelamadhaba was being worshipped. Vidyapati temple. Durga or Sakti is also known as Bhadra
was a very intelligent man. He dropped mustard or Mangala. It is believed that this Bhadra or
seeds on the ground on his way. Mangala came to be known as Subhadra
After a few days, the seeds germinated (Srikrishna's sister). Lord Siva or Veerabhadra
which helped Vidyapati to locate the cave wherein was transformed into Balabhadra (elder brother
the deity was being worshipped hiddenly. On of Srikrishna) under the influence of Vaishnavism.
hearing from Vidyapati subsequently, Raja It is also accepted that Jagannath was the only
Indradyumna immediately rushed to Odra desa deity being worshipped as per the Tantrik
35
Buddhist rituals at one time. In course of time, treatise on Vajrayana. It is also widely believed
under t he inspiration and influence of that in the cavity of the wooden image of Jagannath
Sankaracharya and with the active support of Raja a danta (tooth) of Buddha has been preserved.
Yajati Kesari, Balabhadra as Siva and Subhadra At the time of Nabakalebara ceremony of the
as Bhubaneswari were included to form the Triad. deities, the sacred tooth of Buddha is transferred
In other words, the three important streams of to a new image and the old images are buried in
the Hindu spiritual cultural tradition namely the koilibaikuntha situated in the bahara-bedha
Saivism, Saktism and Vaishnavism were (outer circle) of the temple. The car festival of
accommodated in the Trid under the common Lord Jagannath is a reproduction of that tooth
umbrella of Vaishnavism in the Puri temple. festival of Lord Buddha. The name of Puri was
It is also believed that during the time of Dantapuri and the temple of Lord Jagannath has
Somavamsi Raja Yajati in Orissa, attempts were been built on the ruins of a Buddhist stupa.
made to bring together all the main deities However, Buddha and Jagannath have remained
worshipped in different parts of the then Orissa. one and identical in Puri temple. The most
Purushottam Jagannath of Kalinga and Kangoda celebrated ancient Oriya poets, popularly known
(east Orissa), Baladeva or Nagaraj of Toshali as Panchasakhas namely Jagannath Das, Balaram
(north Orissa) and goddess Stambheswari/ Das, Achutananda Das, Yashovanta Das and
Khambeswari or Ekanamsa Subhadra of west Ananta Das belonging to 15th-16th centuries have
Orissa were brought together and worshipped at described Lord Jagannath as Buddha in their
Puri temple as the State deities of the greater writings. It would not be out of place to mention
Orissa or Trikalinga empire. In all probability, it that on the wall of Jagamohana by the side of
was a political move for unification and integration the Garuda stambha and also at the top of the
of a larger area of the then Orissa. In this context, Singha dwara (Lions gate) of the temple, one
it would not be out of context to mention that the finds images of the ten avataras (incarnations)
words Kaivalya, Purushottam and Natha indicate of Lord Vishnu. In the ninth place i.e. the place of
influence of Jainism on the Jagannath cult as Buddha, one finds the image of Jagannath. In view
opined by some scholars. According to this line of the analysis made above, it may be surmised
of thought, the word Jagannath is derived from that Buddhism and Jainism have also been
Jineswara. According to Jainism, Rishava is accepted as integral parts of Hinduism. As such,
Jineswara. The car festival day of Jagannath i.e. the people following these religions are not at all
asadha sukla dwitiya is observed as the birth prohibited from entering into the Shri Jagannath
day of Rishava. Originally, Jagannath was a tribal temple at Puri.
(savara) deity called Jaganta and under the
influence of Jainism the word nath was perhaps
suffixed to it. Thus, the deity became Jagannath.
It is also accepted by some other scholars that
the worship of Jagannath is of Buddhist origin.
They hold the view that the three deities symbolize
the Triratna of Buddhist tradition which refers to
Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. Buddha has been Dr. Chitrasen Pasayat is the Asst. Administrator in the
addressed as Jagannath in the Gyanasiddhi a Sri Jagannath Temple Office at Puri.
36
Poverty and Performance of Major Welfare

Schemes in Gajapati District
Prasant Sarangi
&
Satyabrata Pattanaik
Orissa is endowed with rich natural resources in witnessed a trend decline in the incidence of
the form of vast mineral reserves, forests, fertile poverty. Years of development have not changed
land, plentiful surfaces and ground water, long its economic condition satisfactorily .Sahu ( 1997)
coastline, picturesque tourist potential, and many estimated the ratio of people living below the
others. Beside all these convincing pictures, poverty line in the state to be more than 60 percent
Orissa ranks very low among the Indian states in during 1983-84. An earlier study by Mahendra
terms of per capita income, poor level of living, Dev (1992) had revealed that in between 1961-
and is therefore regarded as one of the backward 62 to 1986-87, around 65 percent of rural
population in Orissa were living below poverty
states. As per an estimate, among the fifteen
line instead of the quoted figure of 48.3 percent
major backward states of India, the position of
as estimated by the Planning Commission.
Orissa particularly with regard to living conditions
However the official figures of the rate of poverty
not so encouraging. at present is estimated to be 47.2 percent (Sarangi
Millions of people are living in extreme and Penthoi, 2005).
poverty, constantly facing with the threat of Objective and Methodology:
uncertainty and inadequate food supplies. In this
context, the government of India is continuously The basic objective of the present paper is to:
implementing a number of food security measures 1. Analyse the general economic condition
by its successive planning the public distribution of the Gajapati district which is one of the poorest
system, food for work programme, targeted tribal concentrated districts of Orissa.
public distribution system and a dozen of related
incentives which are all meant to feed millions of 2. Analyse the quantum of poverty in the
hungry stomach living in the country who even district based on income and occupation category,
and,
sleep without two square meals a day (Sarangi,
2004). 3. Examine the performance of some major
welfare schemes that are functioning in the district.
Orissa like India, is pre-eminently
agricultural.1 The most important economic unit The study is based on secondary source
is the villages. 2 Over the years, Orissa has of information that has been compiled and
37
collected from various Government surveys, contribution to the history, culture, literature, art,
reports, doctoral theses, scribes and books economy and religion of Orissa. The district is
relevant to the present study. For examining the having a total population of 5,18,448 persons
functioning and performances of the major welfare (male being 2,55,288 and female being 2,63,160)
schemes in the district, data and facts related to living in 106 grama panchayats, one NAC and
different schemes are collected from concerned one municipality. Paralakhemundi is the district
departments of the Gajapati district during May, head quarter.
2004. On the basis of occupational pattern of
This paper is divided into three segments. the district, it is found that, about 86.99 percent
Segment-l briefly introduces geographic- of its people are living in the pursuit of agriculture.
demographic-economic conditions of the Gajpati The percentage of main workers to the total
district. Where as Segment-2 of the paper population is estimated at 42.01. Industrial worker
constitute a very small proportion i.e. only 2.31
represents the condition of poverty in the district
percent of the total main workers. Out of the total
followed by examining the performances of the
main workers in the district 50.2 percent are
functioning of major welfare schemes in the district
cultivators, 35.39 percent are agricultural
in Segment-3. Finally the paper ends with a
labourers, only 8.73 percent are engaged in the
general conclusion of the findings of the study.
category of trade and commerce, mining,
Segment-l: Introduction to Gajapati: household and other than household etc. and the
rest 5.68 percent are engaged in other services
The district of Gajapati, originally a part category (table-1).
of Ganjam district is bordered by Ganjam in the
north east, Kandhamal in the north, Rayagada in The district has a total of 122.81 thousand
the west and Srikakulam district of Andhra hectors as gross cropped area (200 1-2002) with
Pradesh in the south presents a strange amalgam 82.40 and 40.41 thousand hectares for Kharif
of the autochthonous Tribal, Telgu and Oriya and Rabi crops respectively. 80 thousand hectors
cultures. History of the region, generally traced as net area (50 thousand as high, 19 thousand as
from the Mauran age reached a climax under the medium and 11 thousand as low cultivable area)
which is the second lowest in area next to Deogarh
Raj families of Paralakhemundi in the late medieval
district (68 thousand hectors) in the state.
and modern period giving a panoramic picture of
rise and fall of successive royal dynasties, In respect of industrial sector, facts shows
resistance and freedom movements against the that, the net value added by the manufactures in
torturous rule of the British Government, the district is estimated as Rs.7.6 lakhs in the year
formation of the separate province of Orissa in 1996-97 and Rs.9 lakhs in the year 1997-98.
1936 etc. has been presented to the posterity. The district is having only 51 numbers of small
The rules of Paralakhemundi in particular and the scale and 228 cottage industries (1998-99)
people of Gajapati in general made remarkable employing only 382 and 456 persons respectively.
38
Table-l Occupational Pattern in Gajapati district

SI. Category of workers No. of % to total population
No. workers
1. Cultivators 95731 50.2
2. Agricultural labourers 67481 35.39
3. Livestock, forestry, fishery, hunting etc. 2672 1.40
4. Mining, 13 0.007
5. Household industries 2399 1.26
6. Other than household industries 1995 1.05
7. Construction 905 0.474
8. Trade and commerce 7432 3.9
9. Transport, storage, & communication. 1237 0.649
10. Other services 10839 5.68
Total population of main workers (total main workers) 190704 100
Non-workers 33432
Total workers 224136
Note: Computed from Fact Book on Manpower-V, DE & S, Bhubaneswar, Orissa.
The state highway is of 151 km. long with Rural poverty based on income groups :
66 km. long major district road, 4253 km. of
grama panchayats road and 440 km of village The intensity of poor people is estimated
road till 1998-99. The district is having one head on basis of different income groups. Table-2
post office, 18 numbers of sub-post offices, 127 shows distribution of rural families living below
numbers of branch offices with a total numbers poverty line with an income constraint of
of 146 post offices. It is having 50 km. of narrow Rs.10,000 (as per 1992 survey) of Panchayati
gauge single lined railway line with seven railway Raj Department, Government of Orissa. On the
stations. basis of different income level, people are assigned
with a name as destitute, very-very poor, very
Segment-2: Quantum of poverty in the poor and poor (with concerned income limit of
district: Rs.0-4000/-, Rs.4001-6000/-, Rs.6001- 8500/-
The Panchayati Raj department, and 8500-11000/- respectively. There are a total
Government of Orissa has estimated the quantum of 29,218 persons (in a percentage of 33.3 to
of rural families living below the poverty line in total number of rural families) in the district as
the state, based on different income group and destitute. Similarly 31,063 persons (in 35.43
also on occupation pattern. For the present percent), 15,374 persons (in 17.53 percent) and
purpose we have considered the figures of 4,585 persons (in 5.23 percent) are found to be
Gajapati district and a comparison is made with in very-very poor, very poor and poor category.
that of the figure of Orissa state below. Among the total rural families of 87,684 persons,
39
the above four categories alone constitute 80,240 shows the rural poor structure of Orissa in each
families which is 91.51 percent to the total rural income category.
families of the district. Column-3 of the table
Table-2 Distribution of Rural Families Below Poverty Line of Rs.11,000 on the basis of
different income groups in Gajapati as well as in Orissa (as per 1992 survev)
Description-of income category - Region
Gajapati Orissa
1 2 3
(i) Rs.0-4,000 (Destitute) 29218 (33.32) 1352179 (25.89)
(ii) Rs.4,00 1-6,000 (very-very poor) 31063 (35.43) 1567662 (30.01)
(iii) Rs.6,001-8,500 (very poor) 15374 (17.53) 821415 (15.55)
(iv) Rs.8,501-11,000 (poor) 4585 (5.23) 378178 (7.24)
Total (i+ii+iii+iv) 80240 (91.51) 4110434 (78.70)
Others 7444 (8.49) 1112690 (21.30)
Total number of Rural Families 87684 (100) 5223124 (100)
Note: Figures in parenthesis of column 2 and 3 indicate percentage of different income groups to
total number of rural families.
Source: Panchayati Raj Department, Government of Orissa (computed)
Rural Poverty on basis of Occupation persons in the category of small farmers, 36148
The incidence of rural poverty in the district as persons as marginal farmers and 25934 persons
well as in the state is derived on the basis of as agricultural labours family which is in
occupation pattern. Table-3 shows a clear-cut percentage of 8.7, 41.23 and 29.58 respectively
picture of number of rural families living below to the total number of rural families in the district.
poverty line of Rs.11.000/- on the basis of their Column-3 of the table reveals the picture of Orissa
occupation pattern in the district as well as in the in respect of each occupation category.
state. From the table we find that, there are 7,631
Occupations in Gajapati district and in Orissa (as per 1992 survey)
Occupations Region
Gajapati District Orissa
1 2 3
Small Farmers 7631 (8.7) 660258 (12.64)
Marginal Farmers 36148 (41.23) 1786024 (34.19)
Agricultural Labourers 25934 (29.58) 1144438 (21.91 )
Non-Agricultural Labourers 9488 (10.82) 360842 (6.91)
40
Rural Artisans. 679 (0.77) 107331 (2.05)

Others 360 (0.41) 51541 (0.99)
Grand Total Rural Families 87684 (100) 5223124 (100)
Source: Panchayati Raj Department, Government of Orissa. Segment-3: Performance of major welfare
schemes:
A number of welfare schemes both state by I.T.D.A. upto March- 2004 is derived in
sponsored or centrally sponsored or combined Table-4. From the table, we will find that, I.T.D.A.
are implemented in the state from time to time in has helped the tribals in improving of their socio-
order to improve the living condition of the poor economic condition by providing credit facility in
people of the state. Some of them are analysed seven main occupational categories. The agency
below in respect of Gajapati district. so for assisted a total of 587 poor families in the
(i) Performance of ITDA: year 2003-2004 by providing Rs.1,22,43,034 as
loan amount out of its own fund with an subsidy
Tribals constitute the major portion in the district. of Rs.54,39,624 Sl.No.5 of the said table shows
Out of the seven blocks, five of them - Gumma, per family average subsidy released by ITDA
Rayagada, R. Udayagiri, Mohana, and Nuagada under its various activity where as Sl. No.6
are highly tribal populated. Hence the district of reveals structure or per family bank loan
Gajapati comes under the preview of Integrated sanctioned for each, scheme, Similarly, Sl.No.7
Tribal Development Agency (I.T.D.A.). Detailed shows average investment amount under each
information on various welfare activities promoted category in the district of Gajapati.
Table-4 Coverage under ITDA Gajapati (Mav-2004) (Bankable Schemes)

Sl. Activity / Land / Goatary Diesel Industrial RTS Rice Mill Plantation Total
No. Achievement package/ pump sets service (Group (gullers)
plough / business finance)
1. Total no. of
families aritsted 153 126 53 208 30(Group) 12 5 587
2. Total amount of
loan sanctioned
(in Rs.) 3060000 2520000 1060000 4160000 1103034 240000 100000 12243033
3. Total amount of
subsidy given by
ITDA (in Rs.) 1436160 1149159 529955 1779350 375000 120000 90000 5439624
4. Total loan sanc-
tioned by the
Bank (in Rs.) 1436160 1149159 529955 1779350 728034 120000 50000 3792658
41
5. Per family avg.

subsidy released
by ITDA (in Rs.) 9387 9120 9999 8554 12500 10000 10000
6. Per family back
loan sanctioned 9387 9110 9999 8554 24268 10000 10000
7. Avg. investment
per family (Rs) 18774 18240 19998 17109 36768 20000 20000
Note: Unit cost for each scheme is Rs.20000 except R.T.S.C finance, which is Rs.2,50,000.
Source: ITDA, Parlakhemundi, Gajapati.
(ii) Indira Awas Yojana: 2003-2004, engaging in different activities. In
The lndira Awas Yojana (IAY) was Phase-II of SGRY, various construction works
started in the year 1985-86 as a sub-plan of has been so far undertaken under which a total
RLEGP. The basic objective of the scheme is to amount of Rs.542.27/- lakh has been utilized in
construct houses for the poorest people of various construction work such as roads,
scheduled caste/scheduled tribe communities and drainage, sewage etc. creating a total of 12.09
the free bonded labour (since 1993-94 the plan lakh man days in the district.
extended to all BPL families). During its long more (iii) SGSY :
than 20 years of operation, a number of Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana
modifications has been done from time to time (SGSY) is implemented on April 1, 1999 with an
and at present working as a full-fledged objective to stimulate rural mass by providing them
programme since 1996. Under this yojana, out financial and technical assistance. In the district
of 2251 targeted houses in 2003-2004 a total of of Gajapati a sum of Rs.102.66/- lakh has been
1862 houses are so far constructed successfully so far sanctioned by covering 1469 swarojgaries
whereas rest houses are under construction. A out of the targeted number of 1434 persons in
total amount of Rs.44.71/- lakh is received and the year 2003-2004 under the SGSY scheme.
also invested in the year 2003-2004 for
upgradation of houses, under which a total of 431 (iv) PMGY :
houses are upgraded in the district. Beside these, Pradhan Mantri Gramodaya Yojana
Rs.22.670 lakhs has so tar received (central (PMGY) was implemented in the year 2000-
assistance of Rs.17.025 lakhs and state share of 2001 with an aim to meet five basic requirements
Rs.5.67 lakh) whereas Rs.23.76 lakh has been like-primary education, health drinking water,
utilized covering 89 beneficiaries under the grant housing and rural roads. Under the scheme a total
for special assistance for flood in the district. amount of Rs.33.59/- lakh is sanctioned in the
(iii) SGRY : district out of which, a sum of Rs.33.19/- lakh is
so far invested benefiting 104 numbers of homes.
SGRY scheme is in operation in the
district in two phases. Under SGRY-I a total Besides these other important schemes
amount of Rs.66S.36 lakh has so far utilized out like Annapurna Anna Yojana, Antyodaya Anna
of the sanction of Rs.684.74 lakh, creating a total Yojana, Mid-day Meal Scheme, Programmes for
of 10.30 lakh man-days in the district in the year ICDS, Old Age Pension Schemes (NOAPS and
42
OAPS), disable pension schemes, Pradhanmantri and tertiary sector (like health, transport and
Gram Sadak Yojana and many more programmes communication, education etc.). Hence an
are in full-fledged progress in the district of integrated approach in all these sectors is the need
Gajapati in a forward mood to cope with the of the hour for all round development of the
requirements of poor masses. district. Again to reduce the higher concentration
Conclusion and Suggestions: of rural poverty, adequate funds should be
diverted to the rural development programmes
To conclude, Gajapati district is found to by rectifying/ modifying the loopholes and
be one of the poorest districts in the state. The problems that are associated in the presently
incidence of poverty is more in tribal concentrated functioning rural development programmes.
regions of the district. From the occupation pattern
and income categories, it is found that the Notes:
proportion of rural families living below the poverty 1. Gadgil, D.R. The Industrial Evolution of India in
line is much higher in the district. In income Recent Times, 1860-1939, Oxford University Press,
category, particularly, more percentage of Bombay, 1971.
population are concentrated on very-very poor 2. Pradhan, N.B. Economic Backwardness and
category, while in occupation structure, marginal development of Orissa, Ph. D Thesis
farmers proportion is high in the district. The inter- (Unpublished) submitted to Berhampur University,
district comparison in level of living indicates ranks Orissa, 1979.
the district in 21st place narrating in lower middle References
category. Again the performance of various
1. Allaona, Z., "India-Achievement and Challenges
welfare activities both self employment and wage in Reducing Poverty", Th e World Bank,
employment programmes even through to some Washington. D.C.
extent are working smoothly but not satisfactory
2. District Statistical Hand Book, Gajapati (1999),
which of course due to a number of reasons and Directorate of E & S, Bhubaneswar .
difficulties in the process of operation.
3. Fact Book on Manpower, Series-v, Directorate of
In the light of above findings, it can be E & S, Orissa.
suggested that appropriate efforts should be made 4. Kar, G.C. and R.K. Meher (2001), "An Evaluation of
to reduce the incidence of poverty in the district anti-poverty programmes in Koraput district of
though implementation of appropriate regional Orissa", NCD, Bhubaneswar. .."An evaluation of
policies. To improve the living conditions of the the Anti-poverty Programmes in Nawrangpur
people-particularly to the tribal mass, economic district of Orissa (Mimeo)", NCDS, Bhubaneswar.
growth is necessary. As we have, when the 5. Mahendra, Dev. S. (1992), "Rural Poverty of India:
economy grows, poverty diminishes faster than In cidence, Issues, an d policies", Asian
growth is stronger, slower when it is not. For this, Development Review, Vol. 10, No.1.
the values of the development indicators like 6. Panda, B.K. (1996), Consumption Pattern in Orissa:
literacy rate, per capita income, infant revival rate, An Econometr ic Analysis, Ph. D Th esis
per capita food grain production, per capita net (Unpublished) submitted to Berhampur University,
Orissa.
value added by the manufacture, etc. need to be
improved through appropriate and adequate 7. Pradhan, Ajay Kumar and Dr. Pradhan, N.B., "Socio-
investment in the sectors like agriculture, industry Economic Development of Juanga of Keonjhar
43
District in Orissa", Ph.D. submitted to Berhampur 12. Sarangi, P. (2004), Consumption and Poverty in
University, 2003. Orissa : An Econometric Analysis M.Phil
(unpublished) dissertation submitted to Berhampur
8. Pradhan, N.B. (1979), Economic Backwardness and
University, Orissa.
development of Orissa, Ph. D Thesis (Unpublished)
submitted to Berhampur University, Orissa. 13. Sarangi, P. and Penthoi, G.C. (2005) "Economic
Implications of Natural Disasters in Orissa: A
9. Sahu, B.K. (1997), Poverty, Anti-poverty
Retrospective View", Orissa Review, June.
Programmes and Rural change- A Study of Selected
Tribal Villages in Phulbani, Ph.D Th esis 14. Various Economic Surveys.
(Unpublished) Submitted to Berhampur University,
Orissa.
10. Sarangi, Prasant, "Gajapati-An Economic Profile"
published in "Cultural Heritage of Gajapati"
Vyasakabi Fakirmohan Smruti Sadan, Bhubaneswar. Prasant Sarangi and Satyabrata Pattanaik are Research
11. Sarangi, Prasant, "Self Help Groups -An Experiment Scholars in the P.G. Department of Economics,
in Orissa" Kurukshetra, February, 2003. Berhampur University, Berhampur.
Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik paying tributes to late Biju
Patnaik at Swargadwar, Puri on 17.4.2006. Shri Maheswar Mohanty,
Hon'ble Speaker, Orissa Legislative Assembly and Shri Prasanna Kumar
Patsani, M.P. are also present.
44
Changing Faces of Business

B. N. Biswal
Historical Development of Business not given for pursuing business. It is because, in

Historically business is as old as civilization. the past, business career was not socially
Archaeological records show that by 5000 BC approved to be honourable one and uneducated
merchants in the Mesopotamian valleys of the person and backward sections of the society
Tigris and Eyphrates rivers knew a good deal practiced such activities.
about business techniques. Ancient India is famous Need for the Study
for its rich trade and commerce. In Orissa too,
The age-old beliefs are changed now. The
the myths of "Sadhabo", "Balijatra" etc., reveal
rapid growth of industries, development of
the flourished business.
commerce and management education, financial
Business is a form of activity pursued sector reforms, globalisation, etc., made the
primarily with the objective of earning profit. It is business career as one of the best choices in
an enterprise which makes, distributes or provides modern life. The objective of the present study is
any article or service which other members of the to analyse the problems and prospects of business
community need and are able and willing to pay enterprises in Nabarangpur town through a sample
for it. survey so that the students can have first hand
Part of the Society information about the business enterprises.
Moreover, the survey and the preparation of the
Keith Davis and Robert Blomstorm have
report will be helpful to the students in their future
observed that 'business is a social institution
higher studies.
performing a social mission and having a broad
influence on the way people live and work About Nabarangpur Town
together'. Every business enterprise is a part of Nabarangpur is the headquarter of
the society. It operates within the society, and Nabarangpur district. It is one of the oldest
exists primarily to satisfy its needs. It has an municipalities in the state of Orissa, covering a
inseparable position in the very social system. geographical area of 8.26 Sq.kms. with 4847
Business, as a subject of formal study residential houses. As per 1951 census, the
deserves attention and acquires importance in our population of the town was 7302, which increased
society because the largest number of people to 10380 in 1961, 13739 in 1971, 23519 in 1991
remain engaged in this branch of human activity. and to 27975 in 2001. Females constitute 47.36
But, despite its influence, adequate attention was percent of the town. The literate persons number
45
is 18782 of which females are 8196. The literacy of three factors of production, viz., land, labour
percentage of the town is 67.14 of which male and capital. These three factors constitute the
literacy is 71.89 percent and female literacy is edifice of business enterprises. Proper
61.87 percent. coordination of these three factors is the task of
Business is one of the main sources of the entrepreneur.
livelihood of the people of the town . More than Source of Finance
50 percent of the main workers are engaged in When a business entrepreneur seriously
trade and commerce, household industries, conceives the idea of setting up an enterprise, he
transport, manufacturing industries and other investigates the commercial success of the idea.
related services. Once he is satisfied with the feasibility of the
About the Sample project the next immediate step is to decide the
We have covered 157 business enterprises quantum of capital that would be needed and in
in our survey which belongs to 51 categories of what form to run the business. Finance is the
business. The largest number of units covered lifeblood of business and needed at every stage
belong to grocery shops (14) followed by gifts of the business. The sources of finance are broadly
and stationery (11) and pan shops (11). The next divided into two categories -internal and external.
business group in which a sizable number of units Internal finance is arranged by the entrepreneur
covered are cloth (10) and automobiles himself whereas external finance is obtained from
(8) followed by STD and Xerox (7) hardware financial institutions like banks, money lenders,
(7) and shoe stores (6). Then comes books and friends or relatives.
stationery (5) and hotels (4). A few units of In our survey, it is revealed that 71
medical stores, rice mills, utensil stores, vegetable respondents started their business with own capital
stores were also covered. Thus, the range of accounting for 45.22 percent whereas 55
business enterprises covered in the survey is wide respondents constituting 35 percent obtained it
and touches almost all the types business carried from external sources like banks. Thirty one
on in the town. respondents arranged their capital from internal
Methodology of Data Collection as well as external sources (19.75%)
Sources No. of Business Percentage
The data is collected through a of Finance Enterprises
questionnaire covering six aspects namely: Owned 71 45.22
(1) general information of the respondent,
Borrowed 55 35.03
(2) source of finance, (3) source of motivation,
(4) type of business, (5) satisfaction and Both 31 19.75
(6) suggestion to the youngsters. Five groups have Labour
been formed with five students in each group and
Availability of cheap, abundant and skilled
each group is guided by a teacher.
labour is the second important factor responsible
Requisites of Business for successful business. The following table reveals
Business enterprises, big or small, old or the number of persons employed by the surveyed
new, primitive or modern, require coordination enterprises:
46
Persons employed by the Enterprises businessmen are fearing to enter into the field for
No. of No. of Percentage this problem. The local municipality is constructing
Workers Enterprises stalls but the businessmen are complaining that
they are allotted to the outsiders at high cost. A
No workers 61 38.85 new entrepreneur is unable to afford these
1 -3 69 43.95 accommodations.
4-6 14 08.92 OTHER FACTORS
7- 9 04 02.55 0 1. Reasons for opting business
10 and above 09 05.73 The popular Sanskrit Sloka "Banijye Basati
Laxmi" amply shows the reason for entering
The above table reveals that around 31 business sector. Maintenance of livelihood by
percent enterprises are working without any earning profit is the driving force behind entry into
additional hand, around 44 percent enterprises business. Apart from this, there are other reasons
employed workers between 1 and 3 and around for opting business which are revealed in the
6 percent organizations employed persons more following table:
that 10. Most of the organizations expressed their
dissatisfaction over the availability of skilled Reasons for choosing business line
labour. Another important point they raised is the Reason No. of Percentage
non-availability of accounting assistants with enterprises
knowledge on VAT.
Livelihood 89 56.69
Accommodation
To earn more
Proper accommodation is another money 26 16.56
significant criteria for success of a business
enterprise. In our survey we came to know that Time pass 10 06.37
the businessmen are facing acute problems in Prestige 13 08.28
obtaining the accommodation. As there are no Ancestral 19 12.10
industrial estates, specific industrial areas, new
businessmen find it difficult to arrange a proper It is revealed in our survey that 56.69
accommodation for their enterprises. The percent of the entrepreneurs entered the field with
following table explains the status of ownership the objective of earning livelihood. Around 17
of the shops : percent opted it for earning more money whereas
12 percent started as it is ancestral. It is interesting
Ownership of Premises to say that 6 percent opted it for time pass and
No. of enterprises Percentage around 8 percent chose this for prestige sake.
Rented 123 78.34 02. Source of Motivation
Owned 034 21.66 What motivates a businessman to enter into
In our survey, most of the businessmen said business is revealed in the previous table and now
that they are unable to expand their business we are presenting the source of motivation or who
because of lack of proper accommodation. New motivated them in the following table:
47
Source No. of business Percentage are studied up to 10th class. Even technical degree
enterprises holders and post graduates are there in the
Self 118 75.17 business line.
Parents 35 22.29 04. Age of the Businessmen
Friends 2 01.27 In our study we inquired about the age of the

businessmen in the town and the following table
Relatives 2 01.27 reveals the present position :
The above table says that self-confidence Age No. of Percentage
is the primary source of motivation for entering Respondents
the business field. More than one third of the
respondents said that they are self-determined and Less than 20 04 02.55
self-starting in nature. Around 22 percent of the 21- 30 48 30.57
respondents said that their parents encouraged 31- 40 56 35.67
them to choose this field. 41- 50 29 18.47
03. Literacy Levels 51- 60 14 08.92
There is a belief that only uneducated 61-70 05 03.18
persons prefer business. The following table 70 & above 01 00.64
shows the literacy levels of the respondents:
Young persons dominate the business field
Level of No. of Percentage in Nabarangpur town. Most of our respondents
Educational Business are in the age group of 21 to 40. It is positive
Qualification Enterprises aspect that proves the preference of the
Illiterate 14 08.90 youngsters.
Up to 5th Class 11 07.05 05. Future Plan
Up to 10th Class 51 32.48 Without ambition no project runs
successfully for ever. To know whether business
Up to Intermediate 22 14.00
is a temporary career or dedicated line of
Up to Degree 48 30.57 livelihood opted by the respondents we have
Diploma holders 04 02.55 questioned respondents about their future plan and
the following table gives the details:
Technical Degree 04 02.55
holders Plan No. of Percentage
respondents
Post Graduates 03 01.90
Expansion 123 78.35
The table revealed that business is no more
an area suitable for uneducated persons. Switchover to 29 18.47
Nowadays, educated youngsters prefer business other business
as a career. In our respondents around 31 percent Closure of 05 03.18
of the respondents are graduates and 33 percent business
48
Most of the respondents are in favour of in our study, as majority of the respondents
expansion of their business where as only three are well educated. Even post graduates are
percent expressed their willingness to close their entering business field and quite satisfied
business. with the field.
Conclusion: ¨ Majority of the entrepreneurs expressed
¨ Capital is one of the most important satisfaction on the business carried on by
prerequisites to establish a business them. Only 3.18 percent of the respondents
enterprise. Normally, the capital for a said that they are going to close the business
business venture comes from own sources, in the near future.
relatives and friends and term loans from ¨ Even after running successful business
banks. In recent years, institutional lending enterprises, 35 percent of the respondents
has increased rapidly everywhere but in said that they will quit the business if proper
Nabarangpur town it seems not adequate employment is offered to them. This shows
as the data revealed that only 55 percent their inclination towards employment.
respondents received term loans from ¨ Regarding competition majority of the
banks. It may be due to lack of awareness respondents said that it is acute in the
about bank finance or the hindrances in present scenario. They are very much
obtaining the loans from these institutions. cautious about their competitors and
¨ Availability of abundant, cheap and skilled accordingly they are planning their
labour is essential for business enterprises. expansion.
Most of our respondents expressed their ¨ When we asked the question on the present
inability in the procurement of trained man position of transport network in the locality
power. People specifically pointed out that most of the respondents expressed their
they are not getting accounts assistants who dissatisfaction. They said that better
are well versed in VAT procedures. communication facilities are necessary for
¨ After capital and labour the third important further development of the town.
factor of production is land. In
Nabarangpur town it is one of the most ¨ Majority of the entrepreneurs said that
difficult tasks for the traders to find out a honesty and hard work are the two basic
suitable building for their business. The data qualities necessary for a successful business
revealed that 78.34 percent businessmen man.
are doing business in rented premises ¨ Regarding their advise to the youngsters,
whereas 21.66 percent possess owned we received a mixed reaction. About 60
one. Most of them opined that the percent said that they welcome the
Municipality authorities should construct youngsters to the business line whereas 40
more stalls and allot them in a simple, percent advised the youngsters not to opt
affordable and convenient method so that business as a career.
the local traders will get the benefit.
¨ The common belief that business is meant B.N. Biswal is the Head of the Department of Commerce
for the uneducated persons proved wrong in Nabarangpur College, Nabarangpur - 764 063
49
Education of Tribal Children in

Kandhamal District
Raghunath Rath
Education is a continuous process. It starts soon backwardness, social deprivation spreading of

after the birth of a child and ends on death. A education is regarded as one of the most effective
child starts learning as soon as he/she takes birth and forward-looking instruments (Patel : 1991
from his mother and gradually learns from his :26).
parents and the society around, as he/she gets While discussing growth of education in
older. tribal dominated Kandhamal district and the
Education, is a modern word, which is declining trend in education we have to make a
derived from the Latin word 'educase', means to careful study in the grass root level. The district
nourish, to cause to grow (Patel: 1991 : viii). of Kandhamal, formally known as Phulbani is a
Education also prevails in illiterate societies, where centrally located district of Orissa, which is at a
it is imparted orally and by mass behaviour. A higher altitude of 1100 Mtrs. The district is mainly
member of primitive society learns to earn his dominated by scheduled tribe and scheduled
livelihood, to do good works, to obey spiritual caste population. Scheduled tribe population
beings and also superstitions etc from the elders includes tribes like Kandha, Kutia Kandha,
of the society and bind by its laws and regulations. Kandhgouda, Kol, and Soura etc. and scheduled
These are the education for them. castes include mainly panas. Taking the majority
We the modern people do mean "education of the population as Kandhas the district has
as reading and writing. This is also true. By renamed as Kandhamal in 1994 instead of
modern education a person can able to increase Phulbani.
his knowledge and expand his vision and avail As per Census figures of 2001, the total
the fruits or development. Hence modern population of Kandhamal district is 6,48,201, out
education can play the role of "Catalyst" in bringing of which Scheduled Tribe population is 3,36,809
sea changes in the sphere of social, political, (51.98%) and Scheduled Caste population is
economic fields. One of the important reasons 1,09,506( 18.89%) of the total population.
for failure of development activities in the society Almost all the people of the district reside in hilly
by various developmental agendas is the forest areas frequently cut by streams and nalas
prevalence of acute illiteracy and ignorance, without any proper communication facilities. So
combined with superstitions among the rural it can be easily ascertained that most of the people
masses. Hence t o ward off economic maintained very simple and miserable life style
50
amid poverty and illiteracy. The rural population remarkable progress could be achieved till 1854.
of the district comes to 93.19% of the total, Hence the pay of teachers was enhanced from
population. Out of total geographical area of 7650 Rs.15/- to Rs.25/-per month, which could reap
Sq kms, 5709.83 Sq kms or 78.18% covered some good result.
by forest of the district. So the people are Instead of non-conducive attitude of
depending on forests to maintain their livelihood. Kandha inhabitants Government again set up four
Most of them are landless or marginal farmers primary scho ols in 1855-56 in present
hence comes under below poverty line. G.Udayagiri Tahasil area and kept them under
When we go back to the history of direct control of the Assistant Agent for the
education in Kandhamal district it is revealed that Meriah Agency, Russolkonda (present
seeds of education first planted in Balliguda Sub- Bhanjanagara). However, due to constant efforts
Division of the then undivided Ganjam district in by the Government and Missionary agencies,
1851 by Captain Mac Viccar as per decision good results could be noticed towards end of
taken by Henery Pottianger, who was in charge 1860 when the student strength reached up to
of Education Department under Madras 521. Noticeable student strength was marked in
Presidency in 1845. Captain Mac Viccar opened the schools at Sankarakhole, Purunagarh and
Brahmanpad as like as plains schools and the
three schools at different places of the sub-division.
teaching was satisfactory (Behera: 1984: 77).
The places were Kurmingia, Udayagiri and
Mahasinghi, but due to the prevalence of acute In between, 1855 to 1880 many primary
conservative mentality, non-cooperation from the schools were set up in Kandhamal Sub-Division.
nearby inhabitants, the initial steps for education At first stage schools were opened at Phulbani,
was a failure. Another reason of failure of Khajuripara, Titrapanga and Ratanga, which were
education is superstition among the Kandhas. upgraded to upper primary status in 1858. In due
Superstitions like "reading would make their eyes course of time the school at Ratanga was shifted
drop out of their sockets" etc. is also responsible to Bisipada and later it was converted in to Middle
for not spreading of education, so no remarkable Vernacular School. As the administrative
progress could be achieved within next 10 years headquarters was transferred to Phulbani from
(Behera : 1984:76). Bisipada, the said school was replaced to Phulbani
in 1904 and in 1916 it became M.E. school. In
Another reason is that British Education the year 1946 the said school had been upgraded
Policy was responsible for failure of attempts as Higher English School, which is now known
made by Madras Government. The medium of as A.J.O. High School. Angul District Gazetteer
instruction was in Oriya language and unqualified reveals that there were 12 upper primary schools
non-tribal teachers appointed from plains. in Kandhamal Sub-Division till 1908 with Kandha
Kandha students did not accept it due to teachers. But the medium of education was in
superstitious beliefs and other socio economic Oriya language. Hence to attract more Kandha
reasons in G. Udayagiri area. No students went students the then Sub-Divisional Officer Sir O.J.
to schools for reading. Hence schools run in Allenbach directed to prepare school books
miserable conditions. So British Authorities tried written in Roman scripts to express in Kui
to bring students forcibly by Police. Instead of language, the language spoken by Kandhas (Rath:
forcible measures taken by Government no 1993: 25).
51
Lower primary Schools were set up at year 1882, known as Hunter Commission. Lord
Subarnagiri, Kotagarh, Tumudibandha, Belaghar, Curzon organized an all India conference in the
Mundigarh, Budaguda, Balliguda, Barakhama, year 1901 at Simla to review the progress and to
Khamonkhole and Landagaon in 1889 and 1890 find out faults in education, which was the first
of Balliguda Sub-Division exclusively for ST and conference in India in the history of education.
SC students. Government also permitted to set The proceedings of the said conference were
up schools by private management. So the Roman published in 1904, which was known as Curzon's
Catholic and the Baptist Missionaries also Proclamation. That proclamation was an important
attempted to set up more schools to meet the document where emphasis was given regarding
requirement. Accordingly O.J. Millman, a Baptist Syllabus, appointment of teachers and monetary
Missionary set up a school in 1914 at Gudripadi assistance to schools and the importance of the
near G.Udayagiri (Boal : 1963: 61). provincial Governments to promote mass
As Government experienced, acute caste education. Administrative reformation law by
discrimination prevailing among the students as Montague Chelmsford was published in the year
well as parents, the Govt. was forced to set up 1919, where complete responsibility was laid
separate schools for ST and SC students. down for education on provincial Governments.
Statistical data reveals that there were 42 schools Hence Education Act of Madras Presidency was
in 1936-37 and 46 schools in 1941-42 meant framed in 1920. Accordingly financial assistance
for ST students, only one school for SC students was provided with to schools regularly and special
in 1941-42 in Kandhamal Sub-Division (Das: responsibility was also given to District Boards
1982: 151). and Local Boards. Again Hartog Commission was
set up in 1929 where emphasis was given to
A High School was set up at Tikabali in
promote mass education and to eradicate
the year 1939 and later shifted to G.Udayagiri in
wastage and stagnation problem.
the year 1944, which is still functioning and known
as Hubback High School. Christian Missionaries also took an
important role for development of education in
Lord Dalhousie, the then Viceroy of British
backward classes of this district. Schools have
India appointed Mr. Charles Wood who was the
been set up at Mandasaru, Katingia and at some
Chairman of Board of Controll on 19th July 1853
to review the progress of education in India and other places to educate the backward classes.
to suggest way-out for its improvement and to Missionaries also created awareness among the
frame new laws and regulations. Accordingly, he tribals towards education.
had submitted his report in the year 1854, which Schools were also set up for ST and SC
was known as Woods' Despatch. As such post students by Tribal Welfare department of
of Director of Public Instructions was created in Government of Orissa after independence. The
Bombay, Bengal and in Madras presidency dream of Hon'ble Thakar Bappa the first
exclusively to look after development of residential school of Orissa of Tribal Welfare
education. As suggested in Wood's Despatch, the Department was opened at Nuagam of
medium of instruction should be in mother Kandhamal district in the year 1947. Later many
language. schools were set up by welfare department in this
Another Commission was also set up for district. There are 11 and 4 High Schools and 6
reformation and development of education in the and 1 M.E. Schools from class I to VII for boys
52
and girls respectively exclusively for ST and SC teams to find out faults and remedies for
students. For primary education there are 9 development of education from time to time,
residential and 88 non-residential Sevashramas These also helped a lot to eliminate the lacuna
in the district under the management of Welfare and faults pointed out in those reports and to
Department in the year 2003-2004. In 2003-04 guide properly.
education year 3280 boys and 820 girls are Instead of several attempts taken since pre-
reading staying in hostels of residential schools, independence, it is a great regret that after 57,
while 6415 boys and 4415 girls are getting their years of independence, India could not achieve
education in non-residential schools managed by her 100 % literacy in Orissa, the poverty stricken
Welfare Department in the district (Giri Jhankar : state yet attained 63.61% literacy till 2001. Tribal
2004: 83). district of Orissa is far behind from the national
Though British Authorities, in pre- and state literacy rate. So is the fate of Kandhamal
independent period took steps to develop also. Tribal literacy rate with total literacy rate
education, it was quite inadequate. After from 1961 to 2001 as per census reports of
independence native Government attempted Kandhamal is as follows.
vigorously to educate all children within the age
group of 6 to 14 years as per provision laid down
Percentage of Literacy rate

Census Total Population Scheduled Tribe
Year Male Female Total Male Female Total
1961 N.A N.A. 17.69 N.A. N.A. 11.82
1971 N.A. N.A. 19.79 N.A. N.A. 12.37
1981 41.96 11.26 27.08 18.59 4.74 18.59
1991 54.68 19.82 37.03 38.32 9.21 27.49
2001 69.98 36.10 52.95 N.A. N.A. N.A.
(Source: District Statistical Hand Book, Kandhamal for the year 1997, 1999, 2001) .
in article 45 and 46 of the Indian Constitution. So The percentage of literacy of Kandhamal

time to time committees, commissions and district could not compete with state average due
working groups were set up by Government of to low-income level and backwardness of the
India to suggest ways to attain the goal. Those people.
committees, commissions and, working groups
This district having no industry at all and
recommended their well-thought, valuable
for which the main source of income of the people
suggestions for all-round development of
is cultivation and collection of forest products, the
education including Tribal and Backward classes.
literacy rate of tribal people is unsatisfactory. The
The Government of Orissa also organized above table shows that in five consecutive
workshops, seminars, survey and evaluation decades, the literacy rate of tribal has increased
53
by two and half times though the literacy rate of total population increased about four and half times.
Percentage of tribal women literacy is alarming.
The Present scenario of education of Kandhamal district could be judged from the following
tables.
Primary Education
Year No. of Total S.T. No of Teachers Students
Schools Students Students Male Female Total Teachers
Ratio
1996-97 1248 76816 38554 1984 546 2530 30.36
1997-98 1348 73863 40778 1943 602 2545 29.02
1998-99 1519 92048 47306 2714 844 3558 25.87
1999-00 1288 86545 46046 2058 637 2695 32.11
2000-01 1297 95163 53222 2069 642 2711 35.10
(Source: District Statistical Hand Book, Kandhamal for the year 1997, 1999, 2001)
The above table indicates that in comparison with 1996-97, student enrolment increased by
18347 students in 2000-2001. Only 48 more Schools and 81 more teachers were appointed within
this period. Round about a primary school serves only 5.89 Sq kms and about 2 villages.
M.E. Education
Ratio
1996-97 212 25827 10614 758 176 934 27.65
1997-98 225 28150 9879 779 192 971 28.99
1998-99 244 16782 8905 515 167 682 24.60
1999-00 215 19036 8144 692 215 907 20.98
2000-01 217 22607 10195 705 224 929 24.33
About 12 villages are served by one M.E. School and cover an area of 35.25 Sq kms. In
comparison from 1996-97 to 2000-2001, student strength was decreased to 3220 and five posts of
teachers also fell vacant in 2000-2001 then 1996-97. Five more schools were established within this
period.
54
Secondary Education
Ratio
1996-97 76 15781 6585 591 148 739 21.35
1997-98 76 12216 5265 575 148 723 16.89
1998-99 82 14498 6208 602 151 753 19.25
1999-00 86 17317 7288 551 181 732 23.65
2000-01 88 18517 7873 567 166 733 25.26
(Source: District Statistical, Hand Book, Kandhamal for the year 1997, 1999, 2001)
In High School level, student enrollment increased with 2736 whereas six posts of teachers
remained vacant in 2000-2001 then in 1996-97. In this period 12 more schools were opened. A High
School serves about 29 villages and covers an area of 86.93 Sq kms.
College Education
Ratio
1996-97 11 4740 1060 161 33 194 24.43
1997-98 11 4892 1010 163 25 188 26.02
1998-99 11 4524 1066 163 25 188 24.06
1999-00 11 4757 1357 193 23 216 22.02
2000-01 11 4177 1228 189 26 215 19.42
There is no increase of Colleges during 1288 more tribal students and in college only 168
1996-97 to 2000-2001. Enrollment of 563 more tribal students were admitted during this
students were less in the year 2000-2001, but period.
21 posts of teachers were increased. A college It is ascertained from the above discussion
serves about 229 villages and covers an area of that tribal student enrollment in comparison to total
695.45 Sqkms. student enrollment is 55.92% in primary level,
During 2000-2001 in primary level 14668 45.09% in M.E.level, 45.51% in High School
more tribal students were enrolled than in 1996- level and 29.39% in College level in the year
97, but in M.E. level enrollment was less by 419 2000-2001. It seems that a big portion of tribal
tribal students within this period. In High Schools, students are not going to M.E. level from primary
55
level. Likewise most tribal students could not go drop out is on increasing trend which has been
for college education from high school level. This explained below in table and with the graphical
happens only for t he socio-economic representation.
backwardness of tribals. Statistical figures are Increase in Dropout
prepared basing on total district data. But the (From primary to college)
position is worst in the blocks like Kotagarh,
Tumudibandha, Daringbadi and Phiringia. There Year Primary College Dropout
is no college in Kotagarh and Khajuripada Blocks. 1996-97 76816 4740 72076
The family status and environment of tribals of
1997-98 73863 4892 68971
Kandhamal district does not permit their children
for education. Hence about 1/5 of the students of 1998-99 92048 4524 87524
primary level are enrolling in M.E. level and above 1999-00 86545 4757 81788
classes. Though in the year 2000-2001 enrollment
was 53222 in primary level, in College level only 2000-01 95163 4177 90986
1228 tribal students were enrolled. This shows There are certain important reasons for the
that in each level of school education drop out drop out problem in the district.
among the tribal students are numerous. The
The first and most important reason is the
following table and graph will indicate the decline
prevailing economic backwardness. We know
trend of enrolment.
that majority of the people in the district are poor
Enrolment of Students in various levels of Education
and who spend most of their times in doing small
Year Primary M.E. Secondary C oll eg e
level le v e l level level
jobs and marginal farming, where children are also
taking part. So financial difficulties create major
1996-97 67816 25827 15781 4740
hindrances for them for sending their children for
1997-98 73863 28150 12216 4892
studies.
1998-99 92048 16782 14498 4524
1999-00 86545 19036 17317 4757 Secondly, ignorance and superstitions play
a major set back for spread of education in the
2000-01 95163 22607 18517 4177
district. People of the remote area are superstitious
In my study I have already shown about and addicted to blind beliefs. So they do not
the slow growth of education and educational understand the value of education.
institutions in Kandhamal District as well as the
Thirdly, a vital reason for the drop out
increasing trend in establishing primary schools. I
problem of tribal students is their prevailing
have also seen that the educational institutions in
cultural process and life style, which hardly creates
primary level have increased resulting in increase
conducive environment for spreading of education.
in student's enrollment. The number of enrollment
Some festivals like Kedu-Laka or Buffalo
has decreased significantly in the later stages of
Sacrifice of Kandhas lasts for seven days and
higher education, which, in other hand speaks
Anaka Puja of Kutia Kandhas continues for about
about the increasing drop out problem.
a month in different villages of the area. The
Though the establishment of primary parents of the tribal students do not allow them
schools by Government and private agencies is to attend the school during that period. There are
quite noticeable in recent years the problem of no specific Government sanctioned holidays for
56
tribals of the state to be observed by the There are many other minor reasons for
educational institution unlike other communities drop out of tribal students. If this type of process
enjoy. Hence tribal students remain absent in the will continue and slow progress of literacy rate
school during their festive occasions, when there will prevail then the very purpose of fundamental
is no holiday. For this reason tribal students are right to education as per 86th amendment of
lagging behind in studies from their non-tribal Constitution will be defeated.
counterparts. The Constitution of India was introduced
Another point for the drop-out problem is in 1950 and there was a pious aim to educate all
health. The poverty of tribal people doesn't permit children from the age group of 6 to 14 years by
them to keep clean their home environment. They 1965. But it was failed. Government from time to
don't get nutritious food. So tribal children often time fixed a target year for achievement of 100%
fall ill. The parents could not treat them timely literacy. Again, the year 2000 was targeted to
due to economic scarcity. So they suffer for a achieve the goal. It was also unsuccessful. About
long period. During suffering the child remains 40 years have already been elapsed since 1965,
absent from school and after recovering from but the goal is not attained. We have to again wait
illness he loses his appetite for study. for at least 150 years to get cent percent result if
the progress of tribal education will continue at
However there are few other reasons,
the present rate.
which may also be responsible for drop-out
problem of tribal students. But it is a good sign that District Primary
Education Project assisted by the D.F.I.D. has
1. The medium of teaching i.e., Oriya language
been lunched in Kandhamal district since the year
is a foreign language for the tribal children.
2000. A survey was conducted in the year 2000
2. Non-tribal teachers are posted to schools to identify children from age group of 6 to 14 by
located at tribal areas, who are not aware the D.P.E.P. It reveals that there are 1,21,563
of tribal cultural values. (boys-64655 and girls-56908) children are
3. Absence of tribal cultural and regional coming within the category, out of which 30916
materials in class books. (boys-15024 and girls-15992) are not admitted
in to schools. There are no schools in 906 villages
4. The school environment does not attract till 2003 (Smaranika : 2003: 31). Steps are being
the tribal students. taken to set up schools and E.G.S. centres in
5. Some schools ate not having their own D.P.E.P. programme. Accordingly 57 primary
buildings. schools and 549 E.G.S. centres in the said
programme are set up till end of 2003. Sarba
6. Schools having single teacher.
Sikhya Abhiyana has also been introduced in the
7. Teachers in interior pockets neglecting in district from 15.08.2003. This programme will
duties. continue till 2010 while D.P.E.P. programme will
8. Irregular supply of mid-day meals. be ended by 2007 (Giri, Jhankara : 2004 :
92-93).
9. Lack of communication facility.
But we should bear in mind that the survey
10. Untimely supply of study materials. conducted previously is not the end of the goal.
57
Every year some children will attain the age of 6 11. All N.G.Os functioning in the district may
and will be added to the previous survey. They be involved in the process to educate all
should carefully be enumerated and should be children from 6 to 14 years.
taken in to account unless the very purpose of
12. Training at intervals to the Non-tribal
the above schemes will be defeated.
teachers about the tribal culture and
If D.P.E.P. and Sarba Sikhya Abhiyana language should be provided.
will be worked out whole-heartedly by every
These suggestions may be introduced in a
concerned it could be hoped that cent percent
war footing manner and all concerned from
achievement could be achieved by 2010 in the
parents, teachers to Heads of the district must
field of education in Kandhamal District.
work whole-heartedly to achieve cent percent
To achieve the goal at a short span of time education to all children from 6 to 14 years within
following recommendations may be adopted. a limited span of time and bring a sea change in
1. Study books must be prepared in tribal their society to bring the tribal in to the mainstream.
language up to upper primary level. I may sum up with words of Swami
2. Teachers from the same tribe and from the Vivekananda-
nearby villages if possible from the same The only service to be done for our lower
village should be appointed. classes is to give them education; to develop their
3. There must be a school in each village. lost individuality, give them ideas-that is the only
help they require and then the rest must follow as
4. More M.E. schools should be opened in
the effect. Ours is to put the chemicals together,
tribal areas.
crystallization comes in the law of nature . Now
5. Every school must be well-equipped with if the mountain cannot come to Mohammed,
all study materials. Mohammed must go to the mountain. If the poor
6. Tribal students must be supplied with study boy cannot come to education, education must
materials and dresses free of cost. go to him.
7. Pucca building must be provided to every This is true and has its relevance till the
school. present day, which may be followed strictly.
8. Teachers must be paid regularly with free Bibliography :
accommodation facility in school campus. 1. Behera, D., 1984 - Freedom Movement in the
State of Ghumsar in Orissa, Calcutta.
9. Responsibility may be laid down to teachers
for enrollment of all children from the age 2. Boal, Barbara M., 1963 - The churches in Kond
Hills - An Encounter with Animism. The National
group of 6 to 14 years and not allow Christian Council of India, Nagpur.
dropouts at any circumstances.
3. Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Orissa,
10. Each parent must be motivated to send Bhubaneswar. District Statistical Hand Book,
their children above six years to school or Kandhamal - For the Year 1997, 1999, 2001.
teachers and parents may be legally bound 4. Government of Orissa, 1983-Gazetteer of Boudh-
to do this task. Kandhamal District.
58
5. Government of Orissa, T.W. Department, 10. Panda, Om Prakash. 2003 - Sarba Janina
Bhubaneswar. 1994- Tribal Education in Orissa - Prathamika Sikshya O D.P.E.P. Kandhamal
in the context of Education for all by 2000 A.D. - Mahotsava Smaranika.
A Status paper.
11. Bishi, Khageswar. 2004-Kandhamal Sikshya
6. Patel, S. 1991- Tribal Education in India - Mittal Byabasthare Kalyan Bibhagara Bhumika - Giri
Publications, New Delhi. Jhankar.
7. Juneja, Nalini. 2004- Free and Compulsory 12. Rath, Raghunath, 1993-Kandha Sanskrutira
Education (Draft) Bill 2004 - The challenge for Analochita Adhyaya-Satta Sahitya Sansada,
the rural areas - Kurukshetra, Vol.52 No.11. Koraput.
8. Agragami - Derakumpa, Kandhamal - 2002 -
Adibashi Anchalare Prathamika Sikshya
Smaranika.
9. Das, Kali Kumar. 1982 - Odisare Prathamika
Sikshya - Odisa Rajya Pathya Pustaka Pranayana Raghunath Rath lives at Revenue Colony, Balliguda,
Sanstha, Bhubaneswar Kandhamal - 762103.
His Excellency the Governor of Orissa Shri Rameshwar Thakur after

inaugurating the "Odisa Utsav" going around the stalls at New Delhi.
Shri Raghuvansh Prasad Singh, Hon'ble Union Minister, Rural Development
and Shri Debasis Nayak, Minister, Informaiton & Public Relations, Sports
and Youth Services are also present.
59
Relevance of Folk Theatres in Modern Times

Indu Bhusan Kar
If we look to origin and evolution of folk theatre, Lilas, Daskathia, Geetabhinaya of

we have to admit that this theatrical tradition is Baisnab Pani,Mughal-tamsa, Prallhad natak,
interlinked with human civilization. In the Vedic Dandanatya, Ravanachhaya (puppet theatre),
period, people had developed potential artistic Desianata, Palas, Suanga and Chhau are
qualities like songs,dance and many religious considered to be the major forms which are still
rituals to express their emotions, hope and popular in rural areas on festival occasions. The
aspirations. Bharat Muni, the first dramatourgist royal patronage by Kings and Zamindars gave
codified the art of dramatourgy in his famous
moral boosting and incentive to folk artists to
treatise called 'Natyasastra'. In Orissa the
develop folk theatre troupes, but after abolition
historians and drama critics opine that "Arena
Theatre" was prevalent in the days of Emperor of Kings and Zamindars, these professional folk
Kharavela in 1st century A.D. Dhiren Das, a noted theatre troupes started languishing and some of
dramatourgist has deciphered the Hatigumpha them are at the verge of extinction. Many talented
inscriptions and categorically emphasized, that artists are deserting troupes and migrating to cities
'Ranigumpha' cave of Khandagiri was an arena for some others employments. There are instances
theatre where people were staging plays from time where some of the theatrical folk forms are no
immemorial in Orissa, the land of art and longer in vogue. In special occasion sporadic
architecture. Many folk forms have been efforts are made to stage folk play once in a year.
developed mainly out of celebrating religious and As for example in north Balasore district to which
social ceremonies. Songs and dances are integral I belong many Palas like Lalita-Pala, Karusana-
ingredients of these folk forms. Each folk form lila which were being performed earlier are no
had its particular community, same language, area longer staged frequently. Many troupes of
and way of life. We find some commonality in Jaleswar, Kamarda, Bhogorai Deula, Baliapal and
each form. Religious movements like Saivism, Chandaneswar of Balasore district have vanished
Hinduism, Jainism and Vaishnavism have shaped
into oblivion. Palas and Lilas are no longer in
thematic contents of these folk forms. The
vogue due to impact of electronic media and
musicality is one of the greatest characteristics of
these folk dramas. The musical instruments deteriorating financial condition of traditional folk
developed indigenously are peculiar features of theatrical troupes. Research scholars have
these folk plays. The instrument used in Daskathia restored many manuscripts of these Palas and Lilas
are different from Lilas of Chhaus. in these areas of north Balasore of Orissa.
60
Dr. Kailas Pattanaik, Dept. of Oriya of enriched modern drama with folk elements.
Viswa Bharati University undertook an in-depth Drama was treated by Brecht a great pulpit of
study of folk form of Lalita Pala in Balasore awakening people's mind. Once Brecht declared
district which has been published in 'Konark' " I wanted to take the principle that it was not just
(Oriya journal of Orissa Sahitya Academi Vol- a matter of interpreting the world but of changing
97, p - 78,Yr-1995). Now time has come to make it, and apply that to the theatre". This Brechtina
a complete survey of all such rural folk theatre dramatic theory and practice gave new shape to
troupes and identify causes of decay and decline epic form of theatre. Many new dramatists after
of the professional theatre troupes. The same is Second World War were influenced by this
the pitiable condition of folk theatre form of Brechtian dramatic theory. The new experiments
'Mughal-tamsa' of Bhadrak, though it was once were made to blend the folk elements with
enjoyed and accepted by the people as the most modern innovation in order to attract greater
thrilling and popular folk form. audience. Having realizing the importance of the
Ideas and taste of the people are changing rich folk theatre Martin Esslin, a renowned drama
fast with march of the time. The popularization of critic's message on world theater day, on 27th
radio, TV and VCR as source of entertainment March 1989, is pertinent irrespective of region,
has diminished the loyalty of the people towards race and religion. In the words of Martin Esslin-
the folk plays. Now aggressive consumerism has "In an age where, the world is flooded by a deluge
mesmerized the people's mind due to advent of of cheap commercially motivated material on
electornic media. At this stage one may ask the television, the live theatre, the guardian of
question of utility and relevance of reviving the traditions and individuality of cultures, threatened
traditional multiple streams of folk plays when, by this avalanche of homogenized triviality and
cinema and TV are giving enough entertainment become more vital to the continued richness and
to the people. The folk drama has got twin variety of human culture than ever before in the
purposes of both entertainment and education. history of mankind" (Published in the 'Canplay' :
Folk theatre has contributed immensely for a magazine of Canadian playwrights associations
creating social consciousness. As for example in Vol-6, No2, April 1989).
Orissa the 'Geetinatya' of Baisnaba Pani played Kapila Vatsyayan a great authority on
greater role spearheading patriotic fervour among performing art has analyzed various forms of
the people during freedom-movement of India. Indian folk plays in her book 'Traditional Indian
Similarly other folk dramas like Prahallad natak, theatre Multiple streams. She has opined that there
Danda, Palas have also enriched people's mind is great importance in reviving. Indian folk pays
with religious virtues. But vulgarization of films, as these plays have contemporary relevance. In
TV serials with overdose of sex and violence are her said book 'Traditional Indian theatre', she
polluting people's mind with main objective of observed "The Yatra forms are an important
giving sensuous pleasure. This new trend in the branch of the parent tree of Indian literatures,
field of entertainment industry causes immense languages and theatre forms. Its survivals appear
sociological hazards. On the other hand, the so- to have thrown seeds, which have given modern
called absurd and experimental plays are creating Bengali theatre a new direction. Like the Bhavai
boredom among the audience. After the Second and the Tamasa it has provided an Indian format
World War the Epic plays of 'Bertold Brecht' to avant-garde theatre, possibly this renowned
61
interest in Yatra was conditioned by the advent garde drama. The critic and the spectators were
of a new form of epic theatre from Europe. Be as charmed and praised the experiment of Habib
it may, the European influence generated an Tanvir. This is a classic example of relevance and
interest in national traditions and this has been a impotence of folk plays, because in his play there
return educational journey home-ward for the was proper assimilation of elements-both the
modern theatre of India" (Traditional Indian traditional and the modern. Girish Karnad, a
theatre-page 146, published by NBT, New Delhi, Gyanapitha award winner and a celebrated actor
Ist edition 1980). So it is to be admitted that folk dramatist, has also made similar experiment with
plays of India, have played a great role in shaping folk element in his play 'Haybadan' which has
avant grade plays. become a popular play among the people.
Let us have a review of impact of It is now necessary to examine the impact
experiments of blending rich of folk element with of folk theatre on modern Oriya plays and to what
modern Indian palys of three renowned extent playwright have been successful in
playwrights viz; Vijoy Tendulkar, Habib Tanvir and assimilation of folk elements in avant-garde Oriya
Girish Karnad. Vijoy Tendulkar, a well-known drama. Let us evaluate this trend of
dramatist wrote a Marathi play-'Ghasiram experimentation in Oriya modern drama.
Kotwal'. When this play was staged, it charmed
the audience, as proper blending of Marathi folk In Orissa, Manoranjan Das, veteran
music, satire and chorus songs with thematic playwright in his play 'Katha Ghoda' and 'Nandika
contents of the play gave rich entertainment to Kesari', Bijoy Mishra's Jane raja thile', Ramesh
the audience with a dramatic message. This play Panigrahi's 'Mahanatak', Subodha Pattanaik's
was translated into Hindi and a repertory troupe 'Yethu ante', Rati Mishra's 'Abatar', All these
travelled 'with this play to Europe to stage this modern dramas have used Oriya folk elements
play in European cities-like Berlin and London. and also certain forms of folk drama for
This play could enthrall the European audiences. enrichment of the dramatic tradition with a view
'Guardian', the widely circulated journal, praised to attract larger audience. In the words of Niladri
that this Indian play could satisfy the twin Bhusan Harichandan, a dramatist "the playwrights
parameters of good play-which is aesthetic have been successful in bringing plays nearer to
pleasure with a forceful message. 'Guardian' the the audience through this new style. He further
prestigious journal of England remarked that in said- "The avant garde or mordernist Oriya drama
comparing with the modern Indian play, the of today is enriched with an assimilation of
European play looks like a broken mirror. This elements both traditional and the modern. The
high appraisal of success prompted other addition of the forms of enriched with an
playwrights of India to make such experiments of assimilation of elements both traditional and the
blending folk element skillfully with modern modern. The addition of the forms of various
themes. Habib Tanvir the renowned director and Oriya folk dramas even to this combination marks
actor made in-depth study of Chhatisgarh music it off as different from similar developments in
of Madhya Pradesh and dance and he used it in other parts of India" (Aspect of Oriya drama, P-
his play-'Charan Das chor.' Once when this play 131). But some critics observe that this
was played at Paris, the noted directors from experiment is not successful but there are plays
London flew to Paris to witness this Indian avant which have succeeded in this experiment and got
62
audience's clapping. I myself have taken may argue that these are old, archaic, religious
audience's poll and came to conclusion that the and rustic. They are to be rejected on the ground
majority and the spectators have liked Bijoy of modern secularism and they openly utter-"let
Mishra's "Jane raja thile", Subodha Pattanaik's them die, let folk artist perish". We have got VCR,
'Yethu ante' Rati Mishra's "Avatar". These modern films, enough entertainment in 24 hours channels.
Oriya plays have been quite successful because I think, this ultra modernist's negative attitude will
of the proper blending of the folk elements. I am cause immense harm to growth of humanistic
of firm opinion the richness of Oriya folk forms culture for all-round development of human
should be preserved and documented. Patronage personality. So it is high time that we should not
should be given to establish professional troupes allow further vulgarization of Indian culture by
in Orissa. The steps taken in this direction in other inertness, indifference and indolence. We should
states like Bengal, Andhra, Karnatak are really not be swayed away by the lures of electronic
praiseworthy. In Karnatak more than a dozen folk media. We the art-loving Indians are now facing
research institutions have been established by challenges of assault on our language, literature
Government Department of culture. There the and culture due to westernized culture. Letus not
Govt. has taken measures to educate and develop waste time only in theoretical debate as to whether
new generation of artists. But in many states the an art form is folk, traditional, classical and
development of folk theatre is neglected. It is pity modern. Let us understand and diversify cultural
that there are some ultra modernists in tradition, which is to be reflected in the
bureaucracy those who do not favour the contemporary theatre.
preservation, documentation and promotion of
folk theatre.
Now-a-days it has been accepted by
scholars in performing art that there is great
relevance in studying, knowing and preserving Indu Bhusan Kar is the Chairman, Advanced Centre for
these treasure of our Indian folk theatres. Some Indological Studies, Bhubaneswar.
Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik at

the birth anniversary celebration of Maharaja
Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev at
Jayadev Bhawan on 27.4.2006. Shri Surjya
Narayan Patro, Minister, Energy, Tourism and
Information Technology is also present.
63
AUCC Bank Laid to Produce Successful

Entrepreneurs
Choudhury B.K. Das
The strategic intervention of AUCC Bank to rupees. The Bank has not only financed but also
promote Horticulture and pisciculture in Angul facilitated to raise to the occasion for self-sufficient
and Dhenkanal District has produced many and dignity. Mr. Sahu is supplying all types of
successful entrepreneurs."APCA Farm" of fish seeds to the farmer of the State as well as
Nakchi, at Kishore Nagar Block of Angul District outside the State. He also started pisciculture in
is the biggest "Lichi" orchard in private sector of Derjang Medium Irrigation Project by taking 5
the State and has been financed by AUCC Bank. years lease. AUCC Bank has laid him to become
Smt. Sakuntala Sahu the most successful
the owner of the farm entrepreneurs in
has been emerged as pisciculture sector in
one of the successful the State.
women entrepreneurs.
Angul -
She is not only earning
Dhenkanal region has
approximately 7 lakh
rupees annually but also been emerged as one
living peacefully in the of the important growth
green environment. centres due to
Angul UCC Bank has economic intervention
financed around 66 of AUCC Bank with
lakhs rupees to nine 194 crores rupees in
farmers under the last financial year in
"National Horticulture Scheme". Agriculture, Horticulture and Pisciculture etc. The
successful Cooperative movement of AUCC
Mr. Brajabandhu Sahu, a small farmer of Bank has been recognized and it has been selected
village Turanga of Angul was often dreaming to as the best Central Co-operative Bank of the
compete with the industrial businessmen around State.
him. Today his dream became true. Now he is
the owner of the biggest hatchery centre of the AUCC Bank being selected as the best
State in private sector. Mr. Sahu is now the owner Central Cooperative Bank of Orissa by
of the biggest hatchery and pisciculture centre of NABARD has been awarded by Sj. P.
the State with the AUCC Bank finance of 35 lakh Chidambaram, Hon'ble Finance Minister, Govt.
64
of Vegetable and Fruit Producer's Marketing Co-

operatives for cost effective production and
market linkages.
The Bank's intervention in the social
sector by providing 3 crores 76 lakh rupees
financial assistance to around twenty thousands
women of around 18 hundred SHG groups and
empowering 40 thousands women by mobilizing
136 lakh rupees deposit is widely discussed among
the mass.
As parts of its social responsibility, the
of India on 13.9.2005, at New Delhi, by Sri staff of the AUCC Bank and its successful
Naveen Patnaik, Hon'ble Chief Minister, Orissa entrepreneurs has undertaken vario us
in State level "Krushak Samabesh" on 20.11.2005 development activities at famous tourist spots viz.
organised by Orissa State Co-operative Bank and Deulajhari and Kapilash.
by Hon'ble Finance Minister Sri Prafulla Chandra Mr. Suresh Kumar Vashishth, IAS
Ghadei on 19.11.2005 on the occasion of Collector and District Magistrate and MIC of the
celebration of 52nd All India Cooperative Week Bank has stressed upon continuous and
at the state level. sustainable efforts of the Bank to promote
Besides, our Guneibil SCS under successful entrepreneurs in Angul and Dhenkanal
Dhenkanal District is adjudged as the best Service District.
Cooperative Society in the State and is awarded
with shield by Smt. Surama Padhy, Hon'ble
Minister, Cooperation on 19.11.2005 at the state
level function. AUCC Bank has promoted 4 nos Choudhury B.K. Das is the A.G.M, O.S.C.B.
65
Hitherto Unknown Stone

Inscriptions of West Orissa
S.S. Panda
As evidenced from stone inscriptions, the in the Batuka Bhairava form and is found to be
Bhairava worship was prevelent in the upper stark naked, his linga and kosa seen to be
Mahanadi valley of Orissa atleast from the 1st hanging downwards, four-handed, holding a long
century A.D. The discovery of a two-lined trisula in his lower right hand, the bottom portion
inscription on the pedestal of a standing image of of it resting near his right foot. The eyes of this
furious looking Batuka Bhairava at Junagad in the image is round, having an uncanny look with side-
Kalahandi district by this tusks coming out from both
scholar in April, 1983 corners of his mouth. This
throws new light on the cult figure has very long ears, flat
of Bhairava. It is somewhat nose and a big garland of
astounding that Pandit Satya skulls apart from a small
Narayan Rajagur u has necklace hanging round his
deciphered this inscription neck. His jatas are forming
to be written in the Pali a mandala in the shape of a
Prakrit in around 1st flat mukuta. It is of the
century A.D. On the broken height of three feet and is
pedestal of another Bhairava carved on a square pedestal
image of around six feet in Patalesvara Temple Inscription where the two-lined
height, found in the Banka Budhikomna, Dist. Nuapada inscription in Pali Prakrit
Paik Pada of Junagad town, occurs.
the last letter of an inscription Ra is seen to be The learned epigraphist late Pandit Satya
engraved. Such Ra alphabet was used during Narayan Rajaguru has rendered the reading of
the period from the 4th to 8th century A.D. this inscription as "Om Divyadhara (1st line )
Another short stone inscription of the 8th century Jayapataraja Dhavasa (2nd line)" in Prakrit
A.D., found in the Dhavalesvara Siva temple at language. He thinks the 2nd line to be read as
Mohangiri, also in the Kalahandi district, has been "Jayapatarajadhruvasya" in Sanskrit language
deciphered as Vyuha Bhairava by Pandit S.N. and place it in around 1st century A.D.
1
Rajaguru. palaeograplically. Pandit Dr. Satya Narayan
The image of Bhairava found in the back Rajaguru's personal correspondence with this
side of the Panchayat Samiti office at Junagad is writer dated 27th July, 1986 from
66
2
Paralakhemundi. One sword, semi-precious stones, one
A seal matrix gold stylus, a red coloured stone seal bearing the
has been name Dhimatiswara engraved on it in the box-
unearthed from headed Brahmi characters of the 5th century
the Budhigad A.D. and one iron Yupa Stambha were
sit e, near discovered from the temple complex of the
Madanpur second tier during excavations. Dr. Sahu has
Amath Inscription, No.1, Kalahandi
village of considered the entire site to be places of worship
District
M.Rampur as well as places of residence and general
tahasil area of Kalahandi district. It is engraved congregation. He further thinks this to be a Saiva
on a diamond-shaped pendant made of red monastery with leanings to Saivism.
Jasper. It is a finely polished seal, bearing a floral The box-headed character of the Brahmi
motif in its proximal end. The legend in reverse is inscription found on the pedestal of the
written in the mixed scripts of the 2nd century Simhavahini Durga image has been deciphered
3
A.D. in the Kharoshti and Brahmi letters. by Dr. Sahu as Maheswari Bhavadaa and of
Learned epigraphist B.N. Mukherjee, the fifth centuryA.D. palaeographically. Dr. Sahu
deciphering this two-lined inscription puts forth has further ascribed the temple ruins of this place
his views that it is written in Prakrit as "Jana to the Nala rulers of Puskhari and the temple of
dhapeta", the Sanskrit version of which is " goddess Durga to king Bhavadatta Varman. He
Yajna Sthapeyita" (English Translation : Founder has given the view that the Sarabhapuriya kings
or Establisher of Sacrifices). Pradeep Mohanty of the Amararyakula were followers of the
and Baba Mishra, the discoverers of this seal Vaisnava faith. But the Nala kings of Puskhari
matrix think that it belonged to a person who was axcept the last ruler Skanda Varman were great
probably a patron of Brahmanic sacrifices and as patrons of Saivism. Another learned epigraphist
there is a perforation in the top-portion of this Pandit Satyanarayan Rajguru reads it as
matrix it was in all probability used as a pendant Maheswari Bhabeidam , means From This
in a string garland and was worn by the owner, Grows Maheswari and dates it to the 6th century
4
who used it whenever required. A.D.
A four-handed Simhavahini Durga in In June 1991, a stone slab bearing an
archer s pose (alidha posture) in the Sanctum inscription was unearthed during excavation of a
Sanctorium (garbhagriha) and one porch were mound in the same Maraguda valley. This
discovered during excavation at Maraguda valley inscription has been deciphered as "Guna Lopa
in Nuapada district. Dve" by t he
Further excavations in the second n o t e d
fortnight of July, 1983 brought to light four epigraphist late
residential rooms including a dormitory in the Dr. Sat ya
second tier and five residential rooms in the third Narayan
tier of the Trisul mound, both to the north of the R a ja g u r u ,
temple. These buildings have been taken by which means
excavation director Dr. N.K. Sahu as the "two Gunas are
residences of the Acharyas. to be off." In Amath Inscription, No.2, Kalahandi
District
the views of
67
6
Dr. Rajaguru, "a Gupta has dated it to the 5th century A.D. He
man who may further thinks that as this type of curved danda,
wo rship t he kundi-type kamandalu and beaded rosary are
g o d d e s s depicted in the Saiva sculptures of Vakataka
(Mahes vari) period found in the Vidarbha region, the seal
should abolish motifs might have been influenced by the
two gunas Vakataka art. This type of sprinkler pots of red
(qualities) out of polished ware have been found during excavation
three gunas undertaken at Sirpur and Malhar in the adjacent
(Satva, Raja and Chhattisgarh region. The rosary is made of ten
Tama). Tho se beads (nine normal and one Sumeru bead, which
who possess is slightly bigger in size and placed on the top right
Vaidyanath Inscription,
Sonepur District
Satva-guna corner). The kundi-type water pot and rosary
should give up the are shown as attributes in a number of icons of
other two gunas. Similarly those who has Raja- Siva. As Brahmana and Brahmani are epithets of
guna or Tama-guna, if he wishes power or Siva and his consort Durga (which was the Indian
strength for Marana, Uccatana etc., she (the adoption of the goddess Mana and which
goddess) should be worshipped by abolishing the subsequently merged in the image of Parvati),
other two gunas respectively. (Vide Mahesvari Gupta has therefore put forth his view that
Tantra). Rajaguru further thinks that it is a Sutra Brahmana was a Saivite and so is his seal. Gupta
of Tantric philosophy. Mantra Mahodadhi by has brought to the attention of scholars a very
5
Mahidhara may be reffered in this matter. interesting fact that, one of the gold coins (Aureus)
The Brahmanisation of the upper of the Roman emperor Julius Caesar ( 31 B.C-
Mahanadi valley started right in the early centuries 14 A.D.) found in Chanda (Chandrapur) district
of the Christian era, but with a major thrust to of the Vidarbha region, bears three exactly similar
Saivism and Saktism, as because this area was divices, and most probably being inspired by the
predominantly inhabited by the tribals. The design of the Roman coin, Brahmana might have
inscribed Bhairava image of Junagad dated to the devised his seal, although the time gap between
Ist century A.D. is a clear evidence of existence the Roman coin and this seal is more than 500
of such riligious beliefs. years (1st century B.C. to 5th century A.D.
A red-coloured polished stone seal This seal
bearing a legend in the box-headed Brahmi was discovered in
characters consisting of four letters in the lower the Maraguda valley
portion and above the inscription having the of Nuapada district
engraved motifs of three devices, i.e. a high- during surface
necked oblong pot with a sprout on the left exploration and
(kundi), a curved stick (danda) and a beaded presented to the
rosary ( aksamala or Rudraksamala). While S a mba lp u r
deciphering the inscription on the seal as ' University museum.
Brahmanasya', meaning "the seal belongs to Brahamana might be
Brahmana", learned scholar Chandra Shekhar an Acharya of the Belkhandi Inscription
68
archaeological site of Belkhandi in Kalahandi

district and at present kept in the Bhawanipatna
Museum. It has been deciphered as (1st line)
Pratyanta Purusa, (2nd line) Sri Vikara deva,
(3rd line) ha by the epigraphist of Orissa State
"Mahesvari Bhabeidam" Maraguda, Dist.- Nuapada
Museum Miss Bharati Pal. She is of the view that
Saiva monestery in which another Saivacharya palaeographically the scripts of this inscription can
named Dhimatisvara was functioning to propagete be dated to circa 8th century A.D.
Saivism in this region of anciant Daksina Kosala She has deciphered another short two-
in the 5th century A.D. lined fragmentary inscription from Belkhandi, now
An oval shaped stone seal found at in the Bhawanipatna Museum as (1st line)
Nehena village is in the private possession of Shri tavadaksana (2nd line) Sri Canda and dates it to
Jitamitra Singh Deo of Khariar. The seal bear the 9th century AD. It seems it to the 9th century
three emblems in the upper half portion, i.e a A.D. Belkhandi site was already famous for the
crouching bull facing to the proper right side and Saptamatrika temple and another temple
in front of it two symbols, one trident and and a dedicated to Uma Mahesvara, as evidenced from
danda. In the lower half portion a legend in the the archaeological finding.
box-headed Brahmi scripts of the 6th century In 1946-47, S.N. Rajaguru examined yet
A.D. has been inscribed, which reads another broken stone inscription, found that
"Saivaramesvarasya" (It belongs to Saiva Belkhandi by Kedar Nath Mahapatra during
Ramesvara). In all probabality the seal was used excavation and come to know from the reading
by a Saiva Acharya named Ramesvara. of the said inscription that the locality was called
A village named Aksarsila is situated on "Gouraveni - Tata Visaya". From this he
the left bank of river Brahmani at a distance of understands that the ancient name of the river Utei
8
around 24 miles (38 kms) from Deogarh and was Gouraveni.
around 15 miles (24 kms) from Bonaigarh on the Two door jambs of a temple have been
7
old Bamra - Bonai road. There is a huge shifted from Amath village to the Kalahandi
monolithic rocky elevation in a paddy field to the District Museum at Bhawani Patna. On both
south-west of the village, which comes under the pillars, there are three short inscriptions, two on
Barkot Panchayat Samiti area of Deogarh one of it and one on the other. Two short
district at present. The reputed epigraphist Dr. inscriptions, deeply executed on one of these
Snigdha Tripathy has deciphered this inscription Pillars have been deciphered by late Prof. D.C.
as "Sri Bicitra Bhusanaya" and has ascribed it to Sircar, the internationally reputed epigraphist,
the last part of the 7th century A.D. or early part
of the 8th century A.D. But at the present state of
our knowledge it cannot be said definitely as to
who Sri Bicitrabhusana was and why he inscribed
his name on this monolithic rock.
A stone slab having a three-lined short
inscription has been shifted from t he Sarsara Inscription, Sundargarh Dist.No.1
69
A Panchayatana temple complex was

brought to limelight by this scholar in June, 1984.
The main central temple is of triratha order and
surrounded by four subsidiary temples of the
Sarsara Inscription, Sundargarh Dist.No.2
triratha order. The small temple in the north-west
being rquested by this scholar through side of the central shrine is having a short
correspondence. He has read the five lettered inscription on its southern outer wall. This three-
fragmentary inscription as "Rdhya Kulamula" and lettered inscription has been deliphered as "3
was of the view that this "Rdhya" can be taken as Bhaga" by the eminent epigraphist Pandit
the remnant of an epithet of the personal name Satyanarayan Rajaguru and from palaeographical
that follows. Another short inscription which is in point of view these script have been attributed to
12
cursive writing has been deciphered as circa 9th century A.D. by Dr. S.N. Rajaguru.
"Mulacanda". He has assigncd both these The terminology " 3 Bhaga" might be indicating
inscriptions to the 8th-9th century A.D. on "three architectural divisions" or "tri -ratha" design
9
palaeographical ground. of this ancient temple, locally known as
13
A three-lined inscription is found inscribed Kosalesvara temple.
on a huge stone beam, at present lying on the The antarala (portico) roof of a stone
ground near the Siva temple at Deypur temple is found amidst temple ruins at Sarsara
(Kalampur) in Kalahandi district. This inscription near Banei in Sundargarh district. The proper left
has been deciphered as (1st line)...d edge of this roof slab is having an inscription in
Dharmmadhirasya (2nd line)... sa....bhumi (mi) the 10th-11th century proto-Nagari characters.
- gra......ca...(3rd line)sa (or na) (devayatana) Another inscription is found inscribed on the
parikrama" by the learned epigraphist Dr.(Smt.) pedestal of an image at the same site, which can
Snigdha Tripathy, who thinks that it is written in be also dated to t he same period
the nail-headed characters of the 8th-9th century palaeographically. Learned epigraphist Dr.
14
A.D. Snigdha Tripathy has deciphesed the inscription
Two short inscriptions are found on the antarala roof-edge as "Lahati (?) dara -
inscribed, on the beam of the pillars supporting Prakhara." The pedestal inscription has been
the roof of the Jagamohana of the Kosalesvara read by her as "Pradipa dadhatt (?) bha Mahe."
temple at Baidyanath in Sonepur district and the One five -lined inscription is found
other in the side of a carving of eight-petalled inscribed on the left side of the sanctum doorway
flower on a loose stone block. The first inscription of the Patalesvara temple at Budhikomna in
reads 'Deviye (ta)' and the second, "Siddham Nuapada district. This inscription was damaged
Ranaka Sri (Dha) ndhokasya" and by the sculptors as they were trying to remove
palaeographically can be placed in the second half lime and plaster from this part of the doorway
10
on the 9th or first half of the 10th century A.D. with the help of their chisels during restoration
Although it is very difficult to identify Ranaka work done by the State Archaeology around
(Dha)ndhoka whose name occurs in the short 1979. The damage done is irrepairable. Now only
inscription, it is apparent that he was a great some twenty characters exist. (1st Line) Rasri.....
devotee of the Lord and attained perfection or (2nd Line) Bala prasada.... (3rd
11
Siddha. Line).....Na.........Dha 2 Ga...........II-II (Stop
70
sign) (4th Line) Na........A.....Ratha (5th Mahanadi at Sonepur and the short inscription
Line)....... Kulena. This inscription has been on the monolithic rock in the river bed of
placed palaeographically in the 10th-11th century Mahanadi at Binka are yet to be deciphesed,
A.D. by Pandit Satya Narayan Rajaguru, who which may through new light on the history of this
has deciphered this inscription being requested region.
15
by this scholar. References :
A three-lined inscription in the proto- 1. The Journal of the Kalinga Historical Research
Oriya characters of the 16th century A.D. has Society, Vols. II & III, 1950, pp.246-247 ff.
been inscribed in the lower half of a rectangular 2. Orissa Review, Vol.XLV, No.5, December 1988, p.8.
memorial Hero Stone, which is at present kept in 3. Pradeep Mohanty and Baba Mishra, 'Early Historic
the Talbandh Para of Junagad town in Kalahandi Kalahandi', in 'Orissa : Revisited', edited by
Pratapaditya Pal, Marg publication, Mumbai, 2001,
district. It has been deciphered by learned
p.25.
epigraphist Dr. Snigdha Tripathy as (1st Line) Sri
4. Letter dated 7th April, 1988 of Shri S.N. Rajaguru
Durga (or Duva) dasa gupta (?) chara (2nd to this scholar from Bhubaneswar.
Line)....... Je(ye)... devarika samastasa - (3rd 5. Orissa Review, No.LX, Nos.2 & 3, September-
Line) marpichi (se) - mrta senapati (?). As this October 2005, p.106.
figure is in profile in the fighting posture carrying 6. Chandra Sekhar Gupta, "A Seal of Brahmana from
a sword and a shield it seems that the Orissa", in "Krsna Pratibha : Prof. K.C. Panigrahi
"Guptachara" (spy) of a foreign country was commemoration Volume, edited by H.C. Das,
killed, in whose memorial the Hero Stone was S.Tripathy, B.K. Rath, Sandeep Prakashan, Delhi,
1994, Vol.I, pp.47-53 ff.
erected subsequently. The characters of the
7. J.K.H.R.S., Vol.I, No.2, September, 1946, pp.165-171
inscription exhibit the development of Oriya scripts
ff.
in the 16th century A.D. and prove that Oriya
8. J.K.H.R.S., Vol.II, Nos.2 & 3, September-December,
scripts developed in this region of south-west 1947, pp.110.
Orissa, than under the occupation of the 9. Prof. D.C. Sircar's Personal Corrospondence dated
Nagavamsi kings of Kalahandi. 9th September, 1984 with this scholar.
From a village named Dumerbahal one 10. Letter No.19/85-580, dated 26th July, 1985 of the
Hero Stone having a proto-Oriya inscription on Director, Epigraphy, Archaeological Survey of
India, Mysore to this scholar.
the pedestal has been collected by the famous
11. Orissa Review, Vol.XLIII, No.12, December, 1987,
historian Mr. J.P. Singh Deo of Khariar and at p.18.
present kept in the Khariar Museum. Being 12. Letter dated 13th June, 1986 of Shri S.N. Rajaguru
requested by this writer, the learned epigraphist to this writor from Parlakhemundi.
16
Dr.Satya Narayan Rajaguru has deciphered it 13. Orissa Review, Vol.XLIII, No.3, October, 1986, p.49.
as Da (Du) ra Rogare (Probably the death of 14. The Orissa Historical Research Journal, Vol.XLVI,
this hero occured due to some incurable desease) No.1, 2005, p.60.
and assign it palaeographically to the 16th century 15. OHRJ, Vol.XXXV, Nos.3 & 4, 1989, p.121.
A.D. 16. Orissa Review, Vol.XLVI, Nos.7 & 8, February-
Many long stone inscriptions of Western March, 1990, p.24.
Orissa like the one on the monolithic rock
Sasanka Sekhar Panda lives at VR-23, Unit-6,
(Lankesvari Pitha) in the rock bed of river Bhubaneswar.
71
The Literary Heritage of Sonepur
Dr. Pabitra Mohan Nayak
Sonepur lying nestled in a cosy bower surrounded Jalandharippa, Raja of Lanka (Sonepur), who
by long lines of sky-blue, forest crowned cliffs was one of the exponents of the Natha cult was
forming pre-eminently the base of a triangular plot, the propounder of Sahajayana Buddhism whose
washed by the perennial flow of the Mahanadi Advayasiddhi is the medieval form of Acharya
and river Tel is a veritable poet s paradise. In the Rajanish s modern method of Yogic practices
words of Sir Richard Temple: from sex to salvation. The mystic poetry of the
A real variety to the scene was afforded Natha cult which flourished from 8th to 11th
whenever caught the golden colours of the eastern century largely influenced the Panchasakha
sky, the rapids made a merry noise as they hurried literature of Jagannath, Balarama, Yasowanta,
along. The effect of the rocks was doubled by Achuyta and Ananta. The Natha literature of
the reflections of teak trees, laden with their yellow Sonepur seems to have set the tone and temper
blossoms, hung over the margin of the stream. of the literature the successive ages pursued.
We were one day on horse-back, another day in Sasisena Kavya by Pratap Rai of the 17th
boats, it was from the midstream that the best Century is a milestone in Oriya literature. At a
views presented themselves. When the river was time when Oriya poetry was characterized by
winding through mountain gorges, the hill-sides ornamental richness and figurative intricacies, here
widely parted, would allow the water to broaden was a kavya marked by sweet simplicity and fluid
itself into a small lake, the voyager issuing from it beauty. And the author of this singular kavya was
by the river passage, would turn a corner and a son of this soil. There are enough internal
find himself in a fresh lake, whence he might enter evidences to show that the author belonged to
another and yet another - each lake differing from Sonepur garjat. The kavya deals with the love,
its neighbour. marriage and elopement of Ahimanikya, minister s
These lovely sights and sounds created son and Sasisena, daughter of the Raja of
the appropriate artistic atmosphere where poets, Amaravati near the present Chandikhol of
novelists, dramatists, painters, musicians, etc. of Cuttack. It was here at Kamantapur (Sonepur)
no mean merit flourished. Here at Sonepur. that the real drama of their love-life is enacted
against the tantric background of this land of Sat
The growth of literature at Sonepur can Bahen. It was here that Ahimanikya, trapped by
be traced to Charyapada, to Matsyendranath and Jnanadei Maluni, one of the seven tantric sisters,
Daripada of the Natha cult. They wrote esoteric was transformed into a sheep by day and a youth
poetry in language known as Sandhya bhasa. The by night. The kavya end with the transformation
local idioms they used are still in currency in this of the sheep into Ahimanikya under royal orders
area. Lakshmikara, daughter-in-law of and the reunion of the love-lorn lovers. Jnanadei
72
expresses her disdainful horror in her response be saved by the grace of god. This is what we
to the king s command to bring the sheep. What find from canto to canto. The most remarkable
an idea , exclaims the cunning Jnanadei, a sheep aspect of this voluminous kavya is the
in the house of a gardener, a horse in house of a transcendental vision of God seen by a hunter
potter and a monkey in the house of a weaver ; through a strange bird in canto XVII. .. No hands
The Chauhans who ruled Sonepur for /No feet.. No beak/No colour, No shape/No
about three hundred years kept up the tradition nose, no ears... Its body filled the sky, the earth
of the Somagupta kings whose copperplate and the underworld. And he looked into his body
charters carry lines of highly ornate poetry. In the and saw the bird. This immanent us of the poet s
Maranjmura copper plates of Yayati, Sonepur- mystic English contemporary Wordsworth in
on-Mahanadi has been depicted as a metropolitan Tintern Abbey -
city washed by the moon-lit, foam-crested, A sense sublime
restless waves of the confluence sanctified by its Of something far more
holy water, decorated with rest-houses, deeply interfused
resounding with the beaming, blooming lotus-faces Whose dwelling is the light
of amorous women with anticing side-long of setting suns
glances. And the round ocean and the living air
During the reign of Niladhar Sing Deo And the blue sky and in the
(1841-91) there lived at Sonepur three great mind of man
devotional poets namely, Chandramani Das, We see this cosmic vision again in
Bhima Bhoi and Bhubaneswar Panigrahi. Srikrishna Sudhamruta where the asta patavamsis
Chandramani Das was a siddha yogi seated on the Garuda witness Krishna s Gopa
whose samadhi pitha is visited by thousands of Lila far down in Maya Dwaraka and look back
devotees all the year round. His best known work and yet find him behind them.
is Sudhasara Gita (1940) consisting, like the Chandramani Das wrote Tandava
famous Bhagavat Gita, of 18 Cantos. It is based Nruttya , Bhsramana Gita Halia Gita ,
on the Pinda-Brahmanda tattwa of the Prabhati , Balagopala Chautisa , Gupta
Panchasakha school of poetry. But, while this Gopibhasa , etc. some of which are yet to see
intricate tattwa is made complicated by the the light of day. He was a Vaishnavite poet who
Panchasakhas it is conveyed in simple, intelligible loved bhajans and kirtans. And yet the god he
language by Chandramani Das. Narada Gita worshipped was Rama and Krishna and Machha
written in the form of a dialogue between Uddhava and Kachha and Narasimha - all rolled into one.
and Narada is Yogasastra turned Kavyasastra. And that one even is disembodied Brahman.
These Yogas are quite different from those Bhima Bhoi began where Chandramani
delineated in the Gita and yet this unpublished had left. His god was Mahima, the Sunya Brahma
kavya closes with the beatific vision of anantasayi or the Void. Tribals are animists. They woship
Vishnu which reminds us of the Viswarupa in the rocks and stones and trees . And yet here was
Gita. an unschooled tribal rebel who declared an
Bhavat araka which is anot her unremitting, uncompromising battle against
unpublished but unparalleled work by this saint idolatry, against brahminical orthodoxy and royal
poet seems to have been influenced by Ram Das authority. Setting up his ashram at Khaliapali near
Dadhyata Bhakti. It comprises thirty cantos and Sonepur with the patronage of Raja Niladhar Sing
is an episode on sin and salvation. From men to Deo, Bhim Bhoi became the Mahima Swamy of
animals, from animals to reptiles-each one can West Orissa whose monotheistic bhajans set to
73
the tune of the castanet ring in the raptured ears Padmavandha, Rathavandha, Gomutrachhanda,
of his million devotees in West Bengal, Andhra, etc. scattered throughout with uncontrolled
Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Orissa. Bhima Bhoi prodigality. the last four cantos are sometimes
was a prolific poet who, at once, dictated four detached from the kavya and sung as morning
bhajans to four scribes. Of his writings mention hymns which, in their lucidity of expression, depth
may be made of Srutinisedha Gita, Adi Anta Gita, of feeling and melodic beauty, have hardly any
Astaka Bihari Gita, Brahma Nirupana Gita, parallel in Oriya poetry. Besides Prematarangini
Bhajanamala, Chautisa Madhuchakra, Manu written in 30 cantos, kavyas like Bhagavata
Sabha Mandala, Brahma Chalaka, Mahatmya , Astapadi and a few lyrics and
Stutichintamani and Mahima Vinod , a chautisas based on the Krishna cult by
ponderous poetic itinerary of Mahima Swamy yet Bhubaneswar Panigrahi are a precious treasure
to be published. Besides, he has dictated of Oriya poetry. In one of these songs, Krishna,
numerous bhajans and chautisas which are still on hearing Radhas grief-stricken separation,
lying scattered here and there. In Brahama bursts into one of the most ornamental utterances.
Nirupana Gita Bhima Bhoi defines Brahman as Nira niraja nayanaru nivara
Purusa and Prakruti, light and darkness, Varaja vasa khedajalu uddhara
knowledge and ignorance, master and slave, sea Dharadharastana vinayavistara
and sky, good and evil, death and immortality. Tara kesa mukha poti re.
But the magnum opus of Bhima Bhoi is his Stuti
Chintamani which has no parallel in Oriya poetry. Raja Niladhar was himself a poet, a
it elevates pure personal suffering to the height of painter, a composer, and a musician. The lyrics
a kavya like Wordsworth s Prelude . Here in he wrote were simple, sweet and passionate and
Orissa a wail of agony was, for the first time, were largely influenced by the prevalent taste of
considered subject matter for poetical composition Vaishnavite poetry.
in Bhima Bhoi s hands. We, therefore, sometimes Rajarsi Prataprudra Sing Deo (1891-
strongly feel this unlettered genius of an 1902), Niladhar s son and successor, was well-
unimportant Garjat of those days should have versed in Sanskrit literature and culture. He had
been, in all earnest, given the honour of composed several hymns in Sanskrit included in
inaugurating the modern age in Oriya poetry. Stotratarangini (1893) comprising astakas,
There was another neglected talent of dasakas, dwadasakas on pattamaheswari, here
Sonepur - Bhubaneswar Panigrahi- whose is nityajnanananda sudhamvonidhirupa, an ocean
Prema Tarangini kavya can rival the best of of eternal wisdom and bliss. Somalesvari is
Upendra Bhanja, Kavi Samrat of Oriya poetry. Padmasina, trinayanayuta proditaditya kantih, a
Born to an humble brahmin family of Gaurgaon, three-eyed goddess seated on a lotus and shining
Bhubanear Panigrahi was a court-poet of Niladhar like the sun. Goddess Sureswari dazzles with white
Sing Deo and a pundit of much learning. tulips trembling on the creeper of her fine frame,
Prematarangini which means a river of love sphurat malli mala lalitatanuvallari parisara, while
deals with the separation and union of Krishna the Mahanadi rushes on to lie on the large lap of
and the Gopis in a language charged with passion the eastern sea, prachipayodhi vipulankaviharasila.
and power. This is highly ornate, pictorial poetry, Prataprudra s poet, Pt. Chintamani Nanda s
a long love-song composed to a wide variety of Jagadisa Mahima Stavah is another solid
metres, decorated with figures of speech of contribution to the world of Sanskrit hymns.
alankaras like Utpreksha, Punarukti, Yamaka, If Prataprudra was a Sanskrit scholar, it
Rupaka, Simhavalokana, Vyagragati, etc. and is all but natural that the Oriya kavyas namely
Chitravandhas like Samputavandha, Chaturdasapadi (1918) attributed to him should
74
carry on them the distinct stamp of his Sanskrit resembles Prataprudra s Chaturdasapadi in
scholarship. If Upendra Bhanja s Vaidehisha co ntent and form, Anangarangini and
Vilasa and Dinakrushna Das Rasa Kallola are Chandraprabha Kavya which drew the admiring
written with the first letter of each line beginning attention of poet Radhanath Ray show the poet s
with and respectively, Chandravati rare combination of tradition and modernity.
parinaya is composed in chakaradyaniyama (each Anangarangini deals with the imaginary story of
line beginning with the alphabet- Cha ) which is love between Naravahana, Raja of Kausambi and
rarer still in Oriya vocabulary. Based on an Chandraprabha. Anangarangini deals with the
episode from the Mahabharata this kavya deals imaginary story of love between
with the elopement and marriage of Chandravati, Rasananda,Yuvaraj of Kanchanapura and
Duyodhana s daughter, with Shamva, Srikrishna s Anangarangini, princes of Kamanagara, while
son. Like Prematarangini , this is a pictorial, Chandraprabha Kavya delineates the live and
musical kavya composed to as many as twentytwo marriage, separation and union between
metres like Kalasa, Ramakeri, Rasakoila, Naravahana, Raja of Kausambi and
Vasant a, Chakrakeli, Mangalagujjari, Chandraprabha, daughter of the fairy king,
Shankarabharana, etc. The splendour of Chitraketu. The visible appro ach of
description, the opulence of alankaras, and the Anangarangini s youth depicted by the florist
mellifluity of its music make it one of the milestones Kalavati in Ch.II and the description of the spring-
in the Riti Yuga Oriya poetry. Prataprudra s garden in Ch.IV of Anangararangini, the elaborate
unpublished Chaupadi Ratna contains powerful depiction of the spring-forest, the sunset and
lyrics on the Radha-Krishna love theme. The sunrise in Chandraprabha Kavya justify them as
colophon verses of the originals of Chandravati jewels of Oriya poetry. While there is the
Parinaya and Chaturdasapadi preserved at
unmistakable shadow of the ornamental poetry
Gourgan in manuscript form bear the name of
of the Riti Yuga on Anangarangini, Chandraprabha
Bhubaneswar Panigrahi. Thus these kavyas
attributed to Prataprudra were definitely written Kavya is a splendid specimen of simplicity in
by Bhubaneswar which BM Sing Deo later modern potery. Its theme is ancient but its
published in the name of his father, Prataprudra. treatment brings it close to the poetry of
Bhubaneswar Panigrahi s son, Dwija Nilambar, Radhanath and Nandakishore. In St.267-9,
too, has left behind him a few significant lyrics Naravahana nostalgically reminisces :
composed in medieval Vaisnavite mode. This rich The same scented breeze from the south
tradition of poetry is fostered and sustained by The same warm song of the cuckoo,
the natural loveliness of Sonepur, its rivers and The same flowers, the same bees
streams, its hills and forests, its fields and groves White with pollen grains,
and, above all, by the Mahanadi flowing down the same sweet air,
loud on the stones and low on the sand, singing And yet since her departure
with Tennyson s brook, Men may come and men Something has happened to my heart.
may go/ But I go on forever.
Maharani Lady Parvati Devi and Yuvaraj
The reign of Birmitrodaya Sing Deo Somabhusan have respectively left behind them
witnessed the flowering of all branches of literture: two important kavyas namely, Syamantaka Mani
poetry, novel, drama, biography, travelogue, (1928) and Gajendra Mokshana (1907). While
translations, etc. Syamantaka Mani deals with the loss and
Birmitrodaya is said to have written restoration of the jewel Syamantaka, Gajendra
Chandraprabha Kavya (1902), Astapadi (1926), Mokshana depicts the story of the salvation of an
and Anangarangini(1935). Whille Astapadi elephant crocodile from a Gajendra Mokshana
75
claim a special place in Oriya poetry for its moving Bichhandacharan were sweating and struggling to
simplicity spontaneity and spirituality. keep the banner of the Oriya language flying, here
was a thin, little voice in a remote corner of Orissa
Pt.Aditya Prasad Guru was primarily a
lifting its lyric of patriotic protest.
Sanskrit scholar who attempted three kavyas in
Oriya. Kutiravasini (1931), Kokila Sandesa and Sonepur had a rich tradition of songs and
Tarapurgarh (MS). While Kokila Sandesa is music. Niladhar Sing used to compose songs and
written in the tradition of Duta Kavyas like sing them to the accompaniment of musical
Kalidasa s Meghaduttam and Dhoyi Kaaviraja s instruments which he himself played. Birmitrodaya
Pavanadutam, Kutiravasini, dedicated to sing Deo wrote half a dozen books containing
hundreds of songs which continued the tradition
Maharani Parvati Devi, is based on Canto VII of of kavisurya Baladeva Rath and Gopalakrushna
Devi Bhagavatam. It tells the story of Sukanya, in Oriya Poetry. These songs contained in Sangita
daughter of Raja Saryati, and her god-conquering Ratnahara (1925), Sangita Vallari (1931),
chastity. Krushna Premodaya Champukavyam O Sangita
Mayaraduta by Lakanath Misra Sudhasagara (1933), Sangita Mitrodaya (1934)
resembles Guru s Kokila Sandesa. Both are and Sangita Kusumanjali are largely based on the
love between Radha and Krishna, and composed
Khanda Kavyas written on the same theme and to a wide variety of metres like puravi , todi
in the same Kalyana Ahari metre. But Misra s paraja , kedara gauri , bhatiari , kamodi ,
Haripriya (1922) can be classed with modern saari , malhara , panchama varadi ,
poetry. It tells the story of Haripriya s anandabhairavi , sankarabharana , etc. They are
disappearance and discovery against the scenic, set even in Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, tunes. These
sylvan setting of Sonepur.The treatment of nature songs, characterized by soft sentiments and lyrical
in this kavya carries it close to the best of intensity, combine in them the lucid simplicity of
Gangadhar Meher s nature poetry. Elizabethan love-lyrics with the intellectual titillation
of metaphysical secular songs. Birmitrodaya s
Harihar Panigrahi is a minor poet whose unpublished lyrics and chautisas and Malasri
Agamani, Nirajana, Niti Saurabha, Asrudhara, alongwith Swarnapura Bedha Parikrama (1899)
Archana and Santwana Puspamalya claim him a and Lady Parvati Devi s Humva Gita (1929) come
place among Oriya poets. While the last three under this category of songs. Birmitrodaya
are elegiac effusions on the death of Birmitrodaya compiled and published two collections of
Sing Deo, the first three relate the poet to nature Sanskrit hymns, namely, Stotratarangini (1893)
and human nature. Though of shorter stature than and Suvarnamerusatakam (1927) to which
his celebrated father Gopinath Panigrahi, Harihara Niladhar, Prataprudra and Birmitrodaya have
made significant contributions.
will be remembered for his pan-Orissan
sentiments expressed in Nirajana. In the midst of This tradition of poetry has come down
drowsy autumnal fertility and dreamy to Kaibalya Charan Nayak whose Nala Charita
voluptuousness, in the midst of what Keats would written in Riti Yuga style and Sakha Prasakha ,
have called, mellow fruitfulness , the poet finds a romantic effusion are yet to be traced.
Marudhara (1961) and Sandhyatara (1969)
Orissa condemned to starvation and slavery.
contain around fifty devotional lyrics which show
Where is the trade across the seven seas ? the the poet s disenchantment and disillusionment with
poet asks ruefully. At a time when the Oriya the world and his theocentric mindset. One of his
language was under attack when poets like longest poems in Sandhyatara is Chandli Chule
Gangadhar, Radhanath, Bichitr anand, which takes the reader on a delightful trip round
76
the religious and historical places of Sonepur. Misra s famous Kosalanandakavyam (1929).
Kaibalya Charan s MS Mahapathara Yatri Swarnapurarajavansanucharitam which the
contains a cluster of divine poems expressive of poet rightly calls the Second Kosalananda . It is
the poet s world-weariness and stoical surrender a poetic, historical record of the Chauhan Rajas
to divine dispensation. The last poem of Sonepur beginning with Madangopal and
Mahapathara Yatri which paints the pathetic ending with Birmitrodaya.
picture of a dying man casting longing lingering
looks behind closes with the emboldening sense Damodar Misra Sastri s Swarnapura
of self-realization with which he puts out to sea Chauhana Kirttidarpana is a historical kavya in
in the hour of sunset and evening star. Oriya serialized in Sambalpur Hiteisini. It traces
the history of the Sonepur Chauhans in simple,
Satyanarayan Bohidar was a poet with a lyrical poetry. Unfortunately this rare works has
difference. Author of Kosali Bhasakosh , his not been published in the form of a book.
works namely Tik Chahnra (1975). Ghavghavo,
Ghuvkudu etc. are written in Kosali or Sambalpuri Pt Aditya Prasad Guru s Tarapurgarh
language. The ease and facility with which Bohidar in Oriya, Syenagirih and Purascharana vamna
weaves the local idioms into the tapestry of his Champuh in Sanskrit, too, are historical kavyas
poetry is indeed amazing. which trace the history and legends surrounding
Sonepur.
Of the other poetical works of Sonepur,
mention may be made of the monumental Travel Literature
Buddha Purana in several volumes by Nakula At a time when there was hardly any
Nayak, Papakshaya Mahatmya by travelogue in Oriya literature, Sonepur created a
Dharmananda Meher, Rama Lila by Gandhar host of travel literature. Some of them were
Vaisya, Anutapa Tarangini by Pt.A.PGuru, written in the form of dialogic kavyas which lend
Purana Kathasara by Par vati Devi, credence and objectivity to history. Swarnapura
Ratnasimhasana Prasasti, by Damodar Sastri, Gunadarsha (1921) by Damodar Sastri is the
Ratnasimhasanotsava by Gopinath Panigrahi and historical geography of Sonepur in the form of a
Kalika Purana by B.M. Sing Deo. Champu Kavya gadyam hudyam
Historical Literature ashesasavdanihitam padyam . Lokananda and
Bijoy Chandra Mazumdar who was a Sadananda, fictitious merchants from Prayag,
poet and a historian wrote Sonpur in the begin their tour of Sonepur State from the left
Sambalpur Tract (1911) and Orissa in the bank of the Mahanadi, cross over the Panchara
Making (1925). Sri Ramchandra Mullick wrote Pragana and visit the places of interest on the right
Samkhipta Kosala Itihas (1931) and Odisa bank till they enter the town. Maharudrayaina
Itihas which are pure history. Sonepur Itihas Kavyam (1920) like Biswanath Rath s
by Pt.Aditya Prasad Guru and Sonepur Panigrahanapadapapah (1919) and Jagannath
Chauhana Vansa Itihas by Biswanath Rath, too, Mishra s Utasavatarangini Champuh (1910), is
are prosaic attempts at pure history. But the works another historical kavya by Damodar Misra who
by Pt.Gopinath Panigrahi Vidyaratna like Upahara deacribes the journey of Maharaja Birmitrodaya
Puspanjali (1910). Kumara Janmotsava (1927), through the scenic Sonepur. His visit to Sambalpur
Ekadasi Udyapana (1928) constitute the poetical and Benaras. His trip round the temples of
history of the Chauhan rulers of Sonepur. They Benaras, the performance of the Maharudra
set out to celebrate an occasion but end up as Yajna and his return journey are described with
history. Gopinath Panigrahi s master-piece is a the fidility and sincerity of a distinguished count -
historical Sanskrit epic of the order of Gangadhar who draws in his first hand experience.
77
But on top of all is Gopinath Panigrahi s Rani is bound to be uneventful. But, Dasgupta
Brata Charita (1915) which is a remarkable discovers in Amulyamani more than a Rani. She
travelogue in prose at a time when Oriya literature is an ideal mother, a devoted wife and a fine
was quite poor in prose. The occasion in the specimen of Indian womanhood. The book deals
thread ceremony of Somabhusan Sing Deo, with Amylyamani s early years in the Kalahandi
Birmitrodaya s son, but it sends the writer to palace, her married life, her children and
different places of Orissa and beyond, which come grandchildren, her role as a wife and a mother
out aggressively alive in Panigrahi s journalese. and her last days.
While Part-I takes us round Puri, Sareikela, It is said that Pt.Gopinath Panigrahi had
Boudh, Athgarh, Dhenkanal, Kasipur, Kuchinda, attempted a book of biographies and called it
Calcutta etc, we are set on a guided tour round Satcharitra Samadara which is lost to posterity.
the temple town of Sonepur in Part-II. What
Jagannath Misra Tarkatirtha, does in Dramatic Literature
Utsavatarangini Champuh, Gopinath Panigrahi Sonepur had a rich tradition of dance and
Vidyaratna does in Brata Charita. But, what is music and drama. Imagine a Yuvaraj freely mixing
remarkable and delightful about Panigrahi is his with the public and uninhibitedly acting his part
sinewy prose and graphic visual descriptions with them on the stage. And this was possible at
which are the hall-marks of travel literature. Sonepur in the second decade of the 20th century.
It is said that B.M.Sing Deo had written The Yuvaraj was Somabhusan Sing Deo. His
a book Bharata Bhramana, which confined an Sridama Daridrya Bhanjana (1920) is the only
interesting account of his travels across the play available on Sridama s grinding poverty, his
country, now unfortunately lost. unflinching devotion to Lord Krishna, Lord
Krishna s unshakable friendship with Sridama- all
Biographical Literature these are depicted in the drama. Bhagia Panda is
Here in this count ry , wrote a newly created character in this mythological play,
B.C.Mazumdar, we cremate the body, we do which lends dramatic relief, through frolicking
not raise a monument . Yet he raised one in humour, to this otherwise serious play. The
Chohan Rulers of Sonpur (1925) brief life- dialogues are written in Hindi, Hindi mixed with
sketches of Niladhar, Prataprudra and Oriya, Oriya mixed with Sambalpuri. In the
Birmitrodaya in pure panegyrics. B.C.Mazumdar Foreword, B.M.Sing Deo refers to one-actor
was closely associated with the Sonepur Durbar. titled Mayasavari by Somabhusan which is not
He had seen the Rajas within close range. Had available.
he wished, he would have built soild biographics Gopinath Panigrahi is said to have
on the rulers, but he did not choose to do so. attempted some poetic plays, namely Subhadra
May be because, truth is dangerous and to sing Parinaya , Sachala Harana and Rukmini
the praise is less problematic and more profitable Harana which have walked into oblivion.
than to launch a perilous voyage on the discovery
of the whole man . Fictional Litérature
But unlike Chohan Rulers of Sonpur, Life It has already been said that Birmitrodaya
of Rani Amulyamani Devi (1915) contains a full- had a poetic talent, but his works on prose fiction
fledged biography, even though here, too, we do like Bhagna Kankana (1920) and Nilakuntala
not see anything shocking or revolting in the Rani. (1927) are milestones in Oriya fiction. At a time
The Rani was, of course, on her own the true when Oriya literature had only a handful of novels
representative of Indian womanhood - an to show, it was here at Sonepur that these novels
ardhangini to Rajarsi Prataprudra. The life of a were written to enrich the literature of the State.
78
Bhagna Kankana is a historical novel him translate into Oriya great Sanskrit classics like
based on the intrigue between Ajayagarh had Ratnavali (1894), Abhijnana Sakuntala Nataka
Bishnugarh Raj families. The distinction of this (1898, Vikramorvasi (1910), Rutusamhara
novel lies in the Jaina background against which (1915), Naisadhiya, Charita (1921), Sisupala
the quiet words of wisdom uttered by a little Vadha (1928), Dasa Kumara Charita (1928),
ignominious girl Johan in the gathering gloom of Kalika Purana (1929), and Uttara Rama Charita
the evening. Sorrow breeds sorrow. The Kavya (1930) Sing Deo acknowledges the help
compassion of Lord Mahabir removes sorrow of Bhubaneswar Badpanda, Fakir Misra,
and leads the soul through endless joy towards Madhusudan Rao, Nilakantha Das, etc. without
Nirvana. What is sorrow, prince ? which the major works of Kalidas, Sriharsa,
Bhavabhuti,Dandi, Magha,Markandeya would
While Bhagna Kankana is a historical have remained Greek to the ordinary Oriya
novel, Nilakuntala is a sociological fiction, which readers.
reflects the dwindling values of the rural society
of those days. The centers of activity are Binodpur Under BM Sing Deo s patronage BC
and Bishnupur and the merit of the novel lies in Mazumdar translated Gita Gobindam into Bengali.
the seamless integration of the main plot with the Lady Parvati Devi, it is said, had translated
under plot. Nilakuntala projects the picture of the Bhaktikavyam and Pt.Gopinath Panigrahi,
contemporary society: the misguided youth, the Malatimadhavam and Mruchhakatikam, but these
village touts, the simple, unsuspecting, invaluable translation have become extinct with
unsophisticated Savara society, the gossips in the the passage of time.
river ghat, the evils of poverty and the benefits of It may be mentioned here that great
education - all these are realistically portrayed in works like Gangadhar Misra s
the novel. The justice dispensed is poetic. The Kosalanandakavyam which is one of the three
denouncement is harden, it is too sudden to be historical Sanskrit Mahakavyas of the country,
credible. And yet this novel will live for the life it Gopinath Tunga s Virasarvasvam which is the
mirrors. quintessence of twentyseven shastras of India,
Translation Niladri Mahodayah which is the only complete
and comprehensive compendium on the Puja
The appetite of Birmitrodaya for Sanskrit padhhati of Lord Jagannath, Pt.Harihara Rath s
classics was whetted by the pundits who Birmitrodaya Mahabharata in three volumes, etc.
surrounded him. They were Pt. Krupasindhu would not have seen the light of day without the
Mishra,. Jyotisalankara. Pt. Ramachandra Padhi, royal patronage of Sonepur. The Sonepur Chair
Siddhanta Tilaka, Pt.Gobinda Rath, of English at Revenshaw College and the Post-
Jyotischandra, Pt Gopinath Panigrahi, Vidyaratna, graduate Department of Calcutta University
Pt.Kasinath Mishra, Kavyavinod, Pt. Damodar founded by Sonepur Durbar have immensely
Misra, Sast ri, Pt.Aditya Prasad Guru, contributed to the cause of language and literature
Kavyatirtha, Pt . Chintamani Nanda, down the years.
Vidyabhusana, Pt.Devaraj Misra,
Sahityopadhyana, Pt. Brusabha Misra,
Vidyalankara etc. Maharaja BM Sing Deo might
have also received inspiration from Prataprudra
and Amulyamani, his parents who were well-read Retd. Registrar, Berhampur University, Plot - 22,
and well-versed in Sanskrit literature. This made Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar.
79
ORISSA :
NEW FRONTIERS OF DEVELOPMENT
The glorious re-emergence of present Government investors, application of information technology in

in Orissa evoked new spirit and enthusiasm among governance, creation of multiple livelihood
the people. Backed by the overwhelming support of opportunities for farmers, empowerment of women,
the people, the Government led by Sri Naveen devolution of powers to Panchayati Raj institutions,
Patnaik pursued hard to improve the socio-economic provision of quality health services, stress on
condition in the face of many challenges. The primary education, stimulation of self employment
Government from the very beginning adopted the opportunities through employment mission and
attitude of retrospection of development of Schedule
policies and programm es Tribes and Schedule Castes
undertaken during the first and vulnerable sections of the
phase of its tenure and devised society. All these exercises
appropriate strategies to were primarily targeted to
improve the quality of lives. tri gger the process of
dev elopment in its right
In accelerating the
perspectives. In revering the
pace of dev elopment, the
sentiment and perception of
Government of Orissa clearly
the people, the Government put
outlined its prime objective of
in place pragmatic policies like
human dev elopment. It
Resettlement and
concentrated on a meaningful
and effective development Rehabilitation for affected
framework and also identified families in the process of
the growth engines directing industrialization and other
thereby all its policies and developmental efforts. Many of
programmes to be anchored in these initiatives have been
a social context. It sincerely regarded as exemplars for
tried to reflect the development other parts of the country.
priorities of the target publi c where all its Indices of development have never been
interventions are applied. The Government led by assessed in terms of quantitative achievements.
Sri Patnaik consistently endeavoured to encourage
Paradigm of governance has already experienced
effective and efficient use of available resources for
a shift for which many emerging disciplines have
furthering the well-being of the people of Orissa.
become the way of life. The concepts of good
The major initiatives launched to address governance, transparency and accountability have
issues of emergent nature basically hinges on become abiding factors with the implementation of
principles of better financial discipline, optimum use path-breaking Right to Information Act. This far
of resources, creation of conducive climate for reaching law provides for independent information
80
commissions, proactive disclosures and reporting developed with a treatable area of 13

mechanisms having the potential to impact the hectares.
process of governance in a profound and positive
Water Resources : Creating Maximum
manner by empowering the citizen. During all these Irrigation Potential
courses, the Government under the dynamic and
vibrant leadership of Sri Naveen Patnaik have ¤ During 2005-06, six irrigation projects
relentlessly tried to transform the scenario of the identified for completion with a targeted
State into new frontiers of development. irrigation potential
of 12685 hectares,
Agriculture : Focus on Farm Mechanisation of which f our
projects already
¤ Priority accorded to completed.
Agriculture
extension through ¤ During 2005-06,
application of high- Orissa Lift
end Crop Production I r r i g a t i o n
Te c h n o l o g i e s , Corporation (OLIC) completed 500 new LI
Points under Biju Krushak Vikas Yojana and
adoption of
created an additional irrigation potential of
Integrated Nutrient
10,000 hectares.
Management and
Pest Management ¤ About 13,397 Pani Panchayats formed in the
practices. State by January 2006 covering an area of
10.40 lakh hectares. Out of these, 11,583
¤ Farmers' training
Pani Panchayats have taken over operation
programmes,
and maintenance of irrigation system covering
farmers' field school and demonstration
an area of 7.81 lakh hectares.
conducted f or macro-management of
agriculture, ISOPOM, ICDP (cotton) for ¤ Master Plan for irrigation being formulated to
bringing adv anced crop production bring minimum 35% of the cultivable area in
technology and packages of practices to the each block under irrigation within a time
farmers' doorsteps. frame of five years.
¤ 12.5 lakh grafts of various fruits, 10 lakh grafts Steel & Mines : Harnessing Natural Resources
of cashew and 2.5 lakh vegetable minikits ¤ Orissa in recent years has become a hotspot
supplied to farmers. for steel and Aluminium firms of national and
¤ To promote onion crops in the state, 300 international repute.
quintals of quality onion seeds distributed to ¤ 43 MOUs signed with an investment of
cover 7500 acres of land. Rs.1,37,000 crore for setting up steel plants
¤ Under National Horticulture Mission, 2625 in the state.
demonstrations on rose, gladioli and marigold ¤ POSCO, a South Korean steel giant, entered
held to encourage floriculture. A target of into an MOU with Govt. of Orissa to set up a
60,000 demonstrations set for the next year. steel plant having a production capacity of
¤ To ensure minimum support price to farmers 12 MTPA with an investment of about US $
a target of 20 lakh MTs of rice set to be 12 billion.
procured through Orissa State Civil Supplies ¤ The flagship Aditya Birla Group plans to
Corporation Ltd., PACs, MARKFED & setup a 1 MTPA Alumina refinery with
NAFED and millers under levy route. smelter.
¤ In developing micro-watersheds in drought ¤ Orissa Mining Corporation set itself a
prone areas, 2413 micro-watershed being production target of 51.20 lakh tonnes of
81
minerals in 2005-06. This represents 33% development and strengthening post-

increase over the previous year. graduate and research programmes in
various engineering and allied disciplines.
¤ Iron Ore production slated to touch 43 lakh
tonnes in 2005-06, representing an increase ¤ In order to support massive investments, top
of 40% over the previous year. priority accorded to im prov ement in
infrastructural facilities. For creating quality
¤ Investigations to assess heavy minerals in infrastructure development in IT sector, an
beach sand along the Puri Coast, exploration export promotion industrial park set up at
for Gemstone in Bolangir and Bargarh, Bhubaneswar.
exploration for Bauxite in Koraput and
Kandhamal, investigations for Tungsten and ¤ In promoting small and medium enterprises
Graphite in Angul and Dhenkanal districts in the State, 2255 small industries were set
up during 2005-06 with an investment of
going on.
Rs.123.23 crores providing employment to
¤ Ef f ectiv e steps being taken up f or approximately 10,308 persons.
enforcement of Orissa Mineral Act, 1989 to ¤ State Institute for Development of Arts and
curb illegal mining activities and trading of Crafts set up for superior design, product
ores and minerals. development and training. A strategy of
Industries : Creating a Conducive cluster development adopted for developing
Atmosphere for Investors different handicraft clusters.
¤ To accelerate industrial development, Information Technology : Heading for a
employment opportunities and economic Knowledge Rich Society
growth a single window clearance ¤ The State is making significant strides in
mechanism introduced by enacting Orissa Information Technology sector. MOUs signed
Industries (facilitation) Act, 2004 ensuring with TCS and Wipro to set up Development
time-bound clearance of inv estment Centers at Infocity in Bhubaneswar. Other
proposals and rationalization of inspections. companies like Hexaware Technologies &
¤ Orissa in recent years, has emerged a Mind Free Consulting are keen to invest in
favourite destination for investors especially the state. All these companies are expected
in mineral sector. Since 2003-04, 46 to directly employ about 5000 software
companies have already signed MOUs, of professionals by 2007-08 besides creating
which 43 in steel sector with a capacity of substantial indirect employment.
58.14 MTPA and investment of about ¤ An e-procurement system initiated jointly by
Rs.1,37,156 crore and two in Aluminium Government of Orissa, National Institute of
sector with an investment of Rs.25,000 crore. Smart Governance (NISG) and National
¤ 14 steel companies have started partial Informatics Centre (NIC) to bring in a
commercial production with an investment transparent and efficient system of tendering
of Rs.10,750 crore creating direct and procurement.
employment opportunities for about 10,000 ¤ State Wide Area Network (SWAN), a core
persons. e-Gov ernance infrastructure under
¤ Indian Oil Corporation all set to set up a im plementation to connect the State
Refinery and Petro-chemical Complex of 12 Headquarters with all district headquarters,
MTPA capacity at Paradeep with an Sub-Div ision headquarters, block
investment of Rs.25,000 crore. Headquarters with a 2 mbps dedicated line.
¤ Acknowledging development in technical ¤ The Ori ya language pack under the
education, a key element for employment programme "Technology Development for
generation, BPUT signed an MOU with IIT, Indian languages" to enable Oriya Language
Kharagpur to obtain assistance for facility computing completed.
82
¤ Project e-sishu aiming at creating a database managers identified to take up publicity and
of the 3 pillars of education namely children, promotion professionally.
teachers and school taken up by OPEPA
¤ A new logo adopted to re-position and rebrand
and jointly being executed with OCAC. This
Orissa as a Vibrant Tourist Destination.
would help achiev ing our goal of
universalisation of primary education and ¤ Various strategic
ensuring that no child of the state left out of tourism projects
school. such as Peace
Park at Dhauli,
Science & Technology : Opening New Vistas
infrastructure
¤ Gramsat Pilot Project being implemented in dev elopment in
the State to provide satellite communication Buddhist circuit
in remote areas. Under this project direct comprising
reception sets installed in the State capital, Lalitgiri, Udayagiri,
all districts, block headquarters and 1179 Ratnagiri & Langudi and tourism development
Grampanchayat Headquarters in KBK at Pipili taken up.
districts.
¤ A Special Tourism area being developed
¤ Four schools in Koraput district now covered between Puri and Chilika through IDCO for
by EDUSAT Programme launched in October development of up-market tourism.
1, 2005.
¤ For promotion and marketing, a slew of
¤ Acknowledging tourism f airs and f estiv als such as
the potential of Sreekhetra Utsav at Puri, Ekamra Utsav at
Biotechnology, Bhubaneswar, Konark Festival at Konark
steps taken to set being supported showcasing the tourism and
up a Bio- cultural potential of the State.
Technology park
¤ Orissa Tourism participated in Travel-Trade
in Bhubaneswar.
shows like Buddhist festival at Bangkok,
¤ Target set to Leisure Moscow at Moscow, W TM at
electrif y 1000 London, PATA convention at Kualamlumpur,
remote villages IATO at Kochi, TTF at Kolkata, Road show
through non-conventional energy sources. at Raipur etc.
¤ To facilitate f undamental research in ¤ 373 guides trained to promote private sector
mathematics, steps taken to establish an participation in tourism sector.
Institute of Mathematics as a center of
Culture : Broadening Cultural Horizon
excellence at Bhubaneswar.
¤ Kalamandal, a multipurpose cultural complex
¤ To inculcate scientif ic temper among
to promote song, music, dance and drama
children, the 13th National Childrens' Science
under construction.
Congress was organized at Bhubaneswar in
December 2005. It was inaugurated by His ¤ Under Raja Rammohan Ray library foundation
Excellency, the President of India Dr. A.P.J. scheme, book assistance and storage
Abdul Kalam. provided to rural libraries and Gandhi
Pathagaras.
Tourism : Making Orissa a Preferred Destination
¤ 'Sri Jagannathayan' a novel venture initiated
¤ Acknowledging the importance of Tourism
for the propagation and popularization of Sri
promotion in economic growth of the State,
Jagannath culture in contemporary
Media Management Agencies and event
perception.
83
¤ 12th Finance ¤ New initiatives taken to provide employment

Commission to opportunities and create self-employment
provide Rs.50 avenues for ST youths by skill upgradation
crore f or training in ITIs and polytechnics.
H e r i t a g e ¤ Employment rallies organized in tribal areas
Conservation in
for recruitment of tribal youths in Defence
the state.
services.
¤ An Artists Welfare Fund formed to provide ¤ Assistance also provided to 4158 SC families,
financial support to indigent and distressed 643 ST families and 26 liberated safai
artists. karmacharis through OSFDC.
ST & SC Development : Enriching the Quality ¤ Assistance provided towards payment of
of Tribal Life monetary relief to 180 SC and 97 ST victims
¤ To improve the income of tribal households of atrocities under the SCs and STs (PoA) Act,
and productivity of their land "Orissa Tribal 1989.
Empowerment and Livelihood Programme"
(OTELP) launched with assistance from IFAD- Women & Child Development : Empowering
DFID-WB, from October 2, 2004 with an outlay Women
of Rs.430.73 crore covering 30 tribal blocks of ¤ In improving health status of children,
seven southern districts. adolescent girls, pregnant women and
¤ Control over 60 minor forest produce and NTFP lactating mothers, a holistic approach initiated
which account for a substantial part of tribals' in the state through Integrated Child
house-hold income transferred to Gram Development Programme covering about 31
Panchayats. lakh persons.
¤ Restoration of alienated tribal land to its rightful
¤ To improve nutritional status of malnourished
owners.
children, a programme called 'Aame Bi
¤ Regularisation of Pre-1980 forest habitations. Paribu' being implemented.
¤ Olichiki included in the 9th schedule of the
constitution. ¤ A special intervention programme 'Kishori
Shakti Yojana' designed for adolescent girls
¤ Minor forest cases and minor criminal cases
in the age group of 11 to 18 years, being
against tribals withdrawn.
implemented in all 326 ICDS projects of the
¤ All-weather roads to tribal habitations of 500 state, aim ing at correcting gender
population.
disadvantages and providing a supportive
¤ Hamlets to be treated as habitations for environment.
rehabilitation packages.
¤ About 51 lakh school children in 69,700
¤ Price of kendu leaf bundles procured by the
Forest Department increased to 21 paise from schools being provided cooked meals under
16 paise and large number of new collection Mid Day Meal programme everyday.
centers opened. ¤ To empower the women of the state about
¤ Women self-help groups provided with loan 1,76,000 Self Help Groups formed under
linkages to augment tribals' family income. Mission Shakti. Of this, about 1.6 lakh groups
¤ Tribal villages being electrified on priority basis. given advance credit to the tune of Rs.370
¤ Tahasildars disposing of cases in camp courts crore.
in stead of revenue headquarters. ¤ Old Age Pension increased to Rs.200/- per
¤ Decision taken to provide house sites to all month under State Old Age Pension Scheme
eligible homesteadless tribals. covering about 6,75,000 persons.
84
Energy : A Pioneer in Power areas created 107 lakh mandays by utilizing

about 60,000 MTs of rice.
¤ Steps taken to provide access to all rural
households during next five years. ¤ Under Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana
33655 swarojgaries benefited by utilizing
¤ Under Minimum Need Programme (MNP), Rs.35.94 crore during 2005-06.
4696 villages, hamlets and dalit bastis
programmed to be electrified. Of this, ¤ Steps under process to computerize 2742
electrification of 2965 villages and hamlets Gram Panchayats having population more
completed by December 2005. than 5000.
¤ Being a surplus state in electrici ty ¤ All 314 blocks and 30 DRDAs provided with
production, surplus power to the tune of V-sat connectivity.
Rs.420 crore sold to Power Trading ¤ New software tools PRIYA-SOFT and
Corporation and National Vidyut Vyapar RURAL-SOFT developed for accounts and
Nigam through GRIDCO during the 2005-06 scheme monitoring.
by December 2005.
¤ State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD)
¤ 7 projects with estimated cost of Rs.592 crore conducted 96 training programmes for 5367
approved by Govt. of India for implementation participants in 2005-06.
of Accelerated Power Development and
Reforms Programme (APDRP). PGPA : Redressal of Grievances
¤ Highly efficient Orissa Power Generation
¤ During the year 2005-06, 9589 grievance
Corporation (OPGC) paid a dividend of
petitions received and processed f or
Rs.31.25 crore to the State Government
redressal.
during 2005-06 (Interim).
¤ 26338 persons benef ited through 21
Panchayati Raj : Power to the People
'Janasampark Sibiras' organized in different
¤ Conf ormi ng to the mandate of 73rd districts.
amendment of the constitution, the process ¤ One Pension Adalat (118th) conducted in
of devolution of powers to Panchayati Raj which 288 cases disposed off.
Institutions going on with transfer of various
subjects of different departments to PRIs. Rural Development : Improving Quality of
Rural Life
¤ To provide atleast 100 days of guaranteed
employment to rural people, National Rural ¤ In according priority to rural connectivity in
Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) the state, 4067.15 kms of all-weather roads
launched in the State in 19 districts covering constructed under Pradhan Mantri Gram
205 blocks and 3672 GPs. This will guarantee Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
unskilled employment to every household in ¤ With the assistance of NABARD, 151 bridges
33527 villages covering 4078982 households. and 368 kms of road completed.
¤ 30501 Indira Awas constructed in 2005-06 ¤ Under Swajaldhara Yojana, 290 Drinking
by December. Water Projects completed. 8382 tube wells,
¤ Under Sampurna Grameen Rojgar Yojana 223 sanitary wells and 112 piped supply
374 lakh mandays generated by utilizing 2 water project completed during 2005-06 by
lakh MTs of foodgrains and cash of Rs.218 December.
crore in 2005-06. ¤ Under Total Sanitation Programme 8.22 lakh
individual households latrines and 7994
¤ A special component of the SGRY,
school toilets and 296 Anganwadi toilets
implemented in natural calamity affected
constructed at a project cost of Rs.440 crore.
85
Food, Supplies & Consumer Welfare : Reaching ¤ Valmiki Ambedkar Awas Yojana being
out to Poor implemented to provide dwelling units to slum
¤ Under Antyodaya Anna Yojana, 35 kg rice dwellers.
per family per month being provided to about ¤ Steps taken for a perspective plan for
10 lakh poorest of the poor families at highly Cuttack-Bhubaneswar urban complex with
subsidized price of Rs.3 per kg. An additional the help of IIT-Kharagpur to promote planned
2.63 lakh families going to be covered shortly growth of the twin cities and hinterland.
under the scheme.
¤ Bhubaneswar and Puri selected under
¤ Under Annapurna Scheme, 10 kg of rice per Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal
beneficiary per month being supplied free of Mission (JNNURM) f or massiv e
cost to 64800 senior citizens. developmental projects in next seven years.
¤ To protect the rights of consumers, one State ¤ With the help of the funds available under
Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission 12th Finance Commission Award the urban
at Cuttack and 31 district Consumer local bodies planning to take up scientific
Redressal Forums functioning in the State. management of solid waste.
¤ W ith a corpus of Rs.1 crore a State Health & Family Welfare : Quality Health Care
Consumer Welfare Fund created for taking for the Poor
up consumer awareness programme. ¤ National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)
Urban Development : Civic Amenities for launched in the state on 17th June, 2005 to
Urban Life provide effective healthcare to entire rural
mass of the state.
¤ The Government committed to meet the ¤ An innovative scheme ASHA, Accredited
increasing demand for better civic amenities Social Health Activist launched to reach out
and infrastructure facilities for a burgeoning all village Panchayats. ASHA will be the first
urban population. point health contact in each village with a
¤ About 660 population of 1000 or more. So far 6861
million numbers of ASHA identified in the state.
litres of ¤ Under NRHM two Community Health Centres
drinking in each district will be upgraded in the line of
w a t e r Indian Public Health Standards. An united
suppl ie d fund of Rs.10,000/- will be allotted to each
per day for Health Sub-Centre of the state to implement
nearly 4.5 the programme.
million urban population in 103 local bodies.
¤ To meet the shortfall of doctors in the state,
¤ 16907 hand pumps set up in urban areas to 17 organisations given clearance f or
cater to the needs of the weaker section. establishment of Medical and Dental Colleges
in private sector. To promote medical colleges
¤ Three major water supply projects at
in western Orissa by private entrepreneurs,
Rourkela, Angul and Talcher nearing
decision taken to provide 25 acres of land
completion.
free of premium and Rs.10 crore in 3 years
¤ A water supply project f or Titilagarh on reimbursement basis towards creation of
commissioned. infrastructure.
¤ The living conditions of urban slum dwellers ¤ One medical college with 100 seats and one
being improved under National Slum Dental College with 60 seats made functional
Development Programme (NSDP). in 2005-06 in the private sector.
86
¤ MBBS seats of SCB Medical College, sqkm land area and 20 km wide habitat of
Cuttack increased from 107 to 150. 1408 sqkm marine area in Gahirmatha
Marine Sanctuary.
Co-operation : Credit Support to Farmers
¤ Afforestation programme under different state
¤ Short-term cooperative credit structure
and central plans implemented over an area
implemented to double agricultural credit in
of 19,090 hectares.
3 years with 2003-04 as base year.
¤ Financial support provided for medicinal and
¤ Crop-loan inv estm ent registered an
herbal plantation in 1000 acres of private land
impressive 29% growth during 2004-05 and
with active promotion by state Medicinal
34% in Kharif in 2004-05.
Plant Board.
¤ About 24.25 lakh Kissan Credit Cards (KCC)
¤ Kenduleaf Trading generates 150 lakh
issued to farmers, out of which 2.23 lakh
mandays of employment every year.
KCCs issued during 2005-06 by the end of
December 2005. ¤ 9 lakh pluckers benefited from Kendu leaf
collection during the season.
¤ KCC holders who repay for two consecutive
years are issued with Kalinga Kissan Gold ¤ Bamboo working, a potential employment
Cards (KKGC). About 1.27 lakh KKGCs generation activity, commenced timely in the
issued, out of which 32000 card issued during current season in all districts having bamboo
2005-06 by the end of December 2005. forests.
¤ About 1.21 lakh Kalinga Kissan Silver Cards ¤ Forest Department generated 55 lakh
issued by December 2005. mandays of employment through its
activities.
¤ Under Crop Insurance Scheme, a total
amount of Rs.15.04 crore disbursed to ¤ Chilika Development Authority in partnership
farmers for indemnity of crop loss during with v arious stakehol ders working
2005-06 by the end of December 2005. ceaselessly for eco-restoration of the lagoon.
¤ Procurement target of 1,50,000 MTs of Paddy ¤ To control pollution effectively, ban on
fixed for the year 2005-06 for collection polythene of less than 20 microns imposed.
through network of cooperatives. Of this
Revenue : Human Face of Intervention
about 1,00,000 MTs of paddy to be procured
through Primary Agricultural Cooperative ¤ A Pragmatic Resettlement & Rehabilitation
Society (PACS) and 50,000 MTs through Policy put in place for a meaningful solution
State Cooperative Marketing Fedeation to the problems of displaced families. This
(MARKFED). is a pioneering poli cy of the State
Government in comparison to other States.
Forest & Environment : Promoting an Eco-
friendly Environment ¤ To facilitate the personal land holding records
of the citizens, Land Pass Books being
¤ Top priority accorded on programmes for
issued to each land holding families in the
providing livelihood support to forest fringe
state with effect from 26th January, 2006 at
dwellers, increasing forest wealth and
a nominal fee of Rs.20/- with full exemption
promotion of environmental awareness.
to BPL families. This Pass Book will also
¤ 9549 Van Samrakshan Samities (VSS) serve the purpose of certificate in respect of
involved in joint forest management of over caste, income, legal heir, residence and
8431 sqkm of degraded forests. identity.
¤ Protected Area Network of wil dlif e ¤ Under Basundhara scheme, land distributed
sanctuaries and National Parks cover 6611 to 14,588 homesteadless families, out of
87
which 7827 ¤ States Own Tax to GSDP ratio increased

families belong from 4.4% in 1999-2000 to 7.2% in 2004-05.
to scheduled
Tri bes and ¤ Revenue Deficit reduced from about Rs.2574
3234 families crore in 1999-2000 to Rs.522 crore in 2004-
belong to 05. This represents reduction of Revenue
scheduled Deficit as a percentage of GSDP from 6.7%
castes. The to 0.91%.
scheme aims at providing land to 2,49,334 ¤ Fiscal Deficit reduced from Rs.3836 crore
such families within three years from 2005- (9.7%) in 1999-2000 to Rs.1365 crore
06 to 2007-08. (2.37%) in 2004-05.
¤ 157 tehsils of the state out of total 171, fully School & Mass Education : Grooming our
computerized. Future Hope
¤ During the year 2004-05 Government land to
the extent of 5033 Acres distributed among ¤ Giv ing priority to universalization of
6,075 landless families which included 1053 elementary education, 70.18 lakh children
SC and 2954 ST landless families. During enrolled in schools at elementary level.
the year 2005-06 by October, 2005, ¤ Orissa Child Census - 2005 taken up for
Government land to the extent of 1553 Acres better planning and development of education
distributed among 1592 landless families and health of children.
including 700 ST and 246 SC landless
families. ¤ Impressive performance shown by 'Sarba
Sikhya Abhiyan' in the state at national level
Public Enterprises : Protecting Workers' Interest
for utilization of funds.
¤ To revive potentially viable loss making ¤ About 3.17 crore text books supplied to
enterprises, a selective privatization and 60,93,000 elementary students during 2005-
disinvestments policy adopted in 'non-core' 06.
sector. ¤ About 24.84 lakh girl students in government
¤ A conscious policy for a model of privatization elementary schools supplied uniform free of
to secure the interest of workers and create cost through village education committees.
opportunities for further jobs by catalyzing ¤ To develop and safeguard Oriya language and
the dynamism of private sector adopted. culture 'Oriya Bhasa Pratisthan' established.
¤ A set of 'core' enterprises identified to operate ¤ A new programme called Education Satellite
in the public domain. (EDUSAT) launched in the state from October
¤ State all set for Public Enterprises Reforms - 2005 to support elementary and secondary
Programme with external assistance of 30 education.
million pounds. Higher Education : Setting Standards
Finance : Inculcating Fiscal Discipline
¤ A Uniform Academic Calendar framed for all
¤ A number of steps taken to correct the
degree colleges.
structural imbalances in the State Finances
after an MOU signed with Department of ¤ An increasing number of colleges being put
Expenditure, Government of India and under assessment of National Association
enactment of 'Orissa Fiscal Responsibility and Accreditation Council (NAAC) to study
and Budget Management Act, 2005.' the quality of education in colleges.
88
¤ Five Non-Government aided colleges declared Labour & Employment : Stimulating

as autonomous apart from the existing 18. Employment Opportunities
¤ Ravenshaw University Act, 2005 passed in
¤ Full medical care extended to the industrial
Orissa Legislative Assembly.
labourers and their family members through
¤ Establishment of a National Law University a network of ESI hospitals and dispensaries.
under active consideration. Rs.1,02,66,000 approved for payment for the
¤ Admission in 15 different trades allowed in year 2005-06 towards reimbursement cost
vocational institutions. of treatment of ESI beneficiaries from
Revolving Corpus Fund.
¤ Rs.35 crores allocated for developmental
activities to be undertaken in different ¤ Child labours employed in hazardous jobs
Universities during 2006-07. released and admitted under National Child
Labour Project Scheme for being imparted
¤ Uniform Dress Code introduced in all formal education and vocational training.
autonomous colleges from academic session
2005-06. ¤ 22 model carrier corners and 12 students
information Bureaus in women colleges and
Commerce & Transport : Formulating a girls high schools in tribal and backward
Pragmatic Port Policy districts opened for utilization by girl
students.
¤ A sum of Rs.404.87 crores collected as M.V.
Tax against the target of Rs.400 crore upto ¤ 18 Child Labour Projects functioning in 18
March, 2006, with 101% achievement. districts of the State. Till now, 33,843 child
labours admitted in special schools run by
¤ Pension cells constituted for sanction of National Child labour Projects and 64,885
pension of retired S.T.S. employees and 2128 child labours mainstreamed to formal
cases disposed by end of March, 2006. schooling system.
¤ Gopalpur Port to be developed as an all ¤ Minim um W ages
weather port. payable to unskilled,
¤ L & T and TISCO taken up joint plan to semi-skilled, skilled
construct a big international standard port at and highly skilled
Dhamra. categories of workers
increased.
¤ Three new trains introduced by Railways
namely Sampark Kranti Express from ¤ Under the direct
Bhubaneswar to New Delhi, A New DMU supervision of Chief
Passenger train and another passenger train Minister, State
from Cuttack to Paradeep during the year Employment Mission
2005-06. in association with
Directorate of Technical Education and
¤ Smart card based driving licenses and
Training, launched vocational training
registration certificates to be issued in all RTO
programmes for both educated and semi-
offices soon.
educated unemployed youth. 4225
¤ 10 RTO offices and 7 checkgates alongwith candidates being trained for skilling and re-
State Transport Authority computerized. skilling in various market friendly courses.
89
Fishery & Animal Resources Development : the Right to Inf ormation Act, 2005
Strengthening Rural Economy implemented effectively in the State from 12th
October, 2005 with Information & Public
¤ Following the Relations as the nodal department for
objectives set implementation.
out in "State
¤ For proactive disclosure required under the
A g r i c u l t ur e
Policy" and provisions of the Act, all the Government
by adopting Departments making information available
new scientific through the State Government websites.
t ech nol ogy, ¤ Orissa Information Commission constituted
emphasis on and started functioning.
milk, fish & meat production laid.
¤ 'Oriya Film and Cultural Festival' organized
¤ Total milk production per day touches 36 lakh successfully in Mumbai in January, 2006 as
litres, up by 3 lakh litres.
a part of inter-state cultural exchange
¤ All 30 districts of the state, covered by Orissa programme.
Milk Federation (OMFED) to promote diary
¤ A developmental feature "Ama Katha - Odissa
f arming. OMFED increased it's milk
Katha" being telecast every Saturday through
procurement substantially to 2.70 lakh litres
per day. Doordarshan, Bhubaneswar.
¤ Under STEP programme, OMFED is running ¤ A multi-pronged strategy adopted to gather

'Women Diary Projects' in 17 districts. f eedback on the im plementation of
developmental programmes.
¤ 837 women diary cooperative societies
comprising 60,287 women formed in the Sports & Youth Services : Promoting Sports
State. Talents
¤ Under RLTAP, Rs.350 lakh released in the
year 2005-06 for milk production and allied ¤ To provide nutrient balanced diets to inmates
activities in KBK districts. of sports hostels, the monthly stipend per
month per inmate increased from Rs.1200
¤ OMFED aims at achieving milk production to Rs.2250 from January 1, 2006.
of 3.50 lakh litres per day and for creating
self employment for 10,000 rural farmers ¤ Toiletery allowances of Rs.100 per month
during 2006-07. introduced for girl inmates from January 7,
2006.
¤ For scientific pisciculture in reservoirs, a
'State Reservoir Fishery Policy' approved. ¤ An international standard swimming pool
constructed inside Kalinga Stadium to
¤ Under RLTAP, 13 reservoirs having water
spread area of 5709 hectares taken up for promote the sport. Built at a cost of about
pisciculture development in KBK districts. Rs.2.72 crore, this will soon be converted
into a composite Aqua-Sports Complex with
¤ During 2005-06, 101 reservoirs taken up construction of
under pisciculture through Fishermen Diving Pool and
Cooperative Societies and Self Help Groups. Practice Pool.
Information & Public Relations : Improving ¤ O r i s s a
People's Access to Information delegates
v isited Port-
¤· In order to promote transparency and
Blair under
accountability in the system of Governance,
90
Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme from Law : Justice for All

February 13 to March 7, 2006.
¤ Eight special Judge (vigilance) Courts to open
¤ The relaying work of Synthetic Astroturf in
in phases as a measure to provide justice to
the field of sports Hostel, Panposh under all.
progress.
¤ 446 Lok Adalats organized to dispose of
¤ To develop and maintain Sports Infrastructure about 91,000 cases.
in the state, a sum of Rs.465.79 lakh
¤ Legal Awareness camps being organized to
allocated in State Budget for 2006-07.
create legal awareness among rural and tribal
¤ Biju Patnaik Sports & Bravery Award - 2006 people.
conferred on eminent sports persons of the ¤ Sri Jagannath Temple Act amended with
State including Shradhanjali Samantaray, senior officials like Chief Administrator in the
presently captain of Indian women football rank of Commissioner, given the charge to
team. strengthen temple Administration.
¤ All India Kalinga Cup Football Tournament Textile & Handlooms : Weaving Success
revived.
¤ Nearly 2.00 crores of Handloom fabrics by
¤ Proposal to set up a State Sports Academy the primary cooperative societies and apex
for Hockey & Athletics inside Kalinga societies marketed through Direct Marketing
Stadium at an estimated cost of about Rs.20 in Exhibition
crore approved in principle. at the
Nati onal,
¤ 221 outstanding sports persons of the state State and
received cash incentives for the year 2004- District
05 and 2005-06. lev els last
Home : Maintaining Law & Order year.
¤ A pilot
¤ Law and Order situation of the State during project for
2005-06 remained peaceful and communal building sustainable livelihood of weavers and
sericulture farmers under W orld Bank
harmony prevailed during the period.
assisted Orissa fund for Development
¤ Modernisation of Orissa Police going on at a Initiatives with a project cost of about Rs.5
fast pace. An allocation of Rs.235.62 crore crore started with effect from April 2006.
spent during the period 2000-2005. ¤ To promote handloom products worldwide,
the state participated for the first time in
¤ The State Forensic Science Laboratories
international marketing events like Gift Fair-
being equipped with modern equipments.
Mumbai, IFTEX-Delhi and Heimtextil-
¤ As a mark of commitment to make justice frankturt.
accessible to grassroots level, 17 Fast Track ¤ Status of state TDCC granted to Orissa
Court Buildings constructed during 2005. Cooperative Tassar & Silk Federation (serifed)
by Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Govt. of India.
¤ Modernisation of prison infrastructure and
providing better healthcare to the inmates ¤ During 10th plan, sericulture sector provided
going on. employment to around 18,000 families with
additional annual income of Rs.9000 per
¤ To combat the menace of naxalism, family. This includes 10,000 SC & ST farmers
appropriate strategies evolved. in Tassar, Eri and Mulberry cultivation.
91
Planning & Co-ordination : Evolving ¤ A sum of Rs.4,30,000/- and Rs.23,30,000/-

Sustainable Strategies provided from Chief Ministers Relief Fund to
the next of the kins of 43 and 233 victims
¤ A Revised Long Term Action Plan (RLTAP)
killed in Heat wave during 2004-05 and 2005-
formulated for the KBK districts namely,
06.
Koraput, Malkangiri, Nawarangpur,
Rayagada, Balangir, Sonepur, Kalahandi and ¤ Assistance to the tune of Rs.1 crore provided
Nuapada with the core objectives of drought from CMRF for the relief and restoration of
proofing, development saturation, poverty earth-quake hit Jammu & Kashmir during
alleviation and improved quality of life of the 2005-06.
people.
Works : Strengthening Infrastructure
¤ Ganjam, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati, Keonjhar and
Sundargarh districts included in Backward ¤ Efforts on to improve physical connectivity
Districts Initiatives (BDI) of Rastriya Sam in the state by construction, improvement,
Vikas Yojana (RSVY). repair and maintenance of roads and bridges
¤ A special Rural Connectivity Programme for of State Highways, National Highways &
the KBK districts conceptualised. Major District Roads.
¤ In evolving a poverty reduction strategy, a ¤ 8 Bridges and 221 kms of road completed
Poverty Task Force constituted. during 2005-06 by December 2005.
General Administration : Accelerating ¤ Government of India sanctioned Rs.43.5 crore

Governance Initiatives during 2004-05 and Rs.17 crore for 2005-06
to take up 6 road projects and 2 industrial
¤ A programme for improving Transparency and road projects with a total length of 100 km.
Accountability by making available required
information to the citizens through the web, ¤ With a view to provide quality road for
launched in the state inv olving nine upcoming industries in the state under
Departments and nine districts on a pilot Economic Importance Scheme, roads being
basis. improved with an estimated cost of Rs.210
crore in 3 years commencing from 2005-06.
¤ Target set to complete 22 bridges and
improve 475 km of roads with an outlay of
Rs.223 crore during 2006-07.
¤ Implementation of National e-Governance

plan to enable delivery of citizen's services
through one stop shop under implementation.
¤ Assistance to the tune of Rs.1,83,22,966/-
and Rs.2,08,34,763/- provided from the Chief
Minister's Relief Fund in favour of 1885 and
2105 indigent applicants for treatment of major
ailments during 2004-05 and 2005-06.
92
ORISSA REVIEW
VOL. LXII NO. 10 MAY - 2006
DIGAMBAR MOHANTY, I.A.S.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary
BAISHNAB PRASAD MOHANTY

Director-cum-Joint Secretary
SASANKA SEKHAR PANDA

Joint Director-cum-Deputy Secretary
Editor
BIBEKANANDA BISWAL
Associate Editor
Debasis Pattnaik
Sadhana Mishra
Editorial Assistance
Manas R. Nayak
Cover Design & Illustration
Hemanta Kumar Sahoo

Manoj Kumar Patro
D.T.P. & Design
Raju Singh
Manash Ranjan Mohanty
Photo
The Orissa Review aims at disseminating knowledge and information concerning Orissas
socio-economic development, art and culture. Views, records, statistics and information published
in the Orissa Review are not necessarily those of the Government of Orissa.
Published by Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Orissa,
Bhubaneswar - 751001 and Printed at Orissa Government Press, Cuttack - 753010.
For subscription and trade inquiry, please contact : Manager, Publications, Information & Public
Relations Department, Loksampark Bhawan, Bhubaneswar - 751001.
Five Rupees / Copy E-mail : iprsec rediffmail.com

Fifty Rupees / Yearly Visit : http://orissagov.nic.in
Contact: Ph. 0674-2411839
CONTENTS
Mineral Potential of Orissa State : A Kaleidoscopic Review Rakesh Kumar Satapathy

Shreerup Goswami ... 1
An Encounter with Flood of 1980 Gopinath Mohanty ... 15
Glimpses of "Performing Art" Heritage in Orissan

Inscriptions Dr. D.B. Mishra ... 22
Karamula : A Village Where Tradition and Heritage

Play Enterprise Gurbir Singh ... 30
Lord Jagannath : Symbol of Unity and Integration Dr. Chitrasen Pasayat ... 33
Poverty and Performance of Major Welfare Schemes Prasant Sarangi

in Gajapati District Satyabrata Pattanaik ... 37
Changing Faces of Business B.N. Biswal ... 45
Education of Tribal Children in Kandhamal District Raghunath Rath ... 50
Relevance of Folk Theatres in Modern Times Indu Bhusan Kar ... 60
AUCC Bank Laid to Produce Successful Entrepreneurs Choudhury B.K. Das ... 64
Hitherto Unknown Stone Inscriptions of West Orissa S.S. Panda ... 66
The Literary Heritage of Sonepur Dr. Pabitra Mohan Nayak ... 72
Orissa : New Frontiers of Development ... 80

EDITORIAL Orissa
Review
Change is the spice of the civilisation. The subtle change begets many possibilities.
Many changes have taken place during the last two years to improve the socio-
economic condition of the people. In the fields of agriculture, water resources, women
& child development, industries, steel & mines, ST, SC & Backward Classes
development, education, information technology and other sectors there has been
perceptible progress. The concept of good governance has already become the abiding
principle. Transparency and accountability have set in. The perception of the people
creates confidence in the system of governance. No doubt government s intervention
facilitates the path for progress. But it is the people whose participatory role
materialises the fruits of development to be experienced. Under a dynamic and
visionary leadership of the Chief Minister of Orissa the trend of growth treads on.
The feeling is quite comfortable. May it be investors, opinion makers or the people,
every corner recognises the change. The May issue of Orissa Review attempts to
project these changes in a succinct manner. We hope, it will be of interest to readers.
Mineral Potential of Orissa State :

A Kaleidoscopic Review
Rakesh Kumar Satapathy
Shreerup Goswami
Orissa, a major state of India has enormous Occurrences

mineral potential and is rich in mineral resources. The main Bauxite deposits of Orissa are
Many of the minerals are known to be in abandon associated with the Eastern Ghats Super Group
supply, while many are least known in this state. of rocks and form the major component of the
Orissa produces enormous minerals including non- East Coast Bauxite (ECB) deposits. All the East
metallic, metallic and fuel minerals. Orissa stood Coast Bauxite cappings over Khondalite in Orissa
one of major producer of Chromite, Nickel, Iron, sector e.g., Ballada, Maliparbat, Panchpatmali,
Manganese, Tin, Graphite, Bauxite, Lead and Zinc Kodingamali, Karnapadikonda, Bapulimali,
in India. Among the fuel minerals, coal of Ib-River Sijimali, Lanjigarh etc. of Koraput and Kalahandi
and Talcher coalfields continues to play a districts occur in a single planation surface (
dominant role among the domestic energy +900m above MSL ).
resources in this state. In terms of geographical Bauxite caps the Gandharmardan plateau
distribution of mineral resources of India, about over Khondalite on the Border of Bolangir-
10-14 % of mineral production comes from the Sambalpur districts. It occurs at an elevation of
state of Orissa. Let us discuss the mineral potential 940-1000 above MSL.
of the state one by one briefly.
Bauxite occurs in the Kandhamal hills
BAUXITE ORE overlying the Vindhyan shale at an elevation of
960m above MSL.
Introduction
Small and isolated bauxite cappings occur
Bauxite is a heterogeneous ore of
over BIF (shale) formation at elevations of 610-
aluminium. It is derived from Khondalite and
671m above MSL around Kusumdihi in
Charnockite consists of Gibbsite, Goethite and Sundargarh District.
Kaolinite in varying proportion with some Garnet,
Hematite, and Ilmenite as accessory minerals. Bauxite with intercalated laterite caps over
metavolcanics on the flat-topped hill namely
Although Bauxite is the main source of Dholkata Pahar and Kanjipani range of Keonjhar
aluminium, it is the second abundant metal element District. These areas range from 727 to 848m
in the earth's crust after silicon. Bauxite is mined above MSL with intervening valleys around 600m
for production of alumina by the Bayer's process. above MSL.
1
All the hill ranges west of Nawana and east The major parts of the Talcher and Ib-River
of Similipal Garh and Bakua of Similipal Complex Coalfields are covered by the Talchir, Karharbari,
(Mayurbhanj), laterites are observed around Barakar, Barren Measures, Lower Kamthi
1000m above MSL (Das and Mohanty, 1998). (Raniganj) and Upper Kamthi sediments. Among
COAL them only Barakar, Karharbari and to some extent
Lower Kamthi (Raniganj) sediments are
Introduction: coaliferous (Manjrekar et al, 1998).
Out of 57 Gondwana and 14 tertiary CHINA CLAY
coalfields considered for the national inventory
of coal, Orissa state has only two. They are Ib- Introduction:
River coalfield and Talcher Coalfield. Yet its share China clay is also a clay like material
in the reserve so far established in the country comprising mostly mineral Kaolinite (Al2O3,
amounts to 23.6%. 2SiO2, 2H20) where A12O3, SiO2 and H2O%
Occurrences: are 39.5%, 46.56% and 13.94% respectively. It
has a specific gravity of 2.6 and a fusion point of
The Ib-River Coalfield is named after a 1.785°C.
tributary of the Mahanadi. The coalfield is located
in the southeastern part of Mahanadi Master Basin Kaolin deposit s have been for med by
and occupies an area 1460 sq. km. The coalfield decomposition of feldspathic granite. Kaolin
is bounded by latitudes 21030' and 22°14'N and occurs in form of pockets or lenses within the
longitudes 83°32' and 84°10'E. It covers parts main mass of granite.
of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda and Sambalpur Occurrences:
districts. It embraces the Hingir Sub- basin in the China clay is found to occur in a long belt
north and the Rampur Sub-basin in the south. stretching from southern Singhbhum to
Coalfields Latitude Longitude Districts Basinal area
in sq. Km.
Ib-River 21°31' 83°32' Jharsuguda, 1460
Coalfield 22°14' 84°10' Sundargarh & Sambalpur
Talcher 20°50' 84°09' Dhenkanal, Angul & 1813
Coalfield 21°15' 85°33' Sambalpur
The Talcher Coalfield constitutes the Mayurbhanj Granite belt. Badampahar-Joshipur,
southeastern most member of the Lower Karanjia- Ramchandrapur belt with a number of
Gondwana Mahanadi Master Basin and occupies deposits on either side of NH-6 is the most
an area of over 1813 sq km. The coalfield is important china clay producing area of the state.
bounded by latitudes 20°50' and 21°15' N and
longitudes 84°09' and 85° 33' E. This basin mainly Besides these, there are a few occurrences
occupies the Brahmani River Valley. It covers in Keonjhar, Sambalpur, Koraput, Sundargarh
parts of Dhenkanal and Angu1 districts along with and Dhenkanal districts.
a small portion of the adjoining Sambalpur The important deposits in Mayurbhanj
District. District are found near Joshipur, Dumuria, Jamba,
2
Kadodiha, Jamkeswar and Thakurmunda. The NICKEL ORE

china clay found in Joshipur area of the Maurbhanj Annual consumption of nickel in the country
District is pale cream to yellow in colour is about 15000 tonnes and almost the entire
(Mohanty, 1998). quantity is met through imports. Hence Sukinda
CHROMITE ultramafic complex, the only indigenous resources
of Nickel ore of India, should be utilized.
Introduction:-
The Sukinda ultramafic body is stratiform
Chromium is indispensable for industrial in nature and comprises inter-layered nickel and
complexes including aerospace, steel and special chrome rich rocks (dunite-peridotite and
alloys. Chromite is the only economic source of orthopyroxenite). The serpentinised dunite-
chromium. Chromite belongs to the spinel group peridotite members have been subjected to intense
and has the basic formula R++R2+++O4, where chemical weathering resulting in the formation of
R++=Mg, Fe with traces of Mn and Ni and a nickel rich limonite cover. Thus the lateritic nickel
R+++=Cr, AI, Fe with traces of Ti and V. It has ore is of secondary origin (Sahoo, 1998).
five major components viz., MgO, FeO, Cr2O3, PLATINUM GROUP OF ELEMENTS
Al2O3 and Fe2O3, whose proportions are greatly Platinum Group of Elements i.e. Platinum
controlled by the composition of the magma from (Pt), Palladium (Pd), Rhodium (Rh), Ruthenium
which the primary silicates and chrome spinel (Ru), Osmium (Os) and Iridium (Ir) are the rarest
crystallized. Pure chromite contains 67.9% by of precious metals in the earth's crust. In India,
weight of Chromic Oxide (Cr2O3) or 46.5% by only a minor amount of Palladium is recovered as
weight of Chromium. a byproduct from Singhbhum Copper belt,
Jharkhand. Besides, no other Platinum Group
Occurrence :- In Orissa chromites are confined Elements mine production is known in India.
to three areas.
Moreover, on the basis of geological
(a) Boula-Nuasahi in Keonjhar district. The criteria such as rock association, age, tectonic
chromite deposits occur at and around setting, depositional environment, geochemical
Bidyadharpur barrage, Nuasahi and Agarpara. association and abundances, the principal terrains
(b) Sukinda in Jajpur district. The main deposits for identification and delineation of Platinum
targets are: 1. Baula-Nuasahi, Keonjhar District
of Chromite and Nickel of Sukinda are present
2. Sukinda area, Jajpur District, 3. Singhbhum-
in the area Kamardah, Saruabil, Kaliapani,
Orissa Craton and 4.Amjori Hill, Keonjhar
Kathpal, Maruabil, Bhimtangar etc. District (Mukherjee, 1998).
(c) Bhalukasuni in Balasore district. The main IRON ORE
deposits of this area are Bhalukasuni village of
Introduction:
Nilgiri Sub-division.
Iron is a very important element comprising
(d) In Similipal ultramafic complex of Mayurbhanj
about 5% of the earth's crust. It is rarely found in
District, probable reserve of 27 million tonnes of native condition except in the meteorites and
laterite Nickel ore has been estimated by GSI eruptive rocks in association with Cobalt and
(Sahoo, 1998). Nickel.
3
The source minerals from which iron is being (b) Ib-River Coalfield :- The occurrences of this
extracted on commercial scale are only a few, area have been recorded near Jurabaga, Darlipali,
like Hematite, Magnetite, Goethite, Siderite. Rampur, Kuropal, Bariapahar, Khinda, Lukopali,
Occurrence: Kulda, Siarmal etc.
The iron ore deposits of the state occur in (c) Athgarh Basin :- Clays of Talabasta area
five distinct zones. belongs to Athgarh formation of upper Gondwana
(a) Bonai (Sundargarh District) Kendujhar of Cuttack district (Nanda and Bhol, 1998).
(Keonjhar District) Bett BASE METAL DEPOSITS
(b) Gandhamardhan of Keonjhar District. Introduction:-
(c) Tomka- Daitari of Jajpur District. Though Orissa is not a rich state in terms
(d) Gorumahisani-Badampahar of Mayurbhanj of the base metal ore deposits (Cu, Pb and Zn),
District. it has three small deposits to its credit, at various
(e) Hirapur of Nawarangpur District stages of exploration and development.
(Mohanty, 1998). Occurrences: -
FIRECLAY There are three occurrences of base metal
Introduction:- deposits in Orissa.
The term fireclay has been commonly (a) Adash Copper ore deposits :- It belongs to
applied to refractory clays, which can withstand Sambalpur district. The copper prospect
of 1500°C or higher temperature. It is basically (21°23'05"latitude 84°37'45") is situated at a
Kaolinite. distance of 120 km from Sambalpur Railway
On the basis of plasticity, fireclay is Station and can also be approached from Reamal
classified as plastic, semiplastic and non-plastic. on the Deogarh -Angul NH-6, 30km. Here
An important parameter of fireclay in Graphite is produced as co-product.
refractoriness expressed in terms of pyrometric
(b) Kesarpur Copper deposits: -The villages of
cone equivalent (PCE).
Mayurbhanj like Kesarpur, Dudhiasal and
Occurrence :- Madansahi encompassing the copper ore deposit
In Orissa fireclay are confined to three are located between latitudes 22°04' and longitude
geographical belts. 22°07'. The chief minerals of the ore are pyrite,
(a) Talcher Coalfield in Dhenkanal and pyrhotite and chalcopyrite, with minor amount of
Angul :- Nickel and Molybdenum.
In Talcher Coalfield, fireclay has been (c) Sargipalli Lead ore deposits:- Sargipalli
encountered in the following locations. deposit lies between the village Lokdega (22°02'
: 83°55') and Bharatpur (22°03' : 83°56') in
* Jagannath Colliery
Sundargarh district. The common primary
* South Balanda Colliery
* Near Kaniha Village minerals of the deposits are galena, chalcopyrite
* Near Ghantikhal Village and sphalerite (Patnaik et al, 1998).
4
GRAPHITE Girida of Dhenkanal and Angul districts (Mishra

et al, 1998).
Introduction:-
MANGANESE ORE
Natural graphite is an allotrope of elemental
carbon, which crystalises in the hexagonal system. Introduction:
It is a soft and opaque black mineral with a It was recognised as an element in 1774
metallic luster, greasy feel, hardness of 1to2 in by Swedish chemist Scheele, whose fellow
Moh's scale, specific gravity of 2.09 to 2.93. countryman, Ghan isolated the metal in the same
Occurrence :- year. The average crustal abundance of
manganese is slightly less than 1% (950 PPM).
The major graphite zone of Orissa is
coincident with the migmatised quartz- garnet - Manganese deposits are widespread in the
sillimanite - graphite schists of khondalite suite and world's land areas. The common primary minerals
its contact with medium -grained granite gneiss. of Manganese deposits of Orissa are pyrolusite,
The important graphite belts of the state are - Rhodonite, Manganite, Jacobsite and
Psilomelane.
(a) Sargipali belt :-(21000'-22°22':83°15'-83°40')
Occurrence:
Sargipali belt contains more than 150
occurrences, which belongs to the deposits of Manganese ore deposits of Orissa occur
Sargipali, Dangachancha, Darhamunda, in three distinct geological set-up
Sapmuna, Rengali, Mohanilah, Raju-Nagphena (a) Bonai-Keonjhar :- Bonai-Keonjhar belt
etc of Bargarh, Bolangir and Kalahandi districts. constitutes the most important manganese ore
(b)Titilagarh belt: (20006'-21024' :83°00'-83°45') producing region of the country.
Titilagarh belt contains more than 120 (b) South Orissa:-The manganese ore deposits
occurrences which belongs to the deposits of of south Orissa comprising parts of Rayagada,
Titilagarh,Boroni, Malisira, Singjharan, Loitora of Kalahandi and Bolangir districts are associated
Bolangir and Kalahandi districts. with Khondalite suit of rocks belonging to the
Eastern Ghats Super Group.
(c) Tumudibandh belt: (18°45'-20°00':83°00'-
83°45') (c) Ghoriajhor area of Sundargarh District -
Manganese bearing gondite of Ghoriajhor
Tumudibandh belt contains more than 50
formation is the youngest horizon occurring in the
occurrences, which belongs to the deposits of
core of Gangpur synclinoriun and confined to the
Tumudibandh, Lakhajorna, Palur, Raisil,
central part of the Gangpur group of meta-
Ambaguda of Phulbani, Rayagada and Gajapati
sedimentaries (Sarangi and Mohanty, 1998).
districts.
VANADIUM
(d) Dandatopa belt:-(20°37'-21000' : 84°15'-
84°45') Introduction :-
Dandatopa belt contains more then 22 Vanadium is an important alloying element.
occurrences, which belongs to the deposits of Addition of small amount often less than 0.1% to
Dandatopa, Adeswar, Kamalpur, Akharkata and steel and cast iron can significantly increase their
5
strength, toughness and ductility. In Orissa Occurrence :-

vanadium is confined to the by-product sludge of The resources of beach sand mineral in
Alumina plants. India are confined to the states of Kerala,
Magnetite associated with gabbro- Tamilnadu, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and
anorthosite suite of rocks contain Vanadium and Maharastra. In Orissa, Atomic Minerals Division
Titanium, occur at several locations in Mayurbhanj has explored a stretch of about 50 km from south
District. Vanadium bearing magnetites had also of Mahanadi mouth to Orissa-Andhra Pradesh
been recorded near Boula in Keonjhar district Border and identified a number of potential
and Godasahi and Rangamatia in Balasore district. deposits ranging in grade from 5% to 30% heavy
The Magnetite and Ilmenite form the bulk mineral. Ganjam coast is most important from the
composition of the ore. The mineral Coulsonite point of view of reserve and grade. The Indian
(FeV)3O4, is responsible for the vanadium content Rare Earths Limited (IREL) leasehold extends for
of the ore. a length of 18 kms along Chhatrapur coast
Occurrences :- between Rusikulya River confluence in the NE
and Gopalpur on the south-west. The different
In Orissa Vanadium bearing magnetite is confined identified blocks o f this deposit are
to five geographical belts. Pedalaxmipuram- Ramayapatna, Ramayapatna-
a) Rairangpur -Bisoi :-It includes deposits at Markandi, Niladripur- Kantiagarh, NE of
Kumardubi, Betjharan, Amdabeda, Gargari, Kantiagarh, East of Jhatiapadar, SE of Arunpur
Kunjakocha, Bhangapahar, Hatichar. (Siddiqui, 1998).
b) Bisoi -Joshipur :-It includes deposits at DIMENSION AND DECORATIVE
Mayurbeka, Kesham, Dhulabeda, Sialnoi, STONES
Bariadihi, Kundabari. Introduction :
c) Baripada -Podadiha :-It includes deposits at Any natural stone irrespect ive of
Bahalda, Andipur, Chitrabania. composition and origin, which can be cut, sized
d) Rangamatia (Betei) Godasahi :-Deposits at and shaped to suit the fancy and specification of
Rangamatia and Godasahi. the builders, designers and architects are marketed
as Dimension stones. The various rocks, which
e) Nausahi -Boula :-Deposits at Nausahi and
are quarried as dimension stones, include granite,
Baula (Nayak and Das, 1998).
marble, sandstone, limestone, slate, laterite and
BEACH SAND MINERALS khondalite.
Introduction :- Granite:
The term "Beach Sand Minerals" also called The suitability of granites for utilization as
Heavy minerals is usually associated with a group dimension stones depends to a large extent on
of industrial minerals comprising mainly Ilmenite, their physical, chemical and mineralogical
Rutile, Zircon, Monazite, Garnet and Sillimanite. properties. The dimension stones under the
The major gangue mineral in the beach sand "Granite" category can be broadly divided into
deposits is quartz. The specifications of these two types viz., acidic (composed of quartz,
minerals are given in the Table 1. orthoclase, perthite, biotite, muscovite, garnet etc)
6
and basic rocks ( composed dominantly of clino- Khondalite :

pyroxene and plagioclase ).
Khondalites are a typical constituent of the
Marble: East ern Ghats. It is quartz feldspathic
The term Marble is derived from latin word garnetiferous sillimanite schist/gneiss. These have
"Maarmor" which itself comes from Greek root, been used for construction of temples and are
meaning a shining stone. It is the recrystallised presently being used in the form of tiles for exterior
limestone. Commercially, marble is crystalline decoration and also for sculptural purposes.
rock composed of calcite, dolomite or serpentine, Occurrences :-
which can take polish.
In Orissa, the Archeans which constitute
Sand stone:- about two-third of the landmass of the state host
Sand stone has been used in construction, a variety of dimension stones like Granite,
rough slabs, tiles etc. The cementing material of Khondalite etc. In particular, the following
these sedimentary rocks determines the degree geological terrains are important.
of compaction, colour and thus ultimately the a) Chhotnagpur -Singhbhum- Bonai :- Granites
quality of these stones as dimension stones. The and gneisses of many types, dolerite, anorthosite,
Vindhyan formations constitute an excellent
gabbro etc.
storehouse of this category.
b) Eastern Ghats-Charnockite, khondalite,
Lime stone :
leptynite, anorthosite, pyroxene granulite,
The limestones, generally used as dimension nepheline, syenite etc. (Sarangi, 1998).
stones, comprise dolomitic limestone which are
TIN ORE
usually hard, argillaceous and siliceous in nature.
The state of Orissa, though a potential store house Introduction :-
of limestone has yet no record of utilization of this Tin is the major ingredient of solder and
material as dimension stone. tinplate. Generally it is not used in its pure form.
Slate : Mostly it is used as either alloyed with another
The metamorphism of shales under metal or coated upon another metal. Cassiterite
pressure produce slates, which are characterized (SnO2) is the only mineral of commercial
by presence of close set planes along which they importance as a source of tin, which contain
can be easily split into sheets. 78.6% of tin and 21.4% of oxygen. Usually it is
dark brown or black in colour with an adamantine
Laterite :
luster. Cassiterite is a high temperature product
It is a porous, pitted and clay like rock with of magmatic crystallization. It has a specific gravity
a hard limonitic protective crust containing a large of 7. The most of the World's tin is produced
quantity of iron in form of red and yellow ochre. from placer deposits and richest placers are found
In Orissa, these are used for building purpose as in stream deposits. In India tin occurrences are
substitute of bricks in the districts of Cuttack, confined to Bastar region of Chhattisgarh State
Nayagarh, Khurda, Puri and Ganjam. and Malkangiri District of Orissa.
7
Occurrences :- 1. Eastern Ghats Granulite belt.

a) Malkangiri District is the main source/ 2. High grade supra-crustal rocks.
reservoir of tin ore in Orissa. Occurrence of tin 3. Mafic and ultramafic complexes.
(Cassiterites) was first located is Mundaguda-
Salimi area of Malkangiri District by the State 4. Alkali syenite.
Directorate of Mining and Geology during 1974. 5. Quaternary sediments and gravel beds.
The area surrounded by Bhimsen River in the west,
Sarangpalli village in the east, Kolab river flowing The gemstones and their associated rocks
westwards in the south, Lokti and Tulsidongar in and the location in the state are presented in the
the north. Tables 3, 4 (Mishra and Mohanty, 1998).
b) Confluence of Ong and Mahanadi :- LIMESTONE AND DOLOMITE

Pegmatites and vein quartz emplaced in granitoid Introduction :-
foliation contain tin values of up to 0.5%.
Limestone is a calcareous sedimentary
c) Confluence of Tel and Mahanadi :-Pegmatites rock composed of mineral calcite (CaCo3), which
within the granite have gemstones along with tin, on calcination yields lime (CaO) for a wide range
tungsten in dispersed manner . of industrial uses. In its purest form, limestone
d) The area in between Amuda and Manmunda; should contain 56% CaO and 44% CO2.
Bamunda and Karunapalli of Boudh District are Dolomite is a double carbonate of calcium
also bearing the pegmatites which contain tin (Sn) and magnesium containing 30.4% CaO, 21.7%
along with Nb, Ta and W (Mohapatra and Mishra, MgO & 47.9% CO2 in its purest form. Both
1998). limestone and dolomite also contain silica, alumina,
GEM STONES iron oxides, alkalies, Phosphorous, Sulphur etc.
Introduction :- Occurrence :-
The stones having the qualities like natural Orissa has vast resources of limestone
origin, beauty, durability, uniqueness, rarity, occurring in three distinct geological settings,
hardness and chemical resistance are namely Gangpur group, Vindhya and Eastern
characterised as gemstones. Diamond because Ghats, where as dolomite is mostly confined to
of high value is treated as an exclusive species of Gangpur and Vindhyan Groups. These deposits
gemstone. The gemstones whose occurrence have are confined to following districts.
been recorded in Orissa include emerald, District Areas
aquamarine, heliodor, chrysoberyl, alexandrite,
tourmaline, ruby, sapphire, cat's eye, zircon, topaz, Sundargarh Biramitrapur, Lanjiberna, Hatibari,
moonstone, quartz, garnet etc. Properties and Purnapani, Gatitangar, Gomardih.
characteristics of few common gemstones are Bargad Dungri, Banjipali, Jampali.
given in Table 2.
Koraput Umpavalli, Tummiguda (Sunki
Occurrence :- valley).
The gemstone occurrences of Orissa are Malkangiri Kottameta, Nandiveda, Uskalvagu
localised in (Rath and Rath, 1998).
8
GOLD Kyanite, Sillimanite & Andalusite :-

Introduction and Probable Occurrence:- Introduction: These are anhydrous aluminum
Based on the existing concepts of space- silicate minerals. This group of minerals is believed
time relationship of various gold deposits all over to be products of anhydrous metamorphism of
the globe and more importantly on empirical argillaceous sedimentary rocks.
geological criteria such as rock association, age, Occurrences: Refractory grade kyanite confined
tectonic setting, depositional environment, to Panijia in Mayurbhanj District. Occurrence of
geochemical association and abundances, the quartz bearing kyanite are confined to
principal terrains for identification and delineation Magarmuhan, Torodanali, Jhilli, Golagadia,
of gold targets are: Paliahara, Kamakhyanagar of Angul & Dhenkanal
1.Badampahar -Gorumahisani belt. 2. Tomka- districts.
Daitari to further north-west upto south of Jamda-
Soap Stone, Steatite and Talc :-
Koira valley, 3. Possible Archean greenstone in
Bonai craton, 4. Bengpal Group, granitoids and Introduction: These are soft hydrous magnesium
the contact zone with Eastern Ghat granulite, and silicate with chemical composition 3MgO4 SiO2
5. Early Proterozoic successions of Gangpur / H2O.
Singhbhum Group and basal Dhanjori
Occurrence :-These deposits are confined to
(Mukherjee, 1998).
Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Ganjam &
OTHER MINERALS Dhenkanal districts. Mayurbhanj district is
The other minerals and ores which occur contributing about 95% of the total production.
in the state and some of which are being mined Quartz & Quartzite
include pyrophyllite, quartz, quartzite, kyanite and
steatite etc. Introduction: The use of quartz and quartzite
depend upon its silica content. Quartzite and
Pyrophyllite quartz are used in the manufacture of silicon
Introduction :- refractories, as a flux in iron and steel and ferroalloy
It is a hydrous aluminium silicate used industries, abrasive industry and also for
mainly in refractories making. Pyrophyllite occurs manufacture of silicon alloys, glass and sodium
in the form of quartz-pyrophyllite schist associated silicate.
with granite and also quartz reef. Occurrences:-Generally these are found in
Occurrences :- almost all the districts of the state except in the
coastal planes (Mohanty, 1998).
The occurrences of the state are associated
with Singhbhum-Bonai granite. The major Conclusion:
deposits are Anjor, Balabhadrapur, Nitigotha, Now we doubt that the continuing
Madrangajodi, Roduan, Rampakot, Dalimpur of degradation of the natural environment by
Keonjhar District. Joshipur and Manada of exploring above- mentioned minerals poses one
Mayurbhanj and Lahunipada in Sundargarh
of the greatest challenges to modem societies. In
District.
particular all mining activities create a burden on
9
the environment although paradoxically at the same commence with exploration activities, extend
time the revenues gained from these activities through extraction and processing of minerals, and
create the basis for our well-being. Major may continue post- closure of the operation. The
problems include global warming, loss of social and environmental issues associated with
biodiversity, water and air pollution, releases of mining and mineral processing operations are both
persistent organic pollutants and other toxic highly significant and complex to manage. The
substances and land degradation. There is an fixed location of the mineralized zone of interest
intimate relationship between mine workers and imposes constraints on all aspects of mining
people of near by surroundings and the potential developments including the method of mining,
exposure to toxic substances, pollutants and location of mine facilities, requirements for new
wastes. Air pollution, surface water pollution,
infrastructure and services and the suitability of
ground water contamination, devegetation and
waste management or disposal methods. This in
defacing of landscape, subsidence of land,
turn profoundly influences the environmental,
occupational health hazards etc. are the major
social and health impacts of mining developments,
impact of mining leading to various environmental
as well as the economic viability of developing a
damages. Mining operations may be categorized
as either surface or underground. Surface mining given mineralized zone. The challenges with
may be broadly defined to encompass open pit, Environment Assessment of mining projects are
open cast, quarry, strip, dredging and placer twofold--- firstly, to ensure that environmental,
(hydraulic) mining. Underground methods include social and health costs are afforded adequate
pillar-and-stope, shrinkage stope, block caving consideration in determining the economic viability
and longwall mining. Most mining operations and acceptability of the project; and secondly to
(whether surface or underground) share a number ensure that adequate mitigation or protection
of common stages or activities, each of which have measures are incorporated into project design.
potentially adverse impacts on the natural This requires both effective environmental
environment, social and cultural conditions, or the legislations and enforcement by regulatory
health and safety of mine workers. institutions, and sound environmental management
Expansion within the mining and practices by private and public sector mine
metallurgical sector leads to the development and operators. In order to minimize the adverse
economic growth of our country. The products impacts of mining it is desirable to adopt eco-
of the sector (including metallic and non-metallic friendly mining technology. Restoration of mined
minerals, construction materials) are not only areas by re-vegetating them with appropriate
essential for construction activities and many plant species, stabilization of the mined lands,
industrial processes, but are also often a valuable gradual restoration of flora, prevention of toxic
source of foreign exchange earnings. However, drainage discharge and conforming to the
mining operations frequently involve a high degree standards of the air emissions are essential for
of environmental disturbance, which can extend minimizing environmental impacts of mining in such
well beyond the extent of mineralized areas. The a state like Orissa having enormous mineral
environmental impacts of a mining operation potential.
10
Table 1 :Specification of Beach Sand Minerals and their application (Siddiqui, 1998)
Mineral Chemical composition Specific Major applications
gravity
llmenite FeO.TiO2 4.67 Manufacture of titanium dioxide, production of
synthetic rutile and Ferro-titanium alloys.
Rutile TiO2 4.1 Coating of welding electrodes, titanium dioxide
pigment, production of titanium sponge and metal.
Zircon ZrO2SiO2 4.68 Foundries, ceramics and refract ories,
manufacture of Zirconium metals and chemicals.
Sillimanite Al2O3SiO2 3.24 Manufacture of high temperature refractories.
Garnet 3RO.R2O3.3SiO2 4.68 Manufacture of abrasives, for polishing glass/
T.V tubes, wood for sand blasting and water
filtration.
Monazite Phosphate of the Rare 5.10 Production of rare earth compounds, Thorium,
Earths with variable Uranium, Helium etc.
amounts of thorium.
Table 2 : Properties and characteristics of some common gemstones
Name Composition Colour Moh's Specific Refractive
hardness gravity Index (RI)
Quartz
Amethyst Silica Purple 7.0 2.65 1.56
Beryl
Aquamarine Beryllium, Blue green to light blue 7.5-8.0 2.63-3.80 1.58
Aluminium,
silicate
Emerald -do- Green 7.5 2.63-3.80 1.58
Heliodor -do- Yellowish green 7.5 2.63-3.80 1.58
Corundum
Ruby Aluminium Rose to deep 9.0 3.95-4.10 1.78
oxide purplish red
Sapphire -do- Blue, Light Yellow 9.0 3.95-4.10 1.78
Diamond Carbon white, blue, white, pink 10.0 3.5 2.42
yellow, brown, green
11
Iolite Al, Mg silicate Gray, light or dark blue, 7-7.5 2.53-2.65 2.54
with Iron violet
Chrysoberyl
Alexandrite Beryllium Green by day and 8.5 3.5-3.84 1.75
aluminates red by artificial light
Cat's eye -do- Greenish to brownish 8.5 3.5-3.84 1.75
Feldspar
Moonstone Alkali White 6.0-6.5 2.77 1.52-l.54
aluminium silicate
Garnet Complex silicate Brown, black, yellow, 6.5-7.5 3.15-4.30 1.79-1.98
green, ruby red, orange
Topaz -do- White, blue, green 8.0 3.4-3.6 1.62
Tourmaline -do- All including mixed 7.0-7.5 2.98-3.20 1.63
Zircon Zirconium silicate White, blue, brown, 6.0-7.5 4.0-4.8 1.79-l.98
yellow, green
Table 3 : Gemstone and their associated rock (Mishra and Mohanty, 1998)
Name of the Gem Stone Host Rocks
1. Ruby and sapphire. a. Contact of pegmatite and ultramafic rocks.
b. High grade pelitic (kyanite-sillimanite) schists

c. Nepheline syenite
d.Cordierite-sillimanite-garnet schists and Para

gneisses.
2. Emerald and Aquamarine. Contact of beryl bearing pegmatite with ultramafic rocks.
3. Alexandrite and Chrysoberyl cat's eye. Pegmatites in Khondalite suite of rocks.
4. Rhodolite, almandine and uvarovite High-grade pelitic schists.

garnets; fibrolite cat's eye iolite.
5. Amethyst, topaz, aquamarine, heliodor, Pegmatite.

tounnaline, moonstone, labradorite,
microcline.
12
Table 4: Gemstones and their district wise location in Orissa, India

Location Gem stone
Angul District
Magarmuhan - Jhilli Nuagan Quartz, Garnet
Sambalpur District
Chabhati-Beldihi Aquamarine, heliodor
Bagdhapa- Tabloi Aquamarine, garnets
Meghpal-Ranchipada Garnet, green tourmaline, aquamarine
Deogarh District Hessonite
Jharsuguda District Green tourmaline
Bolangir District
Ghuchepali-Antarla Emerald, topaz, heliodor and aquamarine
Ghumsar-Dehli Chrysoberyl and Cat's eye
Muribahal- Tentelkhunti Orange, brown and yellow colour zircons, topaz and amethyst
Saraibahal-Suklimuri Green beryl, aquamarine, heliodor and amethyst.
Naktamunda-Siali Rhodolite garnets.
Subarnapur District
Badmal-Mursundi Greenish blue to sea blue aquamarine.
Binika-Sonepur Garnets, topaz, Cat's eye.
Boudh District
Boudh-Ramgarh Cat's eye, topaz, zircon, moonstone, agate, diamond.
Kantamal-Manmunda Garnets, topaz, iolite, tourmaline and diamond.
Kalahandi District
Jillingdhar-Hinjlibahal Ruby.
Orhabahala-Urharanga Iolite.
Ghatpara-Singiharan Hessonite garnet and zircon.
Sirjapali-Tundla Cat's eye.
Banjipadar-Sargiguda Blue opaque corundum, apatite, aquamarine.
Nawapada District
Sardhapur-Patialpada Blue iolite and fibrolite.
Katamal-Babebir-Amera Yellow sapphire.
Damjhar-Burhapara-Mantritarai Almandine garnets, iolite.
Rayagada District
Paikdakulguda-Hatamuniguda Cat's eye.
Irkubadi-Tarhama Sillimanite Cat's eye.
Karlaghati-Karanjgurha Chrysoberyl.
Phulbani District
Bargochha Tourmaline.
Belghar Cat's eye.
13
References: Nanda A K and Bhol B B1998. Fireclay. In, B.K.

Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral
Das J N and Mohanty R C 1998. Bauxite. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Mohanty (Ed) Geology and Mineral Resources and Allied Technologist, 214-219.
of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists and Allied
Technologist, 121-140. Nayak J C and Das J N 1998. Vanadium Ore. In, B.K.
Mohanty (Ed} Geology and Mineral Resources
Manjrekar V D, Chaudhury V and Gautam KVVS 1998. of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists and Allied
Coal. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Geology and Technologist, 357-368.
Mineral Resources of Orissa. Society of
Geoscientists and Allied Technologist, 179-203. Pattanaik S C, Ghosh S P and Das G 1998. Base Metals.
In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)~ Geology and Mineral
Mishra B P and Mohanty B K1998. Gemstones. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral and Allied Technologist, 113~120.
Rath B D and Rath R N1998. Limestone and Dolomite.
In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Geology and Mineral
Mishra R N and Padhi R N 1998. Graphite. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Sahoo R K 1998. Chromite. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)-
Mohanty B K 1998. Iron Ore. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Society of Geoscien tists and Allied
Sahoo R K 1998. Nickel Ore. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)-
Mohanty B K 1998. China Clay. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Society of Geoscien tists and Allied
Society of Geoscien tists and Allied Sarangi S K 1998. Dimension and Decorative Stones.
Mohanty B K1998. Other Minerals. In, B.K. Mohanty Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
(Ed)- Geology and Mineral Resources of Orissa. and Allied Technologist, 204-213.
Society of Geoscien tists and Allied Sarangi S K and Mohanty B K 1998. Manganese Ore.
Mohapatra K S and Mishra R N. 1998. Tin Ore. In, B.K. Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Resources ofOrissa. Society of Geoscientists Siddiqui A S 1998. Beach Sand Minerals. In, B.K.
and Allied Technologist, 347-356. Mohan ty (Ed)- Geology an d Min eral
Mukherjee M M 1998. Gold. In, B.K. Mohanty (Ed)- Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists
Geology and Mineral Resources of Orissa. and Allied Technologist, 141-147.
Mukherjee M M 1998. Platinum Group Elements. In,
B.K. Mohanty (Ed) Geology and Mineral Rakesh Kumar Satapathy and Shreerup Goswami are
Resources of Orissa. Society of Geoscientists working in the P.G. Department of Environrnental
and Allied Technologist, 339-346. Science, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore.
14
Reminiscences
An Encounter with Flood of 1980

Gopinath Mohanty
It was raining cats and dogs for several days. In area and inflicted crop loss valued at Rs.21,000
that evening we were holding a farewell feast in million. Out of 3,820 Gram Panchayats covering
Cuttack Tahsil Office in honour of Sri J.A.Khan, 50,854 villages in all the 13 districts of the State,
ex-Tahasildar, Cuttack. Sri Arakhit Mallick, as many as 26,239 villages under 2,609 Gram
OAS(I), the then ADM of undivided Cuttack Panchayats have suffered crop loss exceeding 50
district and Sri Goura Govind Das, SDO, Cuttack percent and were declared as drought affected
Sadar were also among the invitees. The ADM area. A comprehensive drought relief programme
wanted to know if I had been drafted for flood has been taken up and it is still in operation. Now
duty. I said Yes but further added that I was not when the state is just in the process of recovering
in a position to move outside Cuttack due to my from the serious losses caused by the drought
pressing personal circumstances; as my wife was situation, Nature s Fury in shape of flood has
in an advanced stage of pregnancy at that time. I struck again.
had been transferred from Salepur Tahasil a
It came with the heavy rains in Madhya
fortnight back to join as Additional Land
Acquisition Officer in Cuttack Collectorate. I had Pradesh and the upper part of Hirakud reservoir.
shifted my family from Salepur and we were The first phase of flood occurred in the Mahanadi
staying in my in-law s house in the Cuttack town. system following heavy rains in the upper and
lower catchment areas of the river Mahanadi from
I was sad about this flood. My poor state 9th September 1980 causing breaches in the
Orissa has no respite from the ravages of natural embankments of the Luna and Rajua, the branches
calamities during the past decades. The economy of the River Mahanadi, it inundated low-lying
of the State has been caught in a vicious cycle of areas in Puri and Cuttack districts.
cyclone, drought, flood and tornado, visiting this
unfortunate land one after another almost every The situation worsened further by the
year as a matter of routine. The development of second phase of the flood which commenced with
the State has been severely retarded on account the depression in the Bay of Bengal on the 16th
of these natural calamities, which have been September. The cyclonic storm crossed the
inflicting heavy tolls of precious lives and property coastline of Orissa between Puri and Chhatrapur
time and again. Only a year back i.e., during and proceeded along the basin of Rusikulya and
1979-80 the state has faced an acute drought Vansadhara and reached the Mahanadi catchment
situation that affected more than half of its total area by the 17th September. The frightening
15
feature of this depression was that it intensified became alarming for the people of Cuttack town
aft er entering the landmass effecting who could not sleep in that dreadful night. They
extraordinarily heavy rains in the districts of were moving in groups. Local volunteers were
Ganjam, Koraput, Phulbani and Balangir and the assisting the district administration to stop seepage
areas around Raipur in Madhya Pradesh (present of water through river embankment constructed
Chhattisgarh). It led to unprecedented flood never by Markat Keshari at the behest of legendary
witnessed before in the river Vansadhara from the Baimundi, an illiterate farmer having profound
16th to the 18th of September and further foresight; that was more than 500 years back.
aggravated the flood situation in the Mahanadi
system from the 19th to the 24th September, I was one among them. I had been moving
1980. with Collector and SDO during the whole night.
Sri P.K. Hota, IAS was the Collector. He was
The cyclonic storm of the 16th September
young and dynamic. He was on his toes
that brought about heavy down pours both in the
throughout the night, monitoring the efforts made
upper and lower catchments of Hirakud reservoir
by the Engineering Department and the local
caused the level of the reservoir to rise rapidly
thereby substantially increasing the outflow. This residents. There was general euphoria of
led to unusually high flood in almost all the togetherness and community s involvement. I felt,
branches of river Mahanadi in the districts of if such sentiment had not have surfaced, there
Cuttack and Puri. The protective river would have been several breaches in the
embankments were breached at several places embankments wrecking havoc in Cuttack town.
submerging vast areas of cropped land and Thank God ! Cuttack town could be saved, but
marooning a large number of villages. The heavy there were several breaches in Jagatsinghpur sub-
rains also caused rivers and hill-streams in the division. As a result the floodwater started
districts of Kalahandi, Balangir, Balasore, receding near Cuttack town. The first breach
Phulbani, Sambalpur and Dhenkanal to rise very occurred at about 2 A.M. in the night.
high and wreck havoc in many areas in these
I came back to my house at about 4 A.M.
districts.
and took rest. The next day I went to the
Government had warned about the Collectorate by about 9 A.M. and found the
expected flood. The news was broadcasted Emergency Officer on his chair. The Collector was
through AIR and the district administration had also in his chamber. I sneaked into his room to
made all prior arrangements to meet the challenge. know what was going on. He was alone and
district-level officers had been drafted for looking at some papers. When I entered into his
deployment in strategic locations to meet the room he looked at me, thought for a moment and
eventualities prior to the incidence of flood. Every asked very courteously, if I could help him a little
one was apprehensive about the impending because, he was aware of my personal problem
danger.
and had been kind enough to exempt me from
Rains continued for over a week. Towards flood duty. I answered, Yes Sir . Then he said,
the evening of that fateful day its intensity was Army has already moved to Jagatsinghpur last
abated, but floodwaters came rushing in the night for undertaking relief and rescue operation.
Mahanadi and the Kathajodi Rivers. The situation But they could not take a bamboo truck with them.
16
You can go to them in a jeep along-with the a message that about one hundred fifty flood
bamboo truck and then come back to Cuttack. affected persons who were taking shelter in a
nearby telephone exchange in Mandasahi, a G.P.
Carrying out the order, I proceeded to
headquarters, have been washed away. If this
Jagatsinghpur and reached the SDO s Office at
news is found to be true, then we will not spare
11.30 A.M. Sri B.K. Das, SDO was well known
anybody . Then he struck his lathi on the floor
to me. Recently we were working in the same
with force.
station, Salipur where he was holding the post of
Consolidation Officer. After being promoted to Though SDO answered coolly that he
Junior Class (I) rank, he came to Jagatsinghpur would look into the matter it could not pacify the
as the SDO about two months back. He was crowd. There erupted a mass yelling. The
gem of a person, soft spoken and a fine gentleman. atmosphere was charged with tension and I
He was affectionate enough to treat me as his thought there could be a clash between the
younger brother and I had reciprocated by paying administration and the irate mob at any time.
him due respect. I was delighted to meet him and The SDO was desperate and helpless. I
let him know that I had come with the bamboo took a quick decision to come to his rescue. I
truck. had to act fast to handle the situation tactfully. I
I opened the door of his office chamber. immediately ventured to go to the backside of
He was sitting facing the door. He saw me and the SDO, lifted the telephone receiver and asked
smiled briefly. He was happy and welcoming me the exchange to connect me to Mandasahi
in his usual way. But he was not alone. The room telephone exchange. The operator tried but
was overcrowded with people; about twentyfive informed me after some time that there was no
of them, demanding for immediate rescue and response. I insisted that he should keep on trying
relief measures in the flood hit areas. More and till it was answered. Thank God, there came an
more people were coming in and no body was answer after a long gap. A feeble sound informed
leaving. The atmosphere was tense and noisy. that the ground floor of the telephone exchange
Every body was presenting his case forcefully, building had already been flooded. There was
and the SDO was listening patiently. He was at knee-deep water on the first floor, but every body
his wits end. was safe and he implored for rescuing them.
Cutting across the commotion I made my This SOS massage dampened the tension
way to him and informed him about the purpose inside the room and everybody looked at me with
of my visit. When I sought his permision to return, interest. This pushed me to the center stage where
he requested me to stay with him for some time. I I found myself acting and taking decisions in
could not leave this gentleman alone in this tense consultation with the SDO. The most important
situation that was going down from bad to worse decision was to go for rescue operation alongwith
with every passing moment. There was never the army who were sitting there idle since the last
ending flow of demanding visitors to his chamber. night. No order was communicated to them to
After sometime an angry man called Gunduri move anywhere.
appeared in the scene. He was middle-aged, There were several breaches at different
wearing a khaki half pant and holding a short lathi points and vast areas were inundated. The first
in his hand. He started shouting Sir, we have got breach that caused widespread havoc was near
17
Mandasahi. Local leaders were pressing hard for night time. Army men wanted to bring back their
deployment of army in their respective areas. boats, and I prevailed over them to keep those
But I decided that the army boat would go boats there as we were scheduled to start the
to the worst hit Mandasahi for rescue operation. rescue operation from early morning on the day
I would be supervising it. We were ready by 4 following.
PM. to start the rescue operation. All of us returned to our camp at about 8
When I came out and met the army people, P.M. I found the SDO still glued to his chair,
I found them hungry. They had not taken breakfast discussing with people. Then I came to the
or lunch, because nothing was practically available Inspection Bunglow and found Sri M.M.
in the local market. I managed to buy some bread Mohanty, OAS (I), ADM, Cuttack who was
and banana. On the way to the breach site we getting ready to return to Cuttack. He was
took bread and banana. We had to cover about camping there since the previous night to help the
15 km. to reach the site. I was stupefied when I SDO. He was going to apprise about the exact
saw the vast areas under inundation on one side situation to the Collector. After getting refreshed
of the river embankment and on the other side, I saw the SDO in his office and with his permission
vast stretches of green paddy fields. The army left for Cuttack by 9 P.M.
men jumped into action. Pulling out their boats I reached the Cuttack Collectorate around
from trucks they rushed to rescue villagers who 11 P.M. and found the Collector personally
had taken shelter on rooftops, trees or nearby counting the rice bags stocked in the Collectorate.
hillocks. Seeing me, he collected all information about
It was a moving sight. Many people were Jagatsingpur. At the same time, he asked me, how
there on the river embankment. Several families things could be made better there. I answered;
had come there previous night after getting warning Sir, Sri Das is a very good officer, but since he is
about the flood. Interestingly, we were not first to new to the sub-division, it would be better, if some
reach the marooned people. Relief workers from old officers who had the experience of working
a daily news paper were already there with relief in the subdivision could be sent there to help Sri
materials. Some of them had started rescuing the Das. I also suggested two names i.e. Sri K.C.
marooned people. A young lady in her early Patnaik OAS (I), working as Secretary, Greater
twenties came and implored me to send the army Cuttack Improvement Trust and Sri Chaitanya
boat to rescue her father who after leading his Prusty, working as Under Secretary at
family to the safety on the embankment had Bhubaneswar.
returned to his house to fetch some food materials. He thought over it and then rang up his
He could not come back as by that time water house to say that it would not be possible on his
level had increased. Nothing could be done. The part to come for the dinner. He politely told me
whole area was submerged. There was no visible to go home for dinner, and asked if I could be
sign of the man or his village. available to accompany him to Jagatsinghpur that
The dusk came followed by darkness. The night. I agreed and than came to my in-law s house
unfortunate survivors were struggling to keep their for dinner.
body and soul together inside the marooned area. When I returned at about 12 P.M., I found
It was not possible to continue the operation in the Collector sitting for his dinner there in the
18
Collectorate. In his company were Sri K.C. and requested me to stay back for some days to
Patnaik and Sri P.K. Senapati, IPS, the then SP, help the SDO. I then learnt that Sri K.C.Patnaik
Cuttack. We left the Collectorate at about 1 A.M. already had one stroke then and there. He too
in the night and halted in Nayabazar. There the asked the SDO to manage the crisis with courage
District Civil Supply Officer. Sri Ashutosh Das and dedication. He further added. I am leaving
was supervising loading of relief rice on the trucks. Gopi to assist you. Whatever he says, you just
After the loading was completed we left okay it and everything will be fine, That night I
Nayabazar at about 2.30 A.M. in the night along had to return to Cuttack to fetch my luggage.
with seven truckloads of rice. We reached Next day I reached Jagatsinghpur by 10
Jagatsinghpur SDO Office at about 4.30 A.M. in A.M. I picked up the command of relief and
the morning. rescue operations with the SDO in my side. I
We were ready by 6.30 A.M. Late systematically arranged shift duty and introduced
Basudev Mohapatra, the then Minister of the feed back system. Since the calamity was
Agriculture, who represented the Balikuda widespread and devastating, the State
Assembly Constituency arrived there by 7.00 Government acting upon Collecto r s
A.M. in the morning. We started distributing relief. recommendation deployed senior officers in the
rank of Jr. Class-1 and Sr. Class-1 to take charge
The matter went off smoothly. Suddenly of different Block areas. One Sr. Class-1 officer
some message was received about another was in charge of Biridi block. Sri K.K. Patnaik,
imminent breach at some point of the embankment, Ex-SDO, Jagatsinghpur and Under Secretary of
as there was seepage. Since no local officer was a Department was in charge of Balikuda block.
available I was asked to proceed to the site, Three senior officers were kept in charge of three
arrange sand bags to stop seepage. With the help worst affected blocks and all of them were
of Executive Engineer. Irrigation and I left by reporting to the SDO. I was coordinating their
11.30 A.M. Reaching the spot I did whatever I activities and handling their affairs creditably.
could. Then I went to Machhagaon to see the
conditions there. I was appalled to see the low Collector came again on regular visit after
lying land area inundated. The scene was 3/4 days, went to the affected pockets in a
awesome. It looked like a sea. I found a Revenue motorcycle, assessed the magnitude of loss,
Rest shed there, went into it, brushed my teeth, reviewed the relief operation and expressed his
took my bath and came out by 3.30 P.M. As satisfaction.
there was nothing to do, I came back to After about 4/5 days I went around the
Jagatsinghpur. Reaching there by 5 P.M., I found worst affected pockets in the company of a
Collector and other officers taking their lunch in photographer to take photographs of devastation
the Revenue I.B. I was hungry too, for going caused by the hungry flood. The picture was
without food since morning. I sat down for lunch gloomier than what the media could capture. With
soon after they had finished their's. scores of reporters hunting out every possible
news story the disaster turned more into a media
In the evening Collector was busy in giving
event than a real human tragedy.
his last instructions, because tomorrow he would
be going to Kendrapara, which was also badly This super flood of 1980 had badly affected
affected by the flood. He called me by 8 P.M. a population of 2.9 million in 10 out of the 13
19
districts of the State. It inflicted heavy casualities. by 11.30 P.M. My wife had already been admitted
As per the official estimates, 82 precious human to SCB Medical College Hospital for delivery. I
lives and 10,160 livestocks costing Rs 19.00 lakhs rushed to the hospital cabin allotted to my wife.
were lost, 130,981 dwelling houses costing But by the time she had been taken to the labour
Rs.9.05 crores were damaged, 6,865 hectares room. I felt tired and exhausted. Hard work and
of fertile farmland were sand-casted and valuable sleepless night had strain on me. It had gone
public infrastructure worth of about Rs. 65.23 beyond my endurance. I felt tired and exhausted.
crores was damaged. It was a nightmare. I felt, I could take it no more. I badly needed
some rest for atleast a few minutes before going
On the seventh day of the outbreak of the
to the labour room to see her. She was also
flood, the Central Team visited the flood-hit areas.
expecting me till the last moment. I could not just
They first came to Kendrapara Sub-division and
make it. I thought I could rest for a while in her
Jagatsinghpur came next in their itinerary. They
bed in the hospital cabin, but immediately fell fast
arrived at my station just before the evening of
asleep. No body also disturbed me. When I woke
10.10.1980. No body was expecting them at that up at about 2 A.M. in the night, I saw smiling
time but I had anticipated that it might happen. I faces around me. Then came the good news; I
was ready with a big and powerful flashlight. It was blessed with another son. It was God s gift.
was dark all around when the Central Team visited Parhaps he has rewarded me for my hard work
the spot. They were satisfied with what we did and selfless service for the suffering millions, I
for bringing rescue and relief to the needy, battling thought. I thanked God for his Kindness.
nightmarish logistical obstacles. They left the Sub-
divisional Headquarters about 8 P.M. in the Afterwards my wife always chided me that
evening. I did not bother for her in her critical moment.
She alleged that I took my profession as my first
Soon after the Team s departure Collector wife putting her in the second position.
called the SDO and me. He told the SDO, Mr.
Das, You are back to your chair. He profusely It was a moment of reckoning. Stray
thanked me for effective monitoring and thoughts crossed my mind. I knew, I was novice
management of the crisis and further told me."Now in the art of administration with only five years
you can go and join your family . experience to my credit at that time. But by God s
grace I found myself daring and taking prompt
I was staying there in the house of Sri decisions in the moment of crisis and this was
Jitendra Mohanty, my frriend who was working useful to me to handle the complex problem even
as the Sub-Registar of Salipur. His wife was a though I was a stranger not only to the area but
lecturer in the Jagatsinghpur College. They were also to the people of Jagatsingpur. Perhaps my
happy to accommodate me in their house. I was stranger value helped me to take impartial
practically working for more then 16 to 17 hours decisions against so many odds and particularly
daily. Sri Das, the SDO was also working with in dealing with the clamouring crowds shouting
little food and rest. I was told later that he suffered and demanding action in their favour. I was
for more than three months after flood operations determined to do all I could to manage the disaster
were over. and tide over the crisis.
I immediately came to my friend s house, Later, when I came across Mr. Hota, the
picked up my luggage and returned to Cuttack then Collector, he remembered those fateful days
20
and recounted the reminiscences. I had seen him Disasters can rip away social moorings and
moving in the flood affected villages by moter bike worsen the prospects of a society s existence. It
when roads were damaged, telephone lines cut may act as a unifying force if the right amount of
off and communication channels blocked making goodwill exists.
the relief works a Herculean task. His quick Those days have remained fresh in my
decisions in this emergency situation could save sweet memories. We the government officers live
many precious lives and property. He is endowed with the memories of such small achievements.
with the gift of taking right decisions at the right But it may look remarkeble when viewed in the
moment. I know it was his dynamism that inspired context of saving human life and wealth against
me to jump into the eye of the storm and come heavy odds. Yet, looking beyond the immediate
out with flying colours. occurrence, there are some crucial lessons to be
For me it was a mission accomplished. But learnt.
it was not the end of the road. The disaster had
left a trail of devastation. After the immediate task
of rescue and relief there would come the difficult
phase of rehabiliation and reconstruction in order
to enable the affected people to pick up threads
of life afresh. They were to be brought back to
Gopin ath Mohan ty lives at 4R-2/1, Unit-III,
their routine of old familiar life. Bhubaneswar.
A luxury bus VALVO of OSTRC has started its service from Bhubaneswar to
Rourkela on 28-4-2006.
21
Glimpses of Performing Art Heritage in

Orissan Inscriptions
Dr. D.B.Mishra
The reference of "Performing Art" heritage in the (assigned to 1st Century B.C.) refers to the
vast corpus of earlier Orissan inscriptions, except arrangement of festivals (usava) and social
the Hatigumpha inscription of Kharavela (1st congregations (samaja) along with performances
Century B.C.), is almost absent. However, the of acrobatism (dapa), dance (nata) as well as
Hatigumpha inscript ion vocal (gita) and instrumental
provides us with a fairly good (vadita) in the capital city
idea about the practice, nature (Nagari) in third regnal year
and development of music, by the Emperor Kharavels,
dance and dramaturgy. No who himself was well-versed
other record of Orissa in the art of music (Gandhava-
thereafter till the advent of the Veda-Budha). The capital city
Somavamsis in mid-9th was described as playing, as it
Century A.D. makes even were, with the performances.
astray allusion to it. It were the The reference of the patronage
inscriptions of the Imperial of the Emperor and its
Gangas to a great extent and popularity among people is
those of the Gajapatis to a amply corroborated by three
reasonable extent shed contemporary panels of
welcome light on t he dance-scences of Khandagiri-
advancement of the art. In fact, Udayagiri. The most enjoyable
the inscriptions of the imperial of them is the one in the lower
Ganga and Gajapati kings storey of Ranigumpha in which
(circa 11th-16th century AD.) contain profuse the danceuse expresses the purport of the song
references to various strands of the art which if by a posture (mudra) with her right hand while
interpreted and dealt with in an in-depth manner, stretching her left hand which is adorned with
with the support of plastic art and literature, may armlets and bracelets. She has bent her right leg
bring out the attainment of our ancestors in that in a pose in which the fingers of the feet touch the
regard by tracing the evolution down the ages. ground. The beatific smile on her lips and the
The Hatigumpha inscription.1 One of the jubilantly expressive eyes, the two strands of hair-
earliest lithic records of early Christian time plaits on the sides of her back, the rhythmic ups
22
and downs of the necklace and the anklets on the arts since very early times anterior to
legs lend a rare glamour to her deportment and Kharavela'reign. It may be pointed out in the
performance. She is accompanied by four female context that we have come across four types of
figures- one playing on the flute (venu), another musical instruments, viz.,Tata-Vadya (many
on a many stringed harp, the third a mrdanga stringed harp, harp played by plectrum and lute),
and fourth a dhakka. The stage performance is, Vitata-Vadya (mridanga, dhakka), Sisira-Vadya
in deed, a unique piece of performing art. It was (venu or flute) and Ghana-Vadya (cymbals or
said to have been performed on a stage. Manjira).Further, in the musical concerts the role
A similar scene of dance is carved in a cave of the vocalists in setting the tune of the music for
of Aurangabad (Maharastra). The daughter of Svara (musical notes), Tala (time-measure) and
Mara is found dancing in front of Buddha while pada (significant words) appears to be crucial. It
four female musicians accompany her in various may be pointed out that 'Gandharva Veda' has
musical instruments. N.K. Sahu2 been defined by Bharata Muni3
is of the view that both the art of (who has been variously assigned
Aurangabad and Khandagiri- a time between 3rd-2nd Century
Udayagiri are contemporaneous B.C. to 3rd - 2nd Century A.D.)
and that the music of Kalinga had in his Natya-Sastra, the earliest
spread to the Deccan in the reign available treatise on music and
of the Satavahanas. dramaturgy as the happy blending
of Svara, Tala and Pada. Some of
The second scene of dance,
our present critics interpret that
found in the upper storey of
Ranigumpha, with two women Gandharva did not include
dancers and three with musical dance in its fold as the latter is
instruments, is performed in an basically an imitative art in as
open-air theater, in contrast to the much as it endeavours to convey
earlier panel which exhibits a to the spectator either singly or
special stage. The fact that it has combined - form, an object, a
been witnessed by the Empress situation, a feeling or a mood
and another ro yal female contained or depicted in a song
personage, probably the guest of honour of the which it follows, or independently when dance
occasion-exhibits the love and the patronage of goes sans song. As such, it is at least party a
the Emperor for dance and music. spatial art fundamentally different from music,
The third scence of dance found in the Totua in its pure form, is an art in time.4
Gumpha (No.2 of Khandagiri) represents a man The reference of "Gandharva-Veda-budha-
playing on a vina (lute) while the girl dances to dapa-nata-gita-vadita" has many significant
the rhythm of the music with her left palm upraised connotations. First of all, as pointed by Sri D.N.
and right hand downwards in a dramatic pose. Patnaik,5
Further, the reference 'Tauryatrika' .. Odissi music, in its earliest
(Music,Dance and Drama) Hatigumpha form, was a type of music devoid of dance and
inscription speaks of the heritage of performing was conforming to the ideals laid down in the
23
Bharata Natya Sastra, in case this Sastra was They represent apparently a main current
compiled at a time earlier than the said of the traditional higher art of the aboriginal
inscription. Considering the hoary antiquity civilization of the sub-continent of India.
of the Hatigumpha inscription one may be For a long time after the Hatigumpha
tempted to think that if the Natya Sastra was inscription, there is no such specific epigraphic
compiled in the 2nd Century A.D., or still later, reference to dance and music till the time of the
as some scholars opine, the conception and Somavamsis in mid-9th century A.D. However.
definition of Gandharva was an outcome of The dance scenes of Parasuramesvar and
the observation of Odissi music prevailing Kapilesvar of 7th century A.D. clearly indicate
during Kharavela's Orissa. However, during that dance and music were popular among
the mediaeval period, particularly during the masses. In contrast to the female dancers and
rule of the Gannga kings who came to Orissa musicians of Kharavela's time, we find three male
from Southern India the music of Orissa seems figures performing dance in the upper part and
to have comprised vocal music, instrumental four males playing on musical instrument below
music and dance too. The Nata-mandapas or the panel - in both the temples. It shows that music
the dancing halls constructed in almost every and dance were gradually becoming popular
Orissa temple were meant for dance and music among males. The instruments like Venu (flute),
which used to go together in front of the temple Sringa (horn), Karatala (Cymbals) and Vudvudika
deities. were some of the popular instruments. N.K.
Many of the scholars are of the opinion that Sahu8 has observed that whereas the dance-scene
of Parasuramesvara is a folk-form that of
contribution of Orissa to the Eastern Indian music,
Kapilesvara exhibits the traits of Bharata-natyam.
which was known as "Odra-Magadhi" in Bharata's
He has identified one of the dancers as exhibiting
Natya Sastra, can not be denied. They think that
Padmakosa mudra in her right hand and Gajahasta
Odissi dance and song has been derived from it .
in the left, the second as in the posture of making
Secondly, that art as referred to in the hair-do and the third with Samdamsa mudra in
inscription and (portrayed) on the rock-shelters her right hand. Whereas in the Parasuramesvara
of Khandagiri-Udayagiri are secular6 in nature in Temple, one dancer is dancing with two pieces
contrast to those at Bharhut, Sanchi, Mathura and of scarf in his two hands, the second standing to
Bodhgaya etc. which are religious in nature. The his right has placed his left hand on the buttock
former are meant for the entertainment of the king and in his right hand he is hanging a kerchief and,
and /or the people whereas the latter-as in the the third standing to the left is taking a turn of his
case of Ajatasatru and Prasenjit pillars of Bharhut head towards the front while facing the opposite
- depicting the dances of Gandharvas and side of the audience.
Apsaras have been shown on the occasion of Contemporary Nataraja images exhibit a
worship of Buddha's relics. The spirit of dance rare aesthetic and spiritual expression, what may
and music which Kharavela instilled in the lives of be defined as Ananda Tandava mudra in the
the aboriginals became a part and parcel of their terminology of Bharata Muni. Charming
life-style, which continues as a precious artistic descriptions of public courtesans (dancing girls)
heritage even to-day among them in Orissa. H. occur in the "Mangalacharana" portion of the
Jimmerf 7 has rightly observed. Somavamsi inscriptions (Cir. A.D. 850-1100)
24
from the earliest dated record till almost the last. named Sutanu. The Ramgarh hill in Sarguja district
The Gopalpur Charter9 dated first regnal year of (Chhatisgarh) contains two caves, namely,
the founder of the dynasty, Janamejaya I Yogimara and Sita Vangira. The former was used
Mahabhavagupta, in the description of as a residence by a cave-actress (Lena Sobhika),
Suvarnapura - the capital metropolis - describes probably Sutanu where the inscription is found
the place as one "where the best of public damsels as follows:
dance rhythmically to the tune of the movement Sutanuka nama / Deva Dasi Kyi / Tam
of their "Kalasa' (small water jar with beautiful Kamayitha valuna seye/Devadine nama/
constricted neck) like breasts (Vara-Vara- Lupadakhe
Vilasini-kucha-kalasa). The description becomes
more conventional (Varnaka) from his 6th regnal It is important for the cultural history of
year (Kalibhana plates)10 onwards and, has been Kosala. However, a specific and significant
applied to other metropolises like Murasima and reference of 'Devadasi' has been made in the
Arama or Arama-Kataka as follows : Brahmesvara temple inscription13 of Kolavatidevi
in the reign of Uddyotakesari Mahabhavagupta
The jingling sound of the anklets on the (Cir.A.D. 1040 - 65). The inscriptions of
feet of the numerous charming courtesans Meghesvara and Sobhanesvara of the Ganga
frightened the flocks of pigeons (who) started reign also contain references of 'Devadasi'.
flying with their fluttering noise (which)
deafened the tenquarters (aneka-Vara-Vara- The Brahmesvara inscriptions (Verse 15)
Vilasini-Jana-charana-nupura-rava trasta- narrates :
paravata-svana-Vadhirita-dasa-diso ..) By her (Kolavati Devi) were dedicated
It appears that the victor Somavamsi kings to Lord Siva some beautiful women, whose
brought beautiful maidens as trophies of victory limbs were adorned with ornaments set in gems
from the vanquished territories and kept them in and thus appearing as the everlasting but
gem-studded mansions (amala-mani-krtrima- playful lightening, and who are restless with
sadana) for either performing art of dance and the weight of loins and breasts, and whose eyes
music or for prostitution to entertain the rich and were fickle and extended up to the ears and
the aristocratic people.11 who looked lovely like the pupils of the eyes
of men.
The institution which became famous as
"Deva-dasi"(literally maid of the god or temple) In the Ratnagiri Charte14 of Somavamsi king
in Orissa is unique in the realm of performing art. Karna (Cir. A.D. 1098-1118), a donation of land
It epitomizes of dance and music - which have was made in favour of Rani Karpurasri, the
been first alluded in 1st century B.C. and continued daughter of Mahari Mahunadevi. Mahari has been
in Orissa till almost 20th century A.D. They were interpreted a 'songstress or a dancing girl or a
a class of special maidens attached to the temple Devadasi or harlot by A.M. Shastri. It is an Oriya
for regular performance of dance in Orissan equivalent for 'Devadasi'.
temples. The first of its reference, as said earlier, There are profuse references to the
is found in the Ramgarh inscription12 of 1st century community of dancing girls of the temple-service
B.C., or A.D. which narrates the love episode of in the Imperial Ganga and Gajapati records. They
a young painter. Devadina and a 'Devadasi' were variously called Sani, Sanivaru, Sanulu,
25
Langalu, Kumari, Gudusani etc. The temples another inscription of Srikurmam refers to 30
became the nucleus for the growth of dance, song daughters of some Nayaka family dedicated to
and music. A Madhukesvara temple inscription15 the Lord.25 The Panchadharla record26 describes
of Chodagangadeva reveals that he made that the daughters of Narasimhadeva, the
arrangement for a service called 'Trikalinga Chalukya ruler of Elamanchalli, by his Bhogastri
Bhoga' with provisions of maintenance for (concubine) were made Devadasi and an
dancers, musicians and vocalists. Besides, his inscription of Simachalam 27 states that daughter
Narendrasvara inscription16 and his general of Arjunadeva of Oddadi was dedicated as a
Vanapati's inscription of the Bhagavati temple of temple servant. C.V. Ramachandra Rao28 has
Dirghasi17 state the arrangement of dance, music observed:
and dance-hall. It may be pointed out that 'Nata- In the medieval society, they were
mandapa' (dance-hall) became an important assigned a respectable place in the social order,
additional feature of the Orissan temples from and their profession did not carry any
Ganga time onwards. Anangabhima II employed disapprobation with it. With all the
Devadasis for dance and music in Meghesvara disapprobation that it may earn from the
and Sobhanesvara temple as known from the puritan critics of the present day, the
inscriptions of the respective temples. A institution of dancing girls did the greatest
Simhachalam inscription18 informs us that service to the arts of dance and music by its
Narasimha I's general Aktai erected the single minded devotion to those arts.
Natyamandapa of the temple in Saka 1160 (1238
A.D.) and the king appointed one hundred of The courtesans of the Later Imperial
"Kumaris" to sing in the temple.19 Narasimha Gangas and the Suryavamsi Gajapatis were
Bharati Sripada, the great Vaisnava saint and known as "Sampradaya-Mubhari" or "Lanjalu"
exponent of Madhava Mahavada arranged for (fully dedicated to temple service) and "Sanulu"
'Nama Samkrittana, at Simachalam with two flute- (part-time employment).
players and eight musicians as known from an It is interesting to note that there was a
inscription dated Saka 1281.20 Whereas Govinda Telenga community of dancing girls in the
Jiyana also arranged for 'Nama-Samkirttana' Jagannatha temple of Puri. Gajapati Prataparudra
according to the rules of Oriya Sampradaya in who himself has been adorned with the title of
the temple in Saka1312. 21 Pandita Dasa, "Sangita Sahitya Samlapa" has issued a command
Narasimha II's minister appointed two female in an inscription dated 1499 A.D. that all the
flute-players and ten singers in Srikurmam.22 groups of dancers, including the Telanga girls
Narasimha III's queen Gangadevi appointed a should henceforth dance only with the chanting
group of eighteen musicians as revealed from an and Tala of the Gita-Govinda29 (by Jayadeva).
inscription of Saka 1272.23 Many more instances He has further ordered in an inscription of Anka
may be quoted from the Ganga inscriptions in this 430 that music and dance of Gita-Govinda should
regard. continue in the temple from the evening rituals
Sanivaru or Sanulu community of dancing (Sandhya dhupa) till the 'Bada Singhara', so that
girls (Nrutyangana) belonged to both Sudra caste other concert group, viz., 'Bada Sampradaya',
as well as to respectable families whereas a 'Puruna Sampradaya' and 'Telanga Sampradaya'
Simachalam inscription refers to the fomer,24 could learn the music and the dance forms of Gita-
26
Govinda. A stipulation that if any 'Parichha' would illustrious Bharata, the composer of Natya
arrange any other music or dance (other than that Sastra), "Cappannam Beyakara (Versed in 56
of Gita-Govinda) he would sin against Lord ragas) and 'Todaramalla' (A honorific title, a
Jagannatha - was appended in the inscription. The badge) in the Simachalam temple inscription dated
reference of a 'Bada Sampradaya' is also found Saka 1343.39 Further the inscriptions mention
in a Jagannath temple inscription of Govindadeva about 'nattuvas' or choreographers who were
(A.D. 1534-46).31 Similarly, the reference to maintained by the donations made by the people
'Natua Sampradaya' is found in a number of to the temple treasury.40
inscriptions.32 Very interesting information about
By the time of Kapilendra Gajapati, it may
composition of temple orchestra are gleaned from
be pointed out in the context, that about 80
the Simachalam inscription (Saka 1272)33 of
musical instruments had been in use as revealed
Gangadevi, referred to earlier. The troupe or choir
by the Sarala Mahabharata of Orissa. The climax
of 18 consisted of 8 dancers (patralu), 2 drummers
of musical attainment was attained in the reign of
(madatikatyelu), 1 vocalist (gayani) one woman
Prataparudra Gajapati who both patronized and
each for the instruments viz., a flageolet
(tukinamu), a conch-shell (sankhu), a Kettledrum practiced music in his reign. As pointed out earlier,
(avarjamu), drum (bheri), a blow-pipe (mihvuri), like Samudragupta who took the title of Kaviraja,
Brahmamihvuri, a kind of trumpet (kahali); he took the epithet of 'Sangita-Sahitya-Samlapa'.
besides a pair of women with bronze cymbals Chandrika Devi, daughter of the Ganga emperor
(Kamsya talamu) who were not counted in the Anangabhimadeva has been described as an
repertoire. Similarly, a repertory in a Srikurmam adept in dance and music in the Ananta Vasudeva
inscription34 of a governor (Daksina Desadhikari) temple inscription.41 The ministers, nobles and
of Narasimha II, consisted of 30 dancing girls high officials vied with one another to attain
(sanulu), 1 choreographer (mattuva), 6 drummers personal excellence as well as in extending
(madylakandru), 1 kettledrum beater (avajakadu), patronage to dance and music. Mention may be
1 Karadakadu, 1 kahalakadu and a leader of the made of Narayana Senapati (Simachalam
troupe (melunayakudu). inscription, Saka 1213) 42 who provided 5
nibandhas of money to 2 male singers and 4 female
It appears that all and sundry were not singers. The Brahmin minister of Odaddi was
admitted into the community of 'Sanulu' or known as 'Sangita Ratnakara'.43 Pratapavira
'Devadasi'. The inscriptions repeatedly speak
Gangaraju, a feudatory of Gangas in Janturunadu
about the beauty and the dancing-girls as 'Yosita
has been described as a 'Sarigitajna'. 44 One
sundarangi',35 'lavanyaguna sampanna'36 and
Krisnadedva is decorated with the title
praised for their faces as resembling the moon
"Sangitabodhi Chandra"45 (the moon in the ocean
(purnacandranana)37 and for eyes as 'Vama
of music). Narasimha VI's queen Uttamadevi's
vilocana'.38 Very likely, before their entry into the
uncle Tammana is mentioned as "Talambudhih"
dancing community they had to take lessions from
(an ocean of musical-measure).46
eminent Gurus, as in present day, some of whom
were attached to temples or royal courts, like The foregoing discussion reveals that
Ranganatha Vaggeyakara who had been Performing Arts, as in present time, was very
decorated with various titles, such as, 'Abhinava popular in ancient and mediaeval ages. It is
Bharatacarya' (a brand-new preceptor like the unfortunate that no treatise of early times on music
27
and dance forms of Orissa has been Prataparudra's 'Dasagriva-vadha' and 'Janaki-
available.However, references are available in such Pramoda': Dibakara Mishra's 'Parijata-harana',
medieval literary works as 'Ekamra Purana', 'Veni-Samhara,'Prabhavati'; "Sri Jagannatha
'Svarnadri Mahodaya', 'Durgotsava Chandrika, Ballabha" by Ramanand Raya etc. were some of
'Parimala Kavya, Dandi Ramayana, Sarala the significant compositions, and were probably
Mahabharata, Kavi Kalpadruma, Rasa played on stages or in open-air. In the context,
Kalpadruma etc. However, the poses and the Damodar Hota50 has pertinently observed
postures of the dancers, the musical instruments All these dramas embellished with
portrayed on the caves and temples, the musical colour bespeak the continuity of the
references to various types of communities, the tradition of Udra form, of Classical Music in
patronage of kings and royal personages and, the Orissa. "Sri Jagannatha Ballabha Nataka" by
institution of Devadasi, go a long way to depose Raya Ramananda can be taken as a bright
the attainment in the field. example to prove this fact; the songs we come
The epigraphic references, corroborated by across in this work, are in the form of
plastic art, suggest that present tradition of 'Prabandhas' based on Raga and Tala'. The
classical dance and music is the "outcome of authors of later periods referred to this work
continuous evolutions". Bharata Muni very likely are Krisna Dasa Badajena Mahapatra,
standardized Indian dance and music on the basis Raghunatha Nanda, Gajapati Narayana Dev
of geo-musical significance into 4 types, viz., Harichandan etc. We are prompted by the
Avanti, Daksinatya, Pancali and (U) Odra- above facts to conclude that 'Udra Paddhati'
of 'Prabandha gana continued to flourish in
Magadhi. The last one, named after Orissa-
Orissa till 19th century A.D. unabatedly.
Magadha or the Eastern Region has been
classified into 32 Melas on the basis 'Ragas' on In fine, it may be said that classical dance
genus-species 47 like Dhanasri, Kokila, Asavari, and music grew from early Christian time from
Mahallara, Todi, Bhairavi etc. and 14 Talas like the Cave-palace of Kharavela and continued
Adi, Jati, Eka, Jhampaka, Rupaka etc.48 and 15 down the ages till 16th/17th centuries A.D.,
varieties of composition styles (Paddhati) Viz., Sri particularly in such famous temples as
Gita Govinda, Divya Manusi Prabandha, Bhajana, Simamchalam, Srikurmam and Jagannatha with
Janana, Champu, Tribhanga, Vyanjani etc. set to patronage of the royal and religious personages
Ragas and Talas. Oddisi is a variant of Indian and loving participation of the people. The temples
classical music and has evolved from the Odra- proved to be the veritable cradle of the dance
Magadhi. and the music whereas open-ground and stages
proved to be the theater of operation of the plays.
As regards dramaturgy49 'Anargha- These performing Arts grew luxuriantly in Orissa,
Raghava Nataka' by Murari Mishra (8th/9th contributed significantly to Indian classical forms
Centruy A.D.), the oldest available, was and further flourished as one of the most advanced
performed at Puri on the occasion of the Yatra of form and, earned name and renown not only in
Sri Purusottama. Prabodha Chandrodaya by Orissa or India but also in abroad. The performing
Krsna Mishra (mid-11th Century), 'Chandrakala' Arts of Orissa, with a long and hoary tradition of
by Viswanatha Mahapatra, 'Parasurama Vijaya' evolution, have proved to be a priceless artistic
by Kapilendradeva (1435-66); Gajapati heritage of the country.
28
References: 30. E.I., LXII, 1893, pp. 88-104.

1. E.I., XX (1929-30), Gandhava-Veda-Budha 31. OHRJ, V, No. 4, Jan. 1957, p. 217.
dapa-nata-gita-Vadita samdasanahi usava 32. S. I.I., VI, No. 1049, 1052.
samaja Karapanahi ca Krdapayai Nagarim (L-
5). 33. Ibid, 1052.
2. Sahu, N.K.-Odia Jatira Itihasa, Vol.I, P. 133 34. Ibid, V, 1188.

(Bhubaneswar, 1974). 35-38. Ibid, VI, 1052, 1137, ibid, 1197.
3. Natya Sastra, Canto 14. 39. Rao, C.V. Ramachandra, op.cit. 326.
4. Beuria, N. (ed)- Orissa State Gazetteer, II, P.141 40. S.I.I., VI, 1049, 890, 1134 etc.
(Govt. of Orissa, 1991).
41. EI, XXX, 19.
5. Ibid, P. 142.
42. S.I.I., VI, No. 904.
6. Sahu, J.K. : Odisara Samskrtika Itihasa, II, P. 51
(Bhubaneswar,2001). 43. Rajguru, S.N. - Odisara Samskritika Itihasa, IV,
p. 121 (Bhubaneswar, 2001).
7. Jimmer, H. : The Art of Indian Asia, I,P.224.
44. S. I.I., V, No. 1150.
8. Sahu, N.K. : op.cit., p. 317.
45. Ibid, VI, No. 725.
9. Orissa Historical Research Journal, XXXIX,
Nos. 1-4, pp. 115-18, Text LC 12-13. 46. Ibid, 769.
10. Rajguru, S.N. Inscriptions of Orissa, IV, No. 17 47. Acharya, TG. Patra- Oddisi Sangita Prakasha,
(Bhubaneswar, 1966). Vol. 1.
11. Sahu, J.K. : Odisa Itihasa, I, pp. 243-44 (Cuttack). 48. Das, K. - Gita Prakasa ; Rath, R.N. - Natya
Monorama; Gajapati Narayan Dev- Sangite
12. Indian Antiquary, XXXIV, pp. 197-98. Narayana; Harichandan-Sangita Muktavali;
13. Rajguru, S.N. : op.cit. No. 39. Hota, D - Kisora Candranana Campu Lahari
etc.
14. Ibid, No. 40.
49. Misra, N.M. - Odisa ki Natak aur Rangamanc.
15. South Indian Inscriptions, V, No. 1010
(hereinafter call S.I.I.). 50. Das, M.N. (ed.) Sidelights on History and
Culture of Orissa. P. 772 (Bhubaneswar, 1978).
16. Journal of Andhra Historical Research Society,
XII, Pt-I, p. 16.
17. Epigraphia Indica, IV. P. 318.
18-27. See S.I.I., Nos. 1142, 1197, 890, 722, 1037, 1052,
1202, 1188, 668,876.
28. Administration and Society in Mediaeval
Andhra, P. 303 (Nellore, 1976).
29. Journal of Asiatic Society of Bengal, LXII, Dr. D.B. Mishra is the Reader in History in G.M. College,
p. 97. Sambalpur.
29
Success
Success Story
Karamula: A Village
Where Tradition and Heritage Play Enterprise
Gurbir Singh
At a time when Generation X has grown almost of this village have successfully employed
old and its junior ilk- Gen Y is slowly taking over themselves by taking recourse to the traditional
from it the joyous burden of carrying modernity arts and tribal crafts which are fast dying
further ahead, it is very pleasant and refreshing to everywhere in the state. Atleast they do not exist
set your foot in a for the educated youth
village in Orissa who can hardly think
where time seems to of learning them to
be really on a make a living out of
rearward journey
them.
though in a pleasant
and enterprising way. Pala t he
traditional folk art
Karamula an
half hour s bus ride performed in the open
from Dhenkanal town where a lead singer-
takes you to this cum-performer along
village of over three with his fellow choir
thousand people, members narrate
situated calmly on the episodes from
quiet bank of the A young boy learning the craft from the old mythology both in
perennial river so ng and action;
Brahmani in the Gondia block of the district. The together with the antiquated, but very fascinating
signal tower of the All India Radio Station at the craft of tribal jewelleryare now for many youth of
nearby town Joranda stands majestically amidst this village a very successful way of self-
the region s beautiful and ever-bestowing flora employment. Perhaps it sounds like a bit snubbing
and fauna. Impressively likewise, the youth in for smart economists. But the nicest thing about
Karamula can now serve themselves as role the novel endeavour of these young people is that
models of rural entrepreneurship for their they are earning very handsomely too.
counterparts in the rest of Orissa. Well, why not
for the rest of India too! Many college and high There are over dozens of pala-performing
school drop-outs, together with some graduates troupes in this village. Pleasantly four of these are
30
mainly run by Great, but wait, for traditional art s help

all-female does not end here. There are some dozen Self-
members. Help Groups separately formed by the young men
Young, semi- and women artisans of the village which are
educated and dedicated to reviving and popularizing tribal
a mb it io u s , jewelleryin commercial markets. These artisans
these self- are not ordinary artisans. They are uncommon in
ent erp rising the sense that most of them are young with school
youths have and college backgrounds and they are not
b e c o m e expecting the government to provide them with
popular for jobs.
their superb Meet Maguni Maharana, a young graduate
performance of who runs his own registered NGO, "Crafts
pala. Perhaps Orissa" in his own village. He has learnt from his
being young, father their ancestral skill of tribal jewellerymaking.
educated and This jewelleryis made of white metals, Dokra and
smart help them brass. They range from earrings, necklaces,
steal a march bracelets, anklets, rings and even mangalsutras.
Maguni Maharana proudly over their They are all exquisitely designed and they
exhibiting his tribal jewelry products
t ypical, invariably retain the authenticity and originality of
stereotyped, old and illiterate counterparts. Each the typical tribal wear. And believe me, these
group consists of six artists and it gets paid a sum jewelleryare so good, cheap and exotic that
of a little over rupees one thousand for a single people with some taste for change and tribular
pala performance. Barring the rainy days, the distinction will find them good enough for both
groups claim to be receiving as many as ten calls casual and fashionable wear.
for pala performance from different areas every
month. One all female group has just been back Young Maharana, together with some
home after a month s continuous performance in fifteen other SHGs in his village, gets the help of a
Sambalpur. Bhubaneswar based NGO which helps them get
the raw materials form Calcutta. The supply order
Ragunath Behera, an ex-serviceman and a too is placed by this intermediary agency which
Pala-performer himself, while frequently quoting markets these tribal ornaments in places like Delhi,
facile mantras from scriptures, something which Calcutta, Hyderabad, Pune and Madras. The
comes to him fluidly, says that this way the youth good news is that these young artisans of a small
are doubly serving the society. Firstly by self- village are also bringing in foreign currency as their
employing themselves without being a liability to products get marketed abroad. There are a lot of
the country s exchequer; secondly by preserving takers of these tribal ornaments among foreigners.
Orissa s rich cultural heritage for the next
generation. Besides, he says, this act of bringing With more than eighty varieties of
scriptures to common people is also an act of mangalsutras, two hundred types of necklaces
great virtue. and forty designs of earrings, just to count a few
31
The synthesis of these two primitive but

exquisite designs of tribal jewellery will surely
bring in a new tale of successful marketing of the
same in future. Innovative in its own sense, artistic
and very exquisite, and yet authentically primitive,
the tribal jewellery making surely stands to serve
as a good business enterprise for these rural youth.
But more than anything else, the charm of a youthful
face gleaming with sure hope of making it on its
own shows signs of change in the rural India. When
everywhere else, youths from the rural area are
rushing to the nearest towns and cities seeking
employment, a mere attitudinal change among
A lady entrepreneur being her own model. some youth of this village has given a new
dimension to the rural entrepreneurship.
items, these tribal ornaments are definitely going
to be any connoisseur s treat. And a sure That the traditional art forms and our rich
inspiration for any fashion designer who has some cultural heritage are playing a role in these self-
respect for the ancient craft. employment endeavours in villages is beyond
doubt a welcome news for economists and
Tulsidas Sorabi, a tribal artisan from
laymen alike.
Nabarangpur has been here since last month.
Three more months to go before he leaves with
three other artisans of his village for home, but
not before they have all learnt and mastered the
craft of the intricate and exquisite designs of
Dhenkanal s tribal jewelry. Beauty is that the local
artisans who are now playing teachers to these
outsiders had been trained by them last year back
home on the making of jewellery worn by the tribal Th e author is presently serving as SDIPRO,
men and women in Koraput. Bhanjanagar.
32
Lord Jagannath : Symbol of Unity and

Integration
Dr. Chitrasen Pasayat
The literary meaning of Jagannath (Jagat+Nath) mentioned in some places. For instance,
is the Lord of the Universe. He is called Ramachandra had once advised Bibhisana to
Devadhideva (Lord of Lords) and Rajadhiraj worship Jagannath. Some scholars opine that the
(King of Kings). He is also known as Purushottam vedi or antarvedi as referred to in the
(Purusa+uttama i.e. the supreme Purusa). Puri Mahabharata is nothing but the ratnavedi i.e.
otherwise known as Jagannath Puri is the abode raised stone platform or pedestral on which the
of the Lord of the Universe. Puri is also popularly deities are seated in Puri temple. Jagannath is also
known as Sri-kshetra, Sankha-kshetra, known as Daru-Brahma or the prime soul
P u ru sho t t a m- enshrined in wood.
kshetra, Neelachala Some scholars co-
and Neeladri. In fact, relate this Daru with
Puri is synonymous that of Apurusham
with Lord Jagannath Daru mentioned in
and vice versa. the Rig Veda and
Popularly the word hold the view that
Jagannath has been worship of Lord
used for Puri. In the Jagannath started
ancient Hindu before the Christian
religious scriptures era. Indrabhuti in his
and puranas namely Vajrayana treatise
Vishnu Purana, Agni Purana, Brahma Purana, Gyanasidhi has mentioned the name of Jagannath.
Padma Purana, Naradiya Purana, Bhagavat Neeladri Mahodaya also narrates in detail the
Purana, Skanda Purana, Kapila Purana or ritual and custom of the deities in the Puri temple.
Kapila Samhita, Tantra Jamala, Rudra The most famous Oriya work of Sarala Das
Jamala, Kalika Purana, Bamadev Samhita, belonged to 15th century is Mahabharata wherein
Neeladri Mahodaya and the like, one finds the the poet has narrated in detail the legendary origin
references of this religious pitha. In the Sanskrit of Lord Jagannath. Besides, there are references
Ramayana and the Mahabharata though there of Purushottam Jagannath and Puri in a number
are no clear and specific references to this pitha of inscriptions like Nagpur stone inscription of
or deity, the word Jagannath has been found 1104 AD, Govindpur inscription of 1137 AD,
33
Lingaraj temple inscription of 1230-38 AD, in Cuttack in 1949 attests the fact that Ananga
Srikurma temple inscription of Bhanu Dev II of Bhima Deva constructed the temple at Puri.
1310 AD, Kapilas inscription of Narasimha Dev Dr.S.N.Rajguru is of the opinion that an ancient
of 1238-64 AD, Neulapur inscription of Subhakar temple of Lord Purushottam was built on the sea
Dev of 780-800 AD, Satana, Madhya Pradesh shore. After the destruction of the temple, the
inscription of 10th century AD, Nagari Copper presiding deity was removed and was installed in
Plate of King Anangabhima Dev III of 1230 AD, a new temple built by Yajati-II in 10th century
Baramdeo Temple inscription of 840-1088 AD, AD. The temple built by him is nothing but the
Simanchala temple inscription of 1319 AD, present temple of Nrushimha in the bhitara bedha
Nrushimha, Markandeswara and Pataleswara (inner circle) of the Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri.
temple inscription at Puri of 1113 AD-1238 AD, Subsequently, Chodaganga Deva built the present
Dasagova Copper plates of 1192 AD-1211 AD. temple by the northern side of the Nrushimha
According to legends as depicted in some temple. But during his life time, he could not
Puranas, Raja Indradyumna of Malab (central complete the work and his descendant Ananga
India) had built a huge temple for Lord Jagannath. Bhima Deva III completed the construction work
It was 1000 cubits high. In course of time, the of the temple and also performed the glorious
temple was collapsed. It was the first temple of pratistha ceremony and the deities were installed
Lord Jagannath. But historical evidence as to the in the new and huge temple sometimes in 1230
temple by Raja Indradyumna is not available. AD.
Hence, Raja Indradyumna appears to be a Shri Jagannath temple at Puri has four
legendary figure. Historically, it is believed that chambers or sections namely Deula or Vimana
the present temple was built in the 12th century (sanctum sanctorum) where the deities are seated
AD by King Ananta Burman Chodaganga Deva. on the ratnavedi; Mukhasala (porch); Nata
Reportedly, he was the founder of the Ganga Mandira and Bhoga Mandapa. It is said that
dynasty in Orissa. Chodaganga started the Deula and the Mukhasala were built in the
construction of this huge temple but could not 12th century AD and the Natamandapa and
complete it during his life. Thereafter, it was Bhogamandapa were added subsequently during
completed during the time of his successor the reign of Raja Purushottam Deva (1461-1491
Ananga Bhima Deva III. According to the noted AD) and Raja Prataprudra Deva (1495-1532
historian Sterling, Ananga Bhima Deva built the AD) respectively. It may be noted that the
temple in 1196 AD. But scholar like Ferguson Natamandapa is also known as Jagamohana.
opines that the temple was built in 1098 AD. The presiding deities in the temple are Lord
However, according to Hunter the construction Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess
of the temple began in 1174 AD and completed Subhadra. These three deities are popularly
in 1198 AD. On the other hand, R.D.Banerjee known as Trimurti (trinity). The trio with
holds the view that the temple was built by Sudarshana are seated on the Ratnavedi in the
Chodaganga Deva at the close of the 11th century. Deula or Vimana portion of the temple. The four
Moreover, as per the Madalapanji, old chronicles idols are popularly known as Chaturdhamurti.
of the temple written on palm leaves, Ananga Two other small idols namely Goddess Sridevi
Bhima Deva ordered for the construction of the (Laxmi), Goddess Bhoodevi or Biswadhatri are
present temple. A copper plate grant discovered seated on the Ratnavedi on the left and right side
34
of Lord Jagannath respectively. Another small (Orissa) to have a darshan of the deity. The king
replica of Lord Jagannath called Neelamadhaba was disappointed at the sudden disappearance
is seated by the side of Lord Jagannath. In other of the deity. The deity was hidden in sand. Raja
words, there are seven idols found on the Indradyumna was determined not to return without
Ratnavedi. Except Sridevi and Bhoodevi, the having a darshan of the deity and observed fast
other five idols are made of neem wood. Sridevi onto death at Neelagiri. The deity was pleased
and Bhoodevi are metallic images of gold and with the king. Thereafter, the king performed a
silver respectively. It is also commonly believed horse sacrifice and built a magnificent temple for
that before installation of Lord Jagannath, the deity. Narada brought the Nrushimha murti
Neelamadhaba was the only presiding deity of (image) and it was installed inside the temple.
the temple. During the sleep, the king had a vision of Lord
According to the legend, Lord Nrusimha Jagannath. An astral voice directed him to cut
was being worshipped at Neelagiri (Puri) down the fragrant tree on the seashore and make
alongwith Neelamadhaba. As mentioned earlier, idols out of it. Thereafter, Viswakarma appeared
Lord Nrushimha is being worshipped in a separate before the king in the guise of an old man and
temple adjacent t o Muktimandapa / expressed his desire to make the idols and installed
Muktamandapa. According to the legend, the in the garbha-griha (sanctum sanctorum).
image o f Neelamadhaba was made of Some scholars believe that Neelamadhaba
Neelakanta mani (emerald). However, the was originally a non-Aryan tribal deity. But, there
present image of the deity is made of neem wood. is no denying the fact that the very name
Legend further says that Lord Jagannath was Neelamadhaba indicates a Sanskrit Aryan name.
originally worshipped by a savara raja (an Some scholars believe that the deity belongs to
aboriginal tribal chieftain) named Viswabasu. Hindus pantheon and he was originally in the form
Having heard about the glory of the deity, Raja of a Sila (stone) Brahma and afterwards became
Indradyumna sent a Brahmin priest called a Daru (wood) Brahma. In course of
Vidyapati to discover the exact location of the development, Neelamadhaba became Jagannath
deity who was then secretly worshipped by and was worshipped alone. Subsequently,
Viswabasu inside the cave of a dense forest. Balabhadra, Subhadra and Sudarshana were
Vidyapati tried his best, but could not locate the incorporated consequent upon the resurgence of
place of worship. Finally, he could manage to Saivism and Saktism. It is believed that there was
marry the Lalita, daughter of Viswabasu. At a great resurgence of Saktism from the 7th century
repeated request of Lalita, Viswabasu took his onwards. The image of Goddess Durga or Sakti
son-in-law blind-folded to a cave wherein Lord was included by the side of Lord Jagannath in the
Neelamadhaba was being worshipped. Vidyapati temple. Durga or Sakti is also known as Bhadra
was a very intelligent man. He dropped mustard or Mangala. It is believed that this Bhadra or
seeds on the ground on his way. Mangala came to be known as Subhadra
After a few days, the seeds germinated (Srikrishna's sister). Lord Siva or Veerabhadra
which helped Vidyapati to locate the cave wherein was transformed into Balabhadra (elder brother
the deity was being worshipped hiddenly. On of Srikrishna) under the influence of Vaishnavism.
hearing from Vidyapati subsequently, Raja It is also accepted that Jagannath was the only
Indradyumna immediately rushed to Odra desa deity being worshipped as per the Tantrik
35
Buddhist rituals at one time. In course of time, treatise on Vajrayana. It is also widely believed
under t he inspiration and influence of that in the cavity of the wooden image of Jagannath
Sankaracharya and with the active support of Raja a danta (tooth) of Buddha has been preserved.
Yajati Kesari, Balabhadra as Siva and Subhadra At the time of Nabakalebara ceremony of the
as Bhubaneswari were included to form the Triad. deities, the sacred tooth of Buddha is transferred
In other words, the three important streams of to a new image and the old images are buried in
the Hindu spiritual cultural tradition namely the koilibaikuntha situated in the bahara-bedha
Saivism, Saktism and Vaishnavism were (outer circle) of the temple. The car festival of
accommodated in the Trid under the common Lord Jagannath is a reproduction of that tooth
umbrella of Vaishnavism in the Puri temple. festival of Lord Buddha. The name of Puri was
It is also believed that during the time of Dantapuri and the temple of Lord Jagannath has
Somavamsi Raja Yajati in Orissa, attempts were been built on the ruins of a Buddhist stupa.
made to bring together all the main deities However, Buddha and Jagannath have remained
worshipped in different parts of the then Orissa. one and identical in Puri temple. The most
Purushottam Jagannath of Kalinga and Kangoda celebrated ancient Oriya poets, popularly known
(east Orissa), Baladeva or Nagaraj of Toshali as Panchasakhas namely Jagannath Das, Balaram
(north Orissa) and goddess Stambheswari/ Das, Achutananda Das, Yashovanta Das and
Khambeswari or Ekanamsa Subhadra of west Ananta Das belonging to 15th-16th centuries have
Orissa were brought together and worshipped at described Lord Jagannath as Buddha in their
Puri temple as the State deities of the greater writings. It would not be out of place to mention
Orissa or Trikalinga empire. In all probability, it that on the wall of Jagamohana by the side of
was a political move for unification and integration the Garuda stambha and also at the top of the
of a larger area of the then Orissa. In this context, Singha dwara (Lions gate) of the temple, one
it would not be out of context to mention that the finds images of the ten avataras (incarnations)
words Kaivalya, Purushottam and Natha indicate of Lord Vishnu. In the ninth place i.e. the place of
influence of Jainism on the Jagannath cult as Buddha, one finds the image of Jagannath. In view
opined by some scholars. According to this line of the analysis made above, it may be surmised
of thought, the word Jagannath is derived from that Buddhism and Jainism have also been
Jineswara. According to Jainism, Rishava is accepted as integral parts of Hinduism. As such,
Jineswara. The car festival day of Jagannath i.e. the people following these religions are not at all
asadha sukla dwitiya is observed as the birth prohibited from entering into the Shri Jagannath
day of Rishava. Originally, Jagannath was a tribal temple at Puri.
(savara) deity called Jaganta and under the
influence of Jainism the word nath was perhaps
suffixed to it. Thus, the deity became Jagannath.
It is also accepted by some other scholars that
the worship of Jagannath is of Buddhist origin.
They hold the view that the three deities symbolize
the Triratna of Buddhist tradition which refers to
Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. Buddha has been Dr. Chitrasen Pasayat is the Asst. Administrator in the
addressed as Jagannath in the Gyanasiddhi a Sri Jagannath Temple Office at Puri.
36
Poverty and Performance of Major Welfare

Schemes in Gajapati District
Prasant Sarangi
&
Satyabrata Pattanaik
Orissa is endowed with rich natural resources in witnessed a trend decline in the incidence of
the form of vast mineral reserves, forests, fertile poverty. Years of development have not changed
land, plentiful surfaces and ground water, long its economic condition satisfactorily .Sahu ( 1997)
coastline, picturesque tourist potential, and many estimated the ratio of people living below the
others. Beside all these convincing pictures, poverty line in the state to be more than 60 percent
Orissa ranks very low among the Indian states in during 1983-84. An earlier study by Mahendra
terms of per capita income, poor level of living, Dev (1992) had revealed that in between 1961-
and is therefore regarded as one of the backward 62 to 1986-87, around 65 percent of rural
population in Orissa were living below poverty
states. As per an estimate, among the fifteen
line instead of the quoted figure of 48.3 percent
major backward states of India, the position of
as estimated by the Planning Commission.
Orissa particularly with regard to living conditions
However the official figures of the rate of poverty
not so encouraging. at present is estimated to be 47.2 percent (Sarangi
Millions of people are living in extreme and Penthoi, 2005).
poverty, constantly facing with the threat of Objective and Methodology:
uncertainty and inadequate food supplies. In this
context, the government of India is continuously The basic objective of the present paper is to:
implementing a number of food security measures 1. Analyse the general economic condition
by its successive planning the public distribution of the Gajapati district which is one of the poorest
system, food for work programme, targeted tribal concentrated districts of Orissa.
public distribution system and a dozen of related
incentives which are all meant to feed millions of 2. Analyse the quantum of poverty in the
hungry stomach living in the country who even district based on income and occupation category,
and,
sleep without two square meals a day (Sarangi,
2004). 3. Examine the performance of some major
welfare schemes that are functioning in the district.
Orissa like India, is pre-eminently
agricultural.1 The most important economic unit The study is based on secondary source
is the villages. 2 Over the years, Orissa has of information that has been compiled and
37
collected from various Government surveys, contribution to the history, culture, literature, art,
reports, doctoral theses, scribes and books economy and religion of Orissa. The district is
relevant to the present study. For examining the having a total population of 5,18,448 persons
functioning and performances of the major welfare (male being 2,55,288 and female being 2,63,160)
schemes in the district, data and facts related to living in 106 grama panchayats, one NAC and
different schemes are collected from concerned one municipality. Paralakhemundi is the district
departments of the Gajapati district during May, head quarter.
2004. On the basis of occupational pattern of
This paper is divided into three segments. the district, it is found that, about 86.99 percent
Segment-l briefly introduces geographic- of its people are living in the pursuit of agriculture.
demographic-economic conditions of the Gajpati The percentage of main workers to the total
district. Where as Segment-2 of the paper population is estimated at 42.01. Industrial worker
constitute a very small proportion i.e. only 2.31
represents the condition of poverty in the district
percent of the total main workers. Out of the total
followed by examining the performances of the
main workers in the district 50.2 percent are
functioning of major welfare schemes in the district
cultivators, 35.39 percent are agricultural
in Segment-3. Finally the paper ends with a
labourers, only 8.73 percent are engaged in the
general conclusion of the findings of the study.
category of trade and commerce, mining,
Segment-l: Introduction to Gajapati: household and other than household etc. and the
rest 5.68 percent are engaged in other services
The district of Gajapati, originally a part category (table-1).
of Ganjam district is bordered by Ganjam in the
north east, Kandhamal in the north, Rayagada in The district has a total of 122.81 thousand
the west and Srikakulam district of Andhra hectors as gross cropped area (200 1-2002) with
Pradesh in the south presents a strange amalgam 82.40 and 40.41 thousand hectares for Kharif
of the autochthonous Tribal, Telgu and Oriya and Rabi crops respectively. 80 thousand hectors
cultures. History of the region, generally traced as net area (50 thousand as high, 19 thousand as
from the Mauran age reached a climax under the medium and 11 thousand as low cultivable area)
which is the second lowest in area next to Deogarh
Raj families of Paralakhemundi in the late medieval
district (68 thousand hectors) in the state.
and modern period giving a panoramic picture of
rise and fall of successive royal dynasties, In respect of industrial sector, facts shows
resistance and freedom movements against the that, the net value added by the manufactures in
torturous rule of the British Government, the district is estimated as Rs.7.6 lakhs in the year
formation of the separate province of Orissa in 1996-97 and Rs.9 lakhs in the year 1997-98.
1936 etc. has been presented to the posterity. The district is having only 51 numbers of small
The rules of Paralakhemundi in particular and the scale and 228 cottage industries (1998-99)
people of Gajapati in general made remarkable employing only 382 and 456 persons respectively.
38
Table-l Occupational Pattern in Gajapati district

SI. Category of workers No. of % to total population
No. workers
1. Cultivators 95731 50.2
2. Agricultural labourers 67481 35.39
3. Livestock, forestry, fishery, hunting etc. 2672 1.40
4. Mining, 13 0.007
5. Household industries 2399 1.26
6. Other than household industries 1995 1.05
7. Construction 905 0.474
8. Trade and commerce 7432 3.9
9. Transport, storage, & communication. 1237 0.649
10. Other services 10839 5.68
Total population of main workers (total main workers) 190704 100
Non-workers 33432
Total workers 224136
Note: Computed from Fact Book on Manpower-V, DE & S, Bhubaneswar, Orissa.
The state highway is of 151 km. long with Rural poverty based on income groups :
66 km. long major district road, 4253 km. of
grama panchayats road and 440 km of village The intensity of poor people is estimated
road till 1998-99. The district is having one head on basis of different income groups. Table-2
post office, 18 numbers of sub-post offices, 127 shows distribution of rural families living below
numbers of branch offices with a total numbers poverty line with an income constraint of
of 146 post offices. It is having 50 km. of narrow Rs.10,000 (as per 1992 survey) of Panchayati
gauge single lined railway line with seven railway Raj Department, Government of Orissa. On the
stations. basis of different income level, people are assigned
with a name as destitute, very-very poor, very
Segment-2: Quantum of poverty in the poor and poor (with concerned income limit of
district: Rs.0-4000/-, Rs.4001-6000/-, Rs.6001- 8500/-
The Panchayati Raj department, and 8500-11000/- respectively. There are a total
Government of Orissa has estimated the quantum of 29,218 persons (in a percentage of 33.3 to
of rural families living below the poverty line in total number of rural families) in the district as
the state, based on different income group and destitute. Similarly 31,063 persons (in 35.43
also on occupation pattern. For the present percent), 15,374 persons (in 17.53 percent) and
purpose we have considered the figures of 4,585 persons (in 5.23 percent) are found to be
Gajapati district and a comparison is made with in very-very poor, very poor and poor category.
that of the figure of Orissa state below. Among the total rural families of 87,684 persons,
39
the above four categories alone constitute 80,240 shows the rural poor structure of Orissa in each
families which is 91.51 percent to the total rural income category.
families of the district. Column-3 of the table
different income groups in Gajapati as well as in Orissa (as per 1992 survev)
Description-of income category - Region
Gajapati Orissa
1 2 3
(i) Rs.0-4,000 (Destitute) 29218 (33.32) 1352179 (25.89)
(ii) Rs.4,00 1-6,000 (very-very poor) 31063 (35.43) 1567662 (30.01)
(iii) Rs.6,001-8,500 (very poor) 15374 (17.53) 821415 (15.55)
(iv) Rs.8,501-11,000 (poor) 4585 (5.23) 378178 (7.24)
Total (i+ii+iii+iv) 80240 (91.51) 4110434 (78.70)
Others 7444 (8.49) 1112690 (21.30)
Total number of Rural Families 87684 (100) 5223124 (100)
Source: Panchayati Raj Department, Government of Orissa (computed)
Rural Poverty on basis of Occupation persons in the category of small farmers, 36148
The incidence of rural poverty in the district as persons as marginal farmers and 25934 persons
well as in the state is derived on the basis of as agricultural labours family which is in
occupation pattern. Table-3 shows a clear-cut percentage of 8.7, 41.23 and 29.58 respectively
picture of number of rural families living below to the total number of rural families in the district.
poverty line of Rs.11.000/- on the basis of their Column-3 of the table reveals the picture of Orissa
occupation pattern in the district as well as in the in respect of each occupation category.
state. From the table we find that, there are 7,631
Occupations in Gajapati district and in Orissa (as per 1992 survey)
Occupations Region
Gajapati District Orissa
1 2 3
Small Farmers 7631 (8.7) 660258 (12.64)
Marginal Farmers 36148 (41.23) 1786024 (34.19)
Agricultural Labourers 25934 (29.58) 1144438 (21.91 )
Non-Agricultural Labourers 9488 (10.82) 360842 (6.91)
40
Rural Artisans. 679 (0.77) 107331 (2.05)

Others 360 (0.41) 51541 (0.99)
Grand Total Rural Families 87684 (100) 5223124 (100)
Source: Panchayati Raj Department, Government of Orissa. Segment-3: Performance of major welfare
schemes:
A number of welfare schemes both state by I.T.D.A. upto March- 2004 is derived in
sponsored or centrally sponsored or combined Table-4. From the table, we will find that, I.T.D.A.
are implemented in the state from time to time in has helped the tribals in improving of their socio-
order to improve the living condition of the poor economic condition by providing credit facility in
people of the state. Some of them are analysed seven main occupational categories. The agency
below in respect of Gajapati district. so for assisted a total of 587 poor families in the
(i) Performance of ITDA: year 2003-2004 by providing Rs.1,22,43,034 as
loan amount out of its own fund with an subsidy
Tribals constitute the major portion in the district. of Rs.54,39,624 Sl.No.5 of the said table shows
Out of the seven blocks, five of them - Gumma, per family average subsidy released by ITDA
Rayagada, R. Udayagiri, Mohana, and Nuagada under its various activity where as Sl. No.6
are highly tribal populated. Hence the district of reveals structure or per family bank loan
Gajapati comes under the preview of Integrated sanctioned for each, scheme, Similarly, Sl.No.7
Tribal Development Agency (I.T.D.A.). Detailed shows average investment amount under each
information on various welfare activities promoted category in the district of Gajapati.
Table-4 Coverage under ITDA Gajapati (Mav-2004) (Bankable Schemes)

Sl. Activity / Land / Goatary Diesel Industrial RTS Rice Mill Plantation Total
No. Achievement package/ pump sets service (Group (gullers)
plough / business finance)
1. Total no. of
families aritsted 153 126 53 208 30(Group) 12 5 587
2. Total amount of
loan sanctioned
(in Rs.) 3060000 2520000 1060000 4160000 1103034 240000 100000 12243033
3. Total amount of
subsidy given by
ITDA (in Rs.) 1436160 1149159 529955 1779350 375000 120000 90000 5439624
4. Total loan sanc-
tioned by the
Bank (in Rs.) 1436160 1149159 529955 1779350 728034 120000 50000 3792658
41
5. Per family avg.

subsidy released
by ITDA (in Rs.) 9387 9120 9999 8554 12500 10000 10000
6. Per family back
loan sanctioned 9387 9110 9999 8554 24268 10000 10000
7. Avg. investment
per family (Rs) 18774 18240 19998 17109 36768 20000 20000
Note: Unit cost for each scheme is Rs.20000 except R.T.S.C finance, which is Rs.2,50,000.
Source: ITDA, Parlakhemundi, Gajapati.
(ii) Indira Awas Yojana: 2003-2004, engaging in different activities. In
The lndira Awas Yojana (IAY) was Phase-II of SGRY, various construction works
started in the year 1985-86 as a sub-plan of has been so far undertaken under which a total
RLEGP. The basic objective of the scheme is to amount of Rs.542.27/- lakh has been utilized in
construct houses for the poorest people of various construction work such as roads,
scheduled caste/scheduled tribe communities and drainage, sewage etc. creating a total of 12.09
the free bonded labour (since 1993-94 the plan lakh man days in the district.
extended to all BPL families). During its long more (iii) SGSY :
than 20 years of operation, a number of Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana
modifications has been done from time to time (SGSY) is implemented on April 1, 1999 with an
and at present working as a full-fledged objective to stimulate rural mass by providing them
programme since 1996. Under this yojana, out financial and technical assistance. In the district
of 2251 targeted houses in 2003-2004 a total of of Gajapati a sum of Rs.102.66/- lakh has been
1862 houses are so far constructed successfully so far sanctioned by covering 1469 swarojgaries
whereas rest houses are under construction. A out of the targeted number of 1434 persons in
total amount of Rs.44.71/- lakh is received and the year 2003-2004 under the SGSY scheme.
also invested in the year 2003-2004 for
upgradation of houses, under which a total of 431 (iv) PMGY :
houses are upgraded in the district. Beside these, Pradhan Mantri Gramodaya Yojana
Rs.22.670 lakhs has so tar received (central (PMGY) was implemented in the year 2000-
assistance of Rs.17.025 lakhs and state share of 2001 with an aim to meet five basic requirements
Rs.5.67 lakh) whereas Rs.23.76 lakh has been like-primary education, health drinking water,
utilized covering 89 beneficiaries under the grant housing and rural roads. Under the scheme a total
for special assistance for flood in the district. amount of Rs.33.59/- lakh is sanctioned in the
(iii) SGRY : district out of which, a sum of Rs.33.19/- lakh is
so far invested benefiting 104 numbers of homes.
SGRY scheme is in operation in the
district in two phases. Under SGRY-I a total Besides these other important schemes
amount of Rs.66S.36 lakh has so far utilized out like Annapurna Anna Yojana, Antyodaya Anna
of the sanction of Rs.684.74 lakh, creating a total Yojana, Mid-day Meal Scheme, Programmes for
of 10.30 lakh man-days in the district in the year ICDS, Old Age Pension Schemes (NOAPS and
42
OAPS), disable pension schemes, Pradhanmantri and tertiary sector (like health, transport and
Gram Sadak Yojana and many more programmes communication, education etc.). Hence an
are in full-fledged progress in the district of integrated approach in all these sectors is the need
Gajapati in a forward mood to cope with the of the hour for all round development of the
requirements of poor masses. district. Again to reduce the higher concentration
Conclusion and Suggestions: of rural poverty, adequate funds should be
diverted to the rural development programmes
To conclude, Gajapati district is found to by rectifying/ modifying the loopholes and
be one of the poorest districts in the state. The problems that are associated in the presently
incidence of poverty is more in tribal concentrated functioning rural development programmes.
regions of the district. From the occupation pattern
and income categories, it is found that the Notes:
proportion of rural families living below the poverty 1. Gadgil, D.R. The Industrial Evolution of India in
line is much higher in the district. In income Recent Times, 1860-1939, Oxford University Press,
category, particularly, more percentage of Bombay, 1971.
population are concentrated on very-very poor 2. Pradhan, N.B. Economic Backwardness and
category, while in occupation structure, marginal development of Orissa, Ph. D Thesis
farmers proportion is high in the district. The inter- (Unpublished) submitted to Berhampur University,
district comparison in level of living indicates ranks Orissa, 1979.
the district in 21st place narrating in lower middle References
category. Again the performance of various
1. Allaona, Z., "India-Achievement and Challenges
welfare activities both self employment and wage in Reducing Poverty", Th e World Bank,
employment programmes even through to some Washington. D.C.
extent are working smoothly but not satisfactory
2. District Statistical Hand Book, Gajapati (1999),
which of course due to a number of reasons and Directorate of E & S, Bhubaneswar .
difficulties in the process of operation.
3. Fact Book on Manpower, Series-v, Directorate of
In the light of above findings, it can be E & S, Orissa.
suggested that appropriate efforts should be made 4. Kar, G.C. and R.K. Meher (2001), "An Evaluation of
to reduce the incidence of poverty in the district anti-poverty programmes in Koraput district of
though implementation of appropriate regional Orissa", NCD, Bhubaneswar. .."An evaluation of
policies. To improve the living conditions of the the Anti-poverty Programmes in Nawrangpur
people-particularly to the tribal mass, economic district of Orissa (Mimeo)", NCDS, Bhubaneswar.
growth is necessary. As we have, when the 5. Mahendra, Dev. S. (1992), "Rural Poverty of India:
economy grows, poverty diminishes faster than In cidence, Issues, an d policies", Asian
growth is stronger, slower when it is not. For this, Development Review, Vol. 10, No.1.
the values of the development indicators like 6. Panda, B.K. (1996), Consumption Pattern in Orissa:
literacy rate, per capita income, infant revival rate, An Econometr ic Analysis, Ph. D Th esis
per capita food grain production, per capita net (Unpublished) submitted to Berhampur University,
Orissa.
value added by the manufacture, etc. need to be
improved through appropriate and adequate 7. Pradhan, Ajay Kumar and Dr. Pradhan, N.B., "Socio-
investment in the sectors like agriculture, industry Economic Development of Juanga of Keonjhar
43
District in Orissa", Ph.D. submitted to Berhampur 12. Sarangi, P. (2004), Consumption and Poverty in
University, 2003. Orissa : An Econometric Analysis M.Phil
(unpublished) dissertation submitted to Berhampur
8. Pradhan, N.B. (1979), Economic Backwardness and
University, Orissa.
development of Orissa, Ph. D Thesis (Unpublished)
submitted to Berhampur University, Orissa. 13. Sarangi, P. and Penthoi, G.C. (2005) "Economic
Implications of Natural Disasters in Orissa: A
9. Sahu, B.K. (1997), Poverty, Anti-poverty
Retrospective View", Orissa Review, June.
Programmes and Rural change- A Study of Selected
Tribal Villages in Phulbani, Ph.D Th esis 14. Various Economic Surveys.
(Unpublished) Submitted to Berhampur University,
Orissa.
10. Sarangi, Prasant, "Gajapati-An Economic Profile"
published in "Cultural Heritage of Gajapati"
Vyasakabi Fakirmohan Smruti Sadan, Bhubaneswar. Prasant Sarangi and Satyabrata Pattanaik are Research
11. Sarangi, Prasant, "Self Help Groups -An Experiment Scholars in the P.G. Department of Economics,
in Orissa" Kurukshetra, February, 2003. Berhampur University, Berhampur.
Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik paying tributes to late Biju
Patnaik at Swargadwar, Puri on 17.4.2006. Shri Maheswar Mohanty,
Hon'ble Speaker, Orissa Legislative Assembly and Shri Prasanna Kumar
Patsani, M.P. are also present.
44
Changing Faces of Business

B. N. Biswal
Historical Development of Business not given for pursuing business. It is because, in

Historically business is as old as civilization. the past, business career was not socially
Archaeological records show that by 5000 BC approved to be honourable one and uneducated
merchants in the Mesopotamian valleys of the person and backward sections of the society
Tigris and Eyphrates rivers knew a good deal practiced such activities.
about business techniques. Ancient India is famous Need for the Study
for its rich trade and commerce. In Orissa too,
The age-old beliefs are changed now. The
the myths of "Sadhabo", "Balijatra" etc., reveal
rapid growth of industries, development of
the flourished business.
commerce and management education, financial
Business is a form of activity pursued sector reforms, globalisation, etc., made the
primarily with the objective of earning profit. It is business career as one of the best choices in
an enterprise which makes, distributes or provides modern life. The objective of the present study is
any article or service which other members of the to analyse the problems and prospects of business
community need and are able and willing to pay enterprises in Nabarangpur town through a sample
for it. survey so that the students can have first hand
Part of the Society information about the business enterprises.
Moreover, the survey and the preparation of the
Keith Davis and Robert Blomstorm have
report will be helpful to the students in their future
observed that 'business is a social institution
higher studies.
performing a social mission and having a broad
influence on the way people live and work About Nabarangpur Town
together'. Every business enterprise is a part of Nabarangpur is the headquarter of
the society. It operates within the society, and Nabarangpur district. It is one of the oldest
exists primarily to satisfy its needs. It has an municipalities in the state of Orissa, covering a
inseparable position in the very social system. geographical area of 8.26 Sq.kms. with 4847
Business, as a subject of formal study residential houses. As per 1951 census, the
deserves attention and acquires importance in our population of the town was 7302, which increased
society because the largest number of people to 10380 in 1961, 13739 in 1971, 23519 in 1991
remain engaged in this branch of human activity. and to 27975 in 2001. Females constitute 47.36
But, despite its influence, adequate attention was percent of the town. The literate persons number
45
is 18782 of which females are 8196. The literacy of three factors of production, viz., land, labour
percentage of the town is 67.14 of which male and capital. These three factors constitute the
literacy is 71.89 percent and female literacy is edifice of business enterprises. Proper
61.87 percent. coordination of these three factors is the task of
Business is one of the main sources of the entrepreneur.
livelihood of the people of the town . More than Source of Finance
50 percent of the main workers are engaged in When a business entrepreneur seriously
trade and commerce, household industries, conceives the idea of setting up an enterprise, he
transport, manufacturing industries and other investigates the commercial success of the idea.
related services. Once he is satisfied with the feasibility of the
About the Sample project the next immediate step is to decide the
We have covered 157 business enterprises quantum of capital that would be needed and in
in our survey which belongs to 51 categories of what form to run the business. Finance is the
business. The largest number of units covered lifeblood of business and needed at every stage
belong to grocery shops (14) followed by gifts of the business. The sources of finance are broadly
and stationery (11) and pan shops (11). The next divided into two categories -internal and external.
business group in which a sizable number of units Internal finance is arranged by the entrepreneur
covered are cloth (10) and automobiles himself whereas external finance is obtained from
(8) followed by STD and Xerox (7) hardware financial institutions like banks, money lenders,
(7) and shoe stores (6). Then comes books and friends or relatives.
stationery (5) and hotels (4). A few units of In our survey, it is revealed that 71
medical stores, rice mills, utensil stores, vegetable respondents started their business with own capital
stores were also covered. Thus, the range of accounting for 45.22 percent whereas 55
business enterprises covered in the survey is wide respondents constituting 35 percent obtained it
and touches almost all the types business carried from external sources like banks. Thirty one
on in the town. respondents arranged their capital from internal
Methodology of Data Collection as well as external sources (19.75%)
Sources No. of Business Percentage
The data is collected through a of Finance Enterprises
questionnaire covering six aspects namely: Owned 71 45.22
(1) general information of the respondent,
Borrowed 55 35.03
(2) source of finance, (3) source of motivation,
(4) type of business, (5) satisfaction and Both 31 19.75
(6) suggestion to the youngsters. Five groups have Labour
been formed with five students in each group and
Availability of cheap, abundant and skilled
each group is guided by a teacher.
labour is the second important factor responsible
Requisites of Business for successful business. The following table reveals
Business enterprises, big or small, old or the number of persons employed by the surveyed
new, primitive or modern, require coordination enterprises:
46
Persons employed by the Enterprises businessmen are fearing to enter into the field for
No. of No. of Percentage this problem. The local municipality is constructing
Workers Enterprises stalls but the businessmen are complaining that
they are allotted to the outsiders at high cost. A
No workers 61 38.85 new entrepreneur is unable to afford these
1 -3 69 43.95 accommodations.
4-6 14 08.92 OTHER FACTORS
7- 9 04 02.55 0 1. Reasons for opting business
10 and above 09 05.73 The popular Sanskrit Sloka "Banijye Basati
Laxmi" amply shows the reason for entering
The above table reveals that around 31 business sector. Maintenance of livelihood by
percent enterprises are working without any earning profit is the driving force behind entry into
additional hand, around 44 percent enterprises business. Apart from this, there are other reasons
employed workers between 1 and 3 and around for opting business which are revealed in the
6 percent organizations employed persons more following table:
that 10. Most of the organizations expressed their
dissatisfaction over the availability of skilled Reasons for choosing business line
labour. Another important point they raised is the Reason No. of Percentage
non-availability of accounting assistants with enterprises
knowledge on VAT.
Livelihood 89 56.69
Accommodation
To earn more
Proper accommodation is another money 26 16.56
significant criteria for success of a business
enterprise. In our survey we came to know that Time pass 10 06.37
the businessmen are facing acute problems in Prestige 13 08.28
obtaining the accommodation. As there are no Ancestral 19 12.10
industrial estates, specific industrial areas, new
businessmen find it difficult to arrange a proper It is revealed in our survey that 56.69
accommodation for their enterprises. The percent of the entrepreneurs entered the field with
following table explains the status of ownership the objective of earning livelihood. Around 17
of the shops : percent opted it for earning more money whereas
12 percent started as it is ancestral. It is interesting
Ownership of Premises to say that 6 percent opted it for time pass and
No. of enterprises Percentage around 8 percent chose this for prestige sake.
Rented 123 78.34 02. Source of Motivation
Owned 034 21.66 What motivates a businessman to enter into
In our survey, most of the businessmen said business is revealed in the previous table and now
that they are unable to expand their business we are presenting the source of motivation or who
because of lack of proper accommodation. New motivated them in the following table:
47
Source No. of business Percentage are studied up to 10th class. Even technical degree
enterprises holders and post graduates are there in the
Self 118 75.17 business line.
Parents 35 22.29 04. Age of the Businessmen
Friends 2 01.27 In our study we inquired about the age of the

businessmen in the town and the following table
Relatives 2 01.27 reveals the present position :
The above table says that self-confidence Age No. of Percentage
is the primary source of motivation for entering Respondents
the business field. More than one third of the
respondents said that they are self-determined and Less than 20 04 02.55
self-starting in nature. Around 22 percent of the 21- 30 48 30.57
respondents said that their parents encouraged 31- 40 56 35.67
them to choose this field. 41- 50 29 18.47
03. Literacy Levels 51- 60 14 08.92
There is a belief that only uneducated 61-70 05 03.18
persons prefer business. The following table 70 & above 01 00.64
shows the literacy levels of the respondents:
Young persons dominate the business field
Level of No. of Percentage in Nabarangpur town. Most of our respondents
Educational Business are in the age group of 21 to 40. It is positive
Qualification Enterprises aspect that proves the preference of the
Illiterate 14 08.90 youngsters.
Up to 5th Class 11 07.05 05. Future Plan
Up to 10th Class 51 32.48 Without ambition no project runs
successfully for ever. To know whether business
Up to Intermediate 22 14.00
is a temporary career or dedicated line of
Up to Degree 48 30.57 livelihood opted by the respondents we have
Diploma holders 04 02.55 questioned respondents about their future plan and
the following table gives the details:
Technical Degree 04 02.55
holders Plan No. of Percentage
respondents
Post Graduates 03 01.90
Expansion 123 78.35
The table revealed that business is no more
an area suitable for uneducated persons. Switchover to 29 18.47
Nowadays, educated youngsters prefer business other business
as a career. In our respondents around 31 percent Closure of 05 03.18
of the respondents are graduates and 33 percent business
48
Most of the respondents are in favour of in our study, as majority of the respondents
expansion of their business where as only three are well educated. Even post graduates are
percent expressed their willingness to close their entering business field and quite satisfied
business. with the field.
Conclusion: ¨ Majority of the entrepreneurs expressed
¨ Capital is one of the most important satisfaction on the business carried on by
prerequisites to establish a business them. Only 3.18 percent of the respondents
enterprise. Normally, the capital for a said that they are going to close the business
business venture comes from own sources, in the near future.
relatives and friends and term loans from ¨ Even after running successful business
banks. In recent years, institutional lending enterprises, 35 percent of the respondents
has increased rapidly everywhere but in said that they will quit the business if proper
Nabarangpur town it seems not adequate employment is offered to them. This shows
as the data revealed that only 55 percent their inclination towards employment.
respondents received term loans from ¨ Regarding competition majority of the
banks. It may be due to lack of awareness respondents said that it is acute in the
about bank finance or the hindrances in present scenario. They are very much
obtaining the loans from these institutions. cautious about their competitors and
¨ Availability of abundant, cheap and skilled accordingly they are planning their
labour is essential for business enterprises. expansion.
Most of our respondents expressed their ¨ When we asked the question on the present
inability in the procurement of trained man position of transport network in the locality
power. People specifically pointed out that most of the respondents expressed their
they are not getting accounts assistants who dissatisfaction. They said that better
are well versed in VAT procedures. communication facilities are necessary for
¨ After capital and labour the third important further development of the town.
factor of production is land. In
Nabarangpur town it is one of the most ¨ Majority of the entrepreneurs said that
difficult tasks for the traders to find out a honesty and hard work are the two basic
suitable building for their business. The data qualities necessary for a successful business
revealed that 78.34 percent businessmen man.
are doing business in rented premises ¨ Regarding their advise to the youngsters,
whereas 21.66 percent possess owned we received a mixed reaction. About 60
one. Most of them opined that the percent said that they welcome the
Municipality authorities should construct youngsters to the business line whereas 40
more stalls and allot them in a simple, percent advised the youngsters not to opt
affordable and convenient method so that business as a career.
the local traders will get the benefit.
¨ The common belief that business is meant B.N. Biswal is the Head of the Department of Commerce
for the uneducated persons proved wrong in Nabarangpur College, Nabarangpur - 764 063
49
Education of Tribal Children in

Kandhamal District
Raghunath Rath
Education is a continuous process. It starts soon backwardness, social deprivation spreading of

after the birth of a child and ends on death. A education is regarded as one of the most effective
child starts learning as soon as he/she takes birth and forward-looking instruments (Patel : 1991
from his mother and gradually learns from his :26).
parents and the society around, as he/she gets While discussing growth of education in
older. tribal dominated Kandhamal district and the
Education, is a modern word, which is declining trend in education we have to make a
derived from the Latin word 'educase', means to careful study in the grass root level. The district
nourish, to cause to grow (Patel: 1991 : viii). of Kandhamal, formally known as Phulbani is a
Education also prevails in illiterate societies, where centrally located district of Orissa, which is at a
it is imparted orally and by mass behaviour. A higher altitude of 1100 Mtrs. The district is mainly
member of primitive society learns to earn his dominated by scheduled tribe and scheduled
livelihood, to do good works, to obey spiritual caste population. Scheduled tribe population
beings and also superstitions etc from the elders includes tribes like Kandha, Kutia Kandha,
of the society and bind by its laws and regulations. Kandhgouda, Kol, and Soura etc. and scheduled
These are the education for them. castes include mainly panas. Taking the majority
We the modern people do mean "education of the population as Kandhas the district has
as reading and writing. This is also true. By renamed as Kandhamal in 1994 instead of
modern education a person can able to increase Phulbani.
his knowledge and expand his vision and avail As per Census figures of 2001, the total
the fruits or development. Hence modern population of Kandhamal district is 6,48,201, out
education can play the role of "Catalyst" in bringing of which Scheduled Tribe population is 3,36,809
sea changes in the sphere of social, political, (51.98%) and Scheduled Caste population is
economic fields. One of the important reasons 1,09,506( 18.89%) of the total population.
for failure of development activities in the society Almost all the people of the district reside in hilly
by various developmental agendas is the forest areas frequently cut by streams and nalas
prevalence of acute illiteracy and ignorance, without any proper communication facilities. So
combined with superstitions among the rural it can be easily ascertained that most of the people
masses. Hence t o ward off economic maintained very simple and miserable life style
50
amid poverty and illiteracy. The rural population remarkable progress could be achieved till 1854.
of the district comes to 93.19% of the total, Hence the pay of teachers was enhanced from
population. Out of total geographical area of 7650 Rs.15/- to Rs.25/-per month, which could reap
Sq kms, 5709.83 Sq kms or 78.18% covered some good result.
by forest of the district. So the people are Instead of non-conducive attitude of
depending on forests to maintain their livelihood. Kandha inhabitants Government again set up four
Most of them are landless or marginal farmers primary scho ols in 1855-56 in present
hence comes under below poverty line. G.Udayagiri Tahasil area and kept them under
When we go back to the history of direct control of the Assistant Agent for the
education in Kandhamal district it is revealed that Meriah Agency, Russolkonda (present
seeds of education first planted in Balliguda Sub- Bhanjanagara). However, due to constant efforts
Division of the then undivided Ganjam district in by the Government and Missionary agencies,
1851 by Captain Mac Viccar as per decision good results could be noticed towards end of
taken by Henery Pottianger, who was in charge 1860 when the student strength reached up to
of Education Department under Madras 521. Noticeable student strength was marked in
Presidency in 1845. Captain Mac Viccar opened the schools at Sankarakhole, Purunagarh and
Brahmanpad as like as plains schools and the
three schools at different places of the sub-division.
teaching was satisfactory (Behera: 1984: 77).
The places were Kurmingia, Udayagiri and
Mahasinghi, but due to the prevalence of acute In between, 1855 to 1880 many primary
conservative mentality, non-cooperation from the schools were set up in Kandhamal Sub-Division.
nearby inhabitants, the initial steps for education At first stage schools were opened at Phulbani,
was a failure. Another reason of failure of Khajuripara, Titrapanga and Ratanga, which were
education is superstition among the Kandhas. upgraded to upper primary status in 1858. In due
Superstitions like "reading would make their eyes course of time the school at Ratanga was shifted
drop out of their sockets" etc. is also responsible to Bisipada and later it was converted in to Middle
for not spreading of education, so no remarkable Vernacular School. As the administrative
progress could be achieved within next 10 years headquarters was transferred to Phulbani from
(Behera : 1984:76). Bisipada, the said school was replaced to Phulbani
in 1904 and in 1916 it became M.E. school. In
Another reason is that British Education the year 1946 the said school had been upgraded
Policy was responsible for failure of attempts as Higher English School, which is now known
made by Madras Government. The medium of as A.J.O. High School. Angul District Gazetteer
instruction was in Oriya language and unqualified reveals that there were 12 upper primary schools
non-tribal teachers appointed from plains. in Kandhamal Sub-Division till 1908 with Kandha
Kandha students did not accept it due to teachers. But the medium of education was in
superstitious beliefs and other socio economic Oriya language. Hence to attract more Kandha
reasons in G. Udayagiri area. No students went students the then Sub-Divisional Officer Sir O.J.
to schools for reading. Hence schools run in Allenbach directed to prepare school books
miserable conditions. So British Authorities tried written in Roman scripts to express in Kui
to bring students forcibly by Police. Instead of language, the language spoken by Kandhas (Rath:
forcible measures taken by Government no 1993: 25).
51
Lower primary Schools were set up at year 1882, known as Hunter Commission. Lord
Subarnagiri, Kotagarh, Tumudibandha, Belaghar, Curzon organized an all India conference in the
Mundigarh, Budaguda, Balliguda, Barakhama, year 1901 at Simla to review the progress and to
Khamonkhole and Landagaon in 1889 and 1890 find out faults in education, which was the first
of Balliguda Sub-Division exclusively for ST and conference in India in the history of education.
SC students. Government also permitted to set The proceedings of the said conference were
up schools by private management. So the Roman published in 1904, which was known as Curzon's
Catholic and the Baptist Missionaries also Proclamation. That proclamation was an important
attempted to set up more schools to meet the document where emphasis was given regarding
requirement. Accordingly O.J. Millman, a Baptist Syllabus, appointment of teachers and monetary
Missionary set up a school in 1914 at Gudripadi assistance to schools and the importance of the
near G.Udayagiri (Boal : 1963: 61). provincial Governments to promote mass
As Government experienced, acute caste education. Administrative reformation law by
discrimination prevailing among the students as Montague Chelmsford was published in the year
well as parents, the Govt. was forced to set up 1919, where complete responsibility was laid
separate schools for ST and SC students. down for education on provincial Governments.
Statistical data reveals that there were 42 schools Hence Education Act of Madras Presidency was
in 1936-37 and 46 schools in 1941-42 meant framed in 1920. Accordingly financial assistance
for ST students, only one school for SC students was provided with to schools regularly and special
in 1941-42 in Kandhamal Sub-Division (Das: responsibility was also given to District Boards
1982: 151). and Local Boards. Again Hartog Commission was
set up in 1929 where emphasis was given to
A High School was set up at Tikabali in
promote mass education and to eradicate
the year 1939 and later shifted to G.Udayagiri in
wastage and stagnation problem.
the year 1944, which is still functioning and known
as Hubback High School. Christian Missionaries also took an
important role for development of education in
Lord Dalhousie, the then Viceroy of British
backward classes of this district. Schools have
India appointed Mr. Charles Wood who was the
been set up at Mandasaru, Katingia and at some
Chairman of Board of Controll on 19th July 1853
to review the progress of education in India and other places to educate the backward classes.
to suggest way-out for its improvement and to Missionaries also created awareness among the
frame new laws and regulations. Accordingly, he tribals towards education.
had submitted his report in the year 1854, which Schools were also set up for ST and SC
was known as Woods' Despatch. As such post students by Tribal Welfare department of
of Director of Public Instructions was created in Government of Orissa after independence. The
Bombay, Bengal and in Madras presidency dream of Hon'ble Thakar Bappa the first
exclusively to look after development of residential school of Orissa of Tribal Welfare
education. As suggested in Wood's Despatch, the Department was opened at Nuagam of
medium of instruction should be in mother Kandhamal district in the year 1947. Later many
language. schools were set up by welfare department in this
Another Commission was also set up for district. There are 11 and 4 High Schools and 6
reformation and development of education in the and 1 M.E. Schools from class I to VII for boys
52
and girls respectively exclusively for ST and SC teams to find out faults and remedies for
students. For primary education there are 9 development of education from time to time,
residential and 88 non-residential Sevashramas These also helped a lot to eliminate the lacuna
in the district under the management of Welfare and faults pointed out in those reports and to
Department in the year 2003-2004. In 2003-04 guide properly.
education year 3280 boys and 820 girls are Instead of several attempts taken since pre-
reading staying in hostels of residential schools, independence, it is a great regret that after 57,
while 6415 boys and 4415 girls are getting their years of independence, India could not achieve
education in non-residential schools managed by her 100 % literacy in Orissa, the poverty stricken
Welfare Department in the district (Giri Jhankar : state yet attained 63.61% literacy till 2001. Tribal
2004: 83). district of Orissa is far behind from the national
Though British Authorities, in pre- and state literacy rate. So is the fate of Kandhamal
independent period took steps to develop also. Tribal literacy rate with total literacy rate
education, it was quite inadequate. After from 1961 to 2001 as per census reports of
independence native Government attempted Kandhamal is as follows.
vigorously to educate all children within the age
group of 6 to 14 years as per provision laid down
Percentage of Literacy rate

Census Total Population Scheduled Tribe
Year Male Female Total Male Female Total
1961 N.A N.A. 17.69 N.A. N.A. 11.82
1971 N.A. N.A. 19.79 N.A. N.A. 12.37
1981 41.96 11.26 27.08 18.59 4.74 18.59
1991 54.68 19.82 37.03 38.32 9.21 27.49
2001 69.98 36.10 52.95 N.A. N.A. N.A.
(Source: District Statistical Hand Book, Kandhamal for the year 1997, 1999, 2001) .
in article 45 and 46 of the Indian Constitution. So The percentage of literacy of Kandhamal

time to time committees, commissions and district could not compete with state average due
working groups were set up by Government of to low-income level and backwardness of the
India to suggest ways to attain the goal. Those people.
committees, commissions and, working groups
This district having no industry at all and
recommended their well-thought, valuable
for which the main source of income of the people
suggestions for all-round development of
is cultivation and collection of forest products, the
education including Tribal and Backward classes.
literacy rate of tribal people is unsatisfactory. The
The Government of Orissa also organized above table shows that in five consecutive
workshops, seminars, survey and evaluation decades, the literacy rate of tribal has increased
53
by two and half times though the literacy rate of total population increased about four and half times.
Percentage of tribal women literacy is alarming.
The Present scenario of education of Kandhamal district could be judged from the following
tables.
Primary Education
Ratio
1996-97 1248 76816 38554 1984 546 2530 30.36
1997-98 1348 73863 40778 1943 602 2545 29.02
1998-99 1519 92048 47306 2714 844 3558 25.87
1999-00 1288 86545 46046 2058 637 2695 32.11
2000-01 1297 95163 53222 2069 642 2711 35.10
The above table indicates that in comparison with 1996-97, student enrolment increased by
18347 students in 2000-2001. Only 48 more Schools and 81 more teachers were appointed within
this period. Round about a primary school serves only 5.89 Sq kms and about 2 villages.
M.E. Education
Ratio
1996-97 212 25827 10614 758 176 934 27.65
1997-98 225 28150 9879 779 192 971 28.99
1998-99 244 16782 8905 515 167 682 24.60
1999-00 215 19036 8144 692 215 907 20.98
2000-01 217 22607 10195 705 224 929 24.33
About 12 villages are served by one M.E. School and cover an area of 35.25 Sq kms. In
comparison from 1996-97 to 2000-2001, student strength was decreased to 3220 and five posts of
teachers also fell vacant in 2000-2001 then 1996-97. Five more schools were established within this
period.
54
Secondary Education
Ratio
1996-97 76 15781 6585 591 148 739 21.35
1997-98 76 12216 5265 575 148 723 16.89
1998-99 82 14498 6208 602 151 753 19.25
1999-00 86 17317 7288 551 181 732 23.65
2000-01 88 18517 7873 567 166 733 25.26
(Source: District Statistical, Hand Book, Kandhamal for the year 1997, 1999, 2001)
In High School level, student enrollment increased with 2736 whereas six posts of teachers
remained vacant in 2000-2001 then in 1996-97. In this period 12 more schools were opened. A High
School serves about 29 villages and covers an area of 86.93 Sq kms.
College Education
Ratio
1996-97 11 4740 1060 161 33 194 24.43
1997-98 11 4892 1010 163 25 188 26.02
1998-99 11 4524 1066 163 25 188 24.06
1999-00 11 4757 1357 193 23 216 22.02
2000-01 11 4177 1228 189 26 215 19.42
There is no increase of Colleges during 1288 more tribal students and in college only 168
1996-97 to 2000-2001. Enrollment of 563 more tribal students were admitted during this
students were less in the year 2000-2001, but period.
21 posts of teachers were increased. A college It is ascertained from the above discussion
serves about 229 villages and covers an area of that tribal student enrollment in comparison to total
695.45 Sqkms. student enrollment is 55.92% in primary level,
During 2000-2001 in primary level 14668 45.09% in M.E.level, 45.51% in High School
more tribal students were enrolled than in 1996- level and 29.39% in College level in the year
97, but in M.E. level enrollment was less by 419 2000-2001. It seems that a big portion of tribal
tribal students within this period. In High Schools, students are not going to M.E. level from primary
55
level. Likewise most tribal students could not go drop out is on increasing trend which has been
for college education from high school level. This explained below in table and with the graphical
happens only for t he socio-economic representation.
backwardness of tribals. Statistical figures are Increase in Dropout
prepared basing on total district data. But the (From primary to college)
position is worst in the blocks like Kotagarh,
Tumudibandha, Daringbadi and Phiringia. There Year Primary College Dropout
is no college in Kotagarh and Khajuripada Blocks. 1996-97 76816 4740 72076
The family status and environment of tribals of
1997-98 73863 4892 68971
Kandhamal district does not permit their children
for education. Hence about 1/5 of the students of 1998-99 92048 4524 87524
primary level are enrolling in M.E. level and above 1999-00 86545 4757 81788
classes. Though in the year 2000-2001 enrollment
was 53222 in primary level, in College level only 2000-01 95163 4177 90986
1228 tribal students were enrolled. This shows There are certain important reasons for the
that in each level of school education drop out drop out problem in the district.
among the tribal students are numerous. The
The first and most important reason is the
following table and graph will indicate the decline
prevailing economic backwardness. We know
trend of enrolment.
that majority of the people in the district are poor
Enrolment of Students in various levels of Education
and who spend most of their times in doing small
Year Primary M.E. Secondary C oll eg e
level le v e l level level
jobs and marginal farming, where children are also
taking part. So financial difficulties create major
1996-97 67816 25827 15781 4740
hindrances for them for sending their children for
1997-98 73863 28150 12216 4892
studies.
1998-99 92048 16782 14498 4524
1999-00 86545 19036 17317 4757 Secondly, ignorance and superstitions play
a major set back for spread of education in the
2000-01 95163 22607 18517 4177
district. People of the remote area are superstitious
In my study I have already shown about and addicted to blind beliefs. So they do not
the slow growth of education and educational understand the value of education.
institutions in Kandhamal District as well as the
Thirdly, a vital reason for the drop out
increasing trend in establishing primary schools. I
problem of tribal students is their prevailing
have also seen that the educational institutions in
cultural process and life style, which hardly creates
primary level have increased resulting in increase
conducive environment for spreading of education.
in student's enrollment. The number of enrollment
Some festivals like Kedu-Laka or Buffalo
has decreased significantly in the later stages of
Sacrifice of Kandhas lasts for seven days and
higher education, which, in other hand speaks
Anaka Puja of Kutia Kandhas continues for about
about the increasing drop out problem.
a month in different villages of the area. The
Though the establishment of primary parents of the tribal students do not allow them
schools by Government and private agencies is to attend the school during that period. There are
quite noticeable in recent years the problem of no specific Government sanctioned holidays for
56
tribals of the state to be observed by the There are many other minor reasons for
educational institution unlike other communities drop out of tribal students. If this type of process
enjoy. Hence tribal students remain absent in the will continue and slow progress of literacy rate
school during their festive occasions, when there will prevail then the very purpose of fundamental
is no holiday. For this reason tribal students are right to education as per 86th amendment of
lagging behind in studies from their non-tribal Constitution will be defeated.
counterparts. The Constitution of India was introduced
Another point for the drop-out problem is in 1950 and there was a pious aim to educate all
health. The poverty of tribal people doesn't permit children from the age group of 6 to 14 years by
them to keep clean their home environment. They 1965. But it was failed. Government from time to
don't get nutritious food. So tribal children often time fixed a target year for achievement of 100%
fall ill. The parents could not treat them timely literacy. Again, the year 2000 was targeted to
due to economic scarcity. So they suffer for a achieve the goal. It was also unsuccessful. About
long period. During suffering the child remains 40 years have already been elapsed since 1965,
absent from school and after recovering from but the goal is not attained. We have to again wait
illness he loses his appetite for study. for at least 150 years to get cent percent result if
the progress of tribal education will continue at
However there are few other reasons,
the present rate.
which may also be responsible for drop-out
problem of tribal students. But it is a good sign that District Primary
Education Project assisted by the D.F.I.D. has
1. The medium of teaching i.e., Oriya language
been lunched in Kandhamal district since the year
is a foreign language for the tribal children.
2000. A survey was conducted in the year 2000
2. Non-tribal teachers are posted to schools to identify children from age group of 6 to 14 by
located at tribal areas, who are not aware the D.P.E.P. It reveals that there are 1,21,563
of tribal cultural values. (boys-64655 and girls-56908) children are
3. Absence of tribal cultural and regional coming within the category, out of which 30916
materials in class books. (boys-15024 and girls-15992) are not admitted
in to schools. There are no schools in 906 villages
4. The school environment does not attract till 2003 (Smaranika : 2003: 31). Steps are being
the tribal students. taken to set up schools and E.G.S. centres in
5. Some schools ate not having their own D.P.E.P. programme. Accordingly 57 primary
buildings. schools and 549 E.G.S. centres in the said
programme are set up till end of 2003. Sarba
6. Schools having single teacher.
Sikhya Abhiyana has also been introduced in the
7. Teachers in interior pockets neglecting in district from 15.08.2003. This programme will
duties. continue till 2010 while D.P.E.P. programme will
8. Irregular supply of mid-day meals. be ended by 2007 (Giri, Jhankara : 2004 :
92-93).
9. Lack of communication facility.
But we should bear in mind that the survey
10. Untimely supply of study materials. conducted previously is not the end of the goal.
57
Every year some children will attain the age of 6 11. All N.G.Os functioning in the district may
and will be added to the previous survey. They be involved in the process to educate all
should carefully be enumerated and should be children from 6 to 14 years.
taken in to account unless the very purpose of
12. Training at intervals to the Non-tribal
the above schemes will be defeated.
teachers about the tribal culture and
If D.P.E.P. and Sarba Sikhya Abhiyana language should be provided.
will be worked out whole-heartedly by every
These suggestions may be introduced in a
concerned it could be hoped that cent percent
war footing manner and all concerned from
achievement could be achieved by 2010 in the
parents, teachers to Heads of the district must
field of education in Kandhamal District.
work whole-heartedly to achieve cent percent
To achieve the goal at a short span of time education to all children from 6 to 14 years within
following recommendations may be adopted. a limited span of time and bring a sea change in
1. Study books must be prepared in tribal their society to bring the tribal in to the mainstream.
language up to upper primary level. I may sum up with words of Swami
2. Teachers from the same tribe and from the Vivekananda-
nearby villages if possible from the same The only service to be done for our lower
village should be appointed. classes is to give them education; to develop their
3. There must be a school in each village. lost individuality, give them ideas-that is the only
help they require and then the rest must follow as
4. More M.E. schools should be opened in
the effect. Ours is to put the chemicals together,
tribal areas.
crystallization comes in the law of nature . Now
5. Every school must be well-equipped with if the mountain cannot come to Mohammed,
all study materials. Mohammed must go to the mountain. If the poor
6. Tribal students must be supplied with study boy cannot come to education, education must
materials and dresses free of cost. go to him.
7. Pucca building must be provided to every This is true and has its relevance till the
school. present day, which may be followed strictly.
8. Teachers must be paid regularly with free Bibliography :
accommodation facility in school campus. 1. Behera, D., 1984 - Freedom Movement in the
State of Ghumsar in Orissa, Calcutta.
9. Responsibility may be laid down to teachers
for enrollment of all children from the age 2. Boal, Barbara M., 1963 - The churches in Kond
Hills - An Encounter with Animism. The National
group of 6 to 14 years and not allow Christian Council of India, Nagpur.
dropouts at any circumstances.
3. Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Orissa,
10. Each parent must be motivated to send Bhubaneswar. District Statistical Hand Book,
their children above six years to school or Kandhamal - For the Year 1997, 1999, 2001.
teachers and parents may be legally bound 4. Government of Orissa, 1983-Gazetteer of Boudh-
to do this task. Kandhamal District.
58
5. Government of Orissa, T.W. Department, 10. Panda, Om Prakash. 2003 - Sarba Janina
Bhubaneswar. 1994- Tribal Education in Orissa - Prathamika Sikshya O D.P.E.P. Kandhamal
in the context of Education for all by 2000 A.D. - Mahotsava Smaranika.
A Status paper.
11. Bishi, Khageswar. 2004-Kandhamal Sikshya
6. Patel, S. 1991- Tribal Education in India - Mittal Byabasthare Kalyan Bibhagara Bhumika - Giri
Publications, New Delhi. Jhankar.
7. Juneja, Nalini. 2004- Free and Compulsory 12. Rath, Raghunath, 1993-Kandha Sanskrutira
Education (Draft) Bill 2004 - The challenge for Analochita Adhyaya-Satta Sahitya Sansada,
the rural areas - Kurukshetra, Vol.52 No.11. Koraput.
8. Agragami - Derakumpa, Kandhamal - 2002 -
Adibashi Anchalare Prathamika Sikshya
Smaranika.
9. Das, Kali Kumar. 1982 - Odisare Prathamika
Sikshya - Odisa Rajya Pathya Pustaka Pranayana Raghunath Rath lives at Revenue Colony, Balliguda,
Sanstha, Bhubaneswar Kandhamal - 762103.
His Excellency the Governor of Orissa Shri Rameshwar Thakur after

inaugurating the "Odisa Utsav" going around the stalls at New Delhi.
Shri Raghuvansh Prasad Singh, Hon'ble Union Minister, Rural Development
and Shri Debasis Nayak, Minister, Informaiton & Public Relations, Sports
and Youth Services are also present.
59
Relevance of Folk Theatres in Modern Times

Indu Bhusan Kar
If we look to origin and evolution of folk theatre, Lilas, Daskathia, Geetabhinaya of

we have to admit that this theatrical tradition is Baisnab Pani,Mughal-tamsa, Prallhad natak,
interlinked with human civilization. In the Vedic Dandanatya, Ravanachhaya (puppet theatre),
period, people had developed potential artistic Desianata, Palas, Suanga and Chhau are
qualities like songs,dance and many religious considered to be the major forms which are still
rituals to express their emotions, hope and popular in rural areas on festival occasions. The
aspirations. Bharat Muni, the first dramatourgist royal patronage by Kings and Zamindars gave
codified the art of dramatourgy in his famous
moral boosting and incentive to folk artists to
treatise called 'Natyasastra'. In Orissa the
develop folk theatre troupes, but after abolition
historians and drama critics opine that "Arena
Theatre" was prevalent in the days of Emperor of Kings and Zamindars, these professional folk
Kharavela in 1st century A.D. Dhiren Das, a noted theatre troupes started languishing and some of
dramatourgist has deciphered the Hatigumpha them are at the verge of extinction. Many talented
inscriptions and categorically emphasized, that artists are deserting troupes and migrating to cities
'Ranigumpha' cave of Khandagiri was an arena for some others employments. There are instances
theatre where people were staging plays from time where some of the theatrical folk forms are no
immemorial in Orissa, the land of art and longer in vogue. In special occasion sporadic
architecture. Many folk forms have been efforts are made to stage folk play once in a year.
developed mainly out of celebrating religious and As for example in north Balasore district to which
social ceremonies. Songs and dances are integral I belong many Palas like Lalita-Pala, Karusana-
ingredients of these folk forms. Each folk form lila which were being performed earlier are no
had its particular community, same language, area longer staged frequently. Many troupes of
and way of life. We find some commonality in Jaleswar, Kamarda, Bhogorai Deula, Baliapal and
each form. Religious movements like Saivism, Chandaneswar of Balasore district have vanished
Hinduism, Jainism and Vaishnavism have shaped
into oblivion. Palas and Lilas are no longer in
thematic contents of these folk forms. The
vogue due to impact of electronic media and
musicality is one of the greatest characteristics of
these folk dramas. The musical instruments deteriorating financial condition of traditional folk
developed indigenously are peculiar features of theatrical troupes. Research scholars have
these folk plays. The instrument used in Daskathia restored many manuscripts of these Palas and Lilas
are different from Lilas of Chhaus. in these areas of north Balasore of Orissa.
60
Dr. Kailas Pattanaik, Dept. of Oriya of enriched modern drama with folk elements.
Viswa Bharati University undertook an in-depth Drama was treated by Brecht a great pulpit of
study of folk form of Lalita Pala in Balasore awakening people's mind. Once Brecht declared
district which has been published in 'Konark' " I wanted to take the principle that it was not just
(Oriya journal of Orissa Sahitya Academi Vol- a matter of interpreting the world but of changing
97, p - 78,Yr-1995). Now time has come to make it, and apply that to the theatre". This Brechtina
a complete survey of all such rural folk theatre dramatic theory and practice gave new shape to
troupes and identify causes of decay and decline epic form of theatre. Many new dramatists after
of the professional theatre troupes. The same is Second World War were influenced by this
the pitiable condition of folk theatre form of Brechtian dramatic theory. The new experiments
'Mughal-tamsa' of Bhadrak, though it was once were made to blend the folk elements with
enjoyed and accepted by the people as the most modern innovation in order to attract greater
thrilling and popular folk form. audience. Having realizing the importance of the
Ideas and taste of the people are changing rich folk theatre Martin Esslin, a renowned drama
fast with march of the time. The popularization of critic's message on world theater day, on 27th
radio, TV and VCR as source of entertainment March 1989, is pertinent irrespective of region,
has diminished the loyalty of the people towards race and religion. In the words of Martin Esslin-
the folk plays. Now aggressive consumerism has "In an age where, the world is flooded by a deluge
mesmerized the people's mind due to advent of of cheap commercially motivated material on
electornic media. At this stage one may ask the television, the live theatre, the guardian of
question of utility and relevance of reviving the traditions and individuality of cultures, threatened
traditional multiple streams of folk plays when, by this avalanche of homogenized triviality and
cinema and TV are giving enough entertainment become more vital to the continued richness and
to the people. The folk drama has got twin variety of human culture than ever before in the
purposes of both entertainment and education. history of mankind" (Published in the 'Canplay' :
Folk theatre has contributed immensely for a magazine of Canadian playwrights associations
creating social consciousness. As for example in Vol-6, No2, April 1989).
Orissa the 'Geetinatya' of Baisnaba Pani played Kapila Vatsyayan a great authority on
greater role spearheading patriotic fervour among performing art has analyzed various forms of
the people during freedom-movement of India. Indian folk plays in her book 'Traditional Indian
Similarly other folk dramas like Prahallad natak, theatre Multiple streams. She has opined that there
Danda, Palas have also enriched people's mind is great importance in reviving. Indian folk pays
with religious virtues. But vulgarization of films, as these plays have contemporary relevance. In
TV serials with overdose of sex and violence are her said book 'Traditional Indian theatre', she
polluting people's mind with main objective of observed "The Yatra forms are an important
giving sensuous pleasure. This new trend in the branch of the parent tree of Indian literatures,
field of entertainment industry causes immense languages and theatre forms. Its survivals appear
sociological hazards. On the other hand, the so- to have thrown seeds, which have given modern
called absurd and experimental plays are creating Bengali theatre a new direction. Like the Bhavai
boredom among the audience. After the Second and the Tamasa it has provided an Indian format
World War the Epic plays of 'Bertold Brecht' to avant-garde theatre, possibly this renowned
61
interest in Yatra was conditioned by the advent garde drama. The critic and the spectators were
of a new form of epic theatre from Europe. Be as charmed and praised the experiment of Habib
it may, the European influence generated an Tanvir. This is a classic example of relevance and
interest in national traditions and this has been a impotence of folk plays, because in his play there
return educational journey home-ward for the was proper assimilation of elements-both the
modern theatre of India" (Traditional Indian traditional and the modern. Girish Karnad, a
theatre-page 146, published by NBT, New Delhi, Gyanapitha award winner and a celebrated actor
Ist edition 1980). So it is to be admitted that folk dramatist, has also made similar experiment with
plays of India, have played a great role in shaping folk element in his play 'Haybadan' which has
avant grade plays. become a popular play among the people.
Let us have a review of impact of It is now necessary to examine the impact
experiments of blending rich of folk element with of folk theatre on modern Oriya plays and to what
modern Indian palys of three renowned extent playwright have been successful in
playwrights viz; Vijoy Tendulkar, Habib Tanvir and assimilation of folk elements in avant-garde Oriya
Girish Karnad. Vijoy Tendulkar, a well-known drama. Let us evaluate this trend of
dramatist wrote a Marathi play-'Ghasiram experimentation in Oriya modern drama.
Kotwal'. When this play was staged, it charmed
the audience, as proper blending of Marathi folk In Orissa, Manoranjan Das, veteran
music, satire and chorus songs with thematic playwright in his play 'Katha Ghoda' and 'Nandika
contents of the play gave rich entertainment to Kesari', Bijoy Mishra's Jane raja thile', Ramesh
the audience with a dramatic message. This play Panigrahi's 'Mahanatak', Subodha Pattanaik's
was translated into Hindi and a repertory troupe 'Yethu ante', Rati Mishra's 'Abatar', All these
travelled 'with this play to Europe to stage this modern dramas have used Oriya folk elements
play in European cities-like Berlin and London. and also certain forms of folk drama for
This play could enthrall the European audiences. enrichment of the dramatic tradition with a view
'Guardian', the widely circulated journal, praised to attract larger audience. In the words of Niladri
that this Indian play could satisfy the twin Bhusan Harichandan, a dramatist "the playwrights
parameters of good play-which is aesthetic have been successful in bringing plays nearer to
pleasure with a forceful message. 'Guardian' the the audience through this new style. He further
prestigious journal of England remarked that in said- "The avant garde or mordernist Oriya drama
comparing with the modern Indian play, the of today is enriched with an assimilation of
European play looks like a broken mirror. This elements both traditional and the modern. The
high appraisal of success prompted other addition of the forms of enriched with an
playwrights of India to make such experiments of assimilation of elements both traditional and the
blending folk element skillfully with modern modern. The addition of the forms of various
themes. Habib Tanvir the renowned director and Oriya folk dramas even to this combination marks
actor made in-depth study of Chhatisgarh music it off as different from similar developments in
of Madhya Pradesh and dance and he used it in other parts of India" (Aspect of Oriya drama, P-
his play-'Charan Das chor.' Once when this play 131). But some critics observe that this
was played at Paris, the noted directors from experiment is not successful but there are plays
London flew to Paris to witness this Indian avant which have succeeded in this experiment and got
62
audience's clapping. I myself have taken may argue that these are old, archaic, religious
audience's poll and came to conclusion that the and rustic. They are to be rejected on the ground
majority and the spectators have liked Bijoy of modern secularism and they openly utter-"let
Mishra's "Jane raja thile", Subodha Pattanaik's them die, let folk artist perish". We have got VCR,
'Yethu ante' Rati Mishra's "Avatar". These modern films, enough entertainment in 24 hours channels.
Oriya plays have been quite successful because I think, this ultra modernist's negative attitude will
of the proper blending of the folk elements. I am cause immense harm to growth of humanistic
of firm opinion the richness of Oriya folk forms culture for all-round development of human
should be preserved and documented. Patronage personality. So it is high time that we should not
should be given to establish professional troupes allow further vulgarization of Indian culture by
in Orissa. The steps taken in this direction in other inertness, indifference and indolence. We should
states like Bengal, Andhra, Karnatak are really not be swayed away by the lures of electronic
praiseworthy. In Karnatak more than a dozen folk media. We the art-loving Indians are now facing
research institutions have been established by challenges of assault on our language, literature
Government Department of culture. There the and culture due to westernized culture. Letus not
Govt. has taken measures to educate and develop waste time only in theoretical debate as to whether
new generation of artists. But in many states the an art form is folk, traditional, classical and
development of folk theatre is neglected. It is pity modern. Let us understand and diversify cultural
that there are some ultra modernists in tradition, which is to be reflected in the
bureaucracy those who do not favour the contemporary theatre.
preservation, documentation and promotion of
folk theatre.
Now-a-days it has been accepted by
scholars in performing art that there is great
relevance in studying, knowing and preserving Indu Bhusan Kar is the Chairman, Advanced Centre for
these treasure of our Indian folk theatres. Some Indological Studies, Bhubaneswar.
Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik at

the birth anniversary celebration of Maharaja
Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev at
Jayadev Bhawan on 27.4.2006. Shri Surjya
Narayan Patro, Minister, Energy, Tourism and
Information Technology is also present.
63
AUCC Bank Laid to Produce Successful

Entrepreneurs
Choudhury B.K. Das
The strategic intervention of AUCC Bank to rupees. The Bank has not only financed but also
promote Horticulture and pisciculture in Angul facilitated to raise to the occasion for self-sufficient
and Dhenkanal District has produced many and dignity. Mr. Sahu is supplying all types of
successful entrepreneurs."APCA Farm" of fish seeds to the farmer of the State as well as
Nakchi, at Kishore Nagar Block of Angul District outside the State. He also started pisciculture in
is the biggest "Lichi" orchard in private sector of Derjang Medium Irrigation Project by taking 5
the State and has been financed by AUCC Bank. years lease. AUCC Bank has laid him to become
Smt. Sakuntala Sahu the most successful
the owner of the farm entrepreneurs in
has been emerged as pisciculture sector in
one of the successful the State.
women entrepreneurs.
Angul -
She is not only earning
Dhenkanal region has
approximately 7 lakh
rupees annually but also been emerged as one
living peacefully in the of the important growth
green environment. centres due to
Angul UCC Bank has economic intervention
financed around 66 of AUCC Bank with
lakhs rupees to nine 194 crores rupees in
farmers under the last financial year in
"National Horticulture Scheme". Agriculture, Horticulture and Pisciculture etc. The
successful Cooperative movement of AUCC
Mr. Brajabandhu Sahu, a small farmer of Bank has been recognized and it has been selected
village Turanga of Angul was often dreaming to as the best Central Co-operative Bank of the
compete with the industrial businessmen around State.
him. Today his dream became true. Now he is
the owner of the biggest hatchery centre of the AUCC Bank being selected as the best
State in private sector. Mr. Sahu is now the owner Central Cooperative Bank of Orissa by
of the biggest hatchery and pisciculture centre of NABARD has been awarded by Sj. P.
the State with the AUCC Bank finance of 35 lakh Chidambaram, Hon'ble Finance Minister, Govt.
64
of Vegetable and Fruit Producer's Marketing Co-

operatives for cost effective production and
market linkages.
The Bank's intervention in the social
sector by providing 3 crores 76 lakh rupees
financial assistance to around twenty thousands
women of around 18 hundred SHG groups and
empowering 40 thousands women by mobilizing
136 lakh rupees deposit is widely discussed among
the mass.
As parts of its social responsibility, the
of India on 13.9.2005, at New Delhi, by Sri staff of the AUCC Bank and its successful
Naveen Patnaik, Hon'ble Chief Minister, Orissa entrepreneurs has undertaken vario us
in State level "Krushak Samabesh" on 20.11.2005 development activities at famous tourist spots viz.
organised by Orissa State Co-operative Bank and Deulajhari and Kapilash.
by Hon'ble Finance Minister Sri Prafulla Chandra Mr. Suresh Kumar Vashishth, IAS
Ghadei on 19.11.2005 on the occasion of Collector and District Magistrate and MIC of the
celebration of 52nd All India Cooperative Week Bank has stressed upon continuous and
at the state level. sustainable efforts of the Bank to promote
Besides, our Guneibil SCS under successful entrepreneurs in Angul and Dhenkanal
Dhenkanal District is adjudged as the best Service District.
Cooperative Society in the State and is awarded
with shield by Smt. Surama Padhy, Hon'ble
Minister, Cooperation on 19.11.2005 at the state
level function. AUCC Bank has promoted 4 nos Choudhury B.K. Das is the A.G.M, O.S.C.B.
65
Hitherto Unknown Stone

Inscriptions of West Orissa
S.S. Panda
As evidenced from stone inscriptions, the in the Batuka Bhairava form and is found to be
Bhairava worship was prevelent in the upper stark naked, his linga and kosa seen to be
Mahanadi valley of Orissa atleast from the 1st hanging downwards, four-handed, holding a long
century A.D. The discovery of a two-lined trisula in his lower right hand, the bottom portion
inscription on the pedestal of a standing image of of it resting near his right foot. The eyes of this
furious looking Batuka Bhairava at Junagad in the image is round, having an uncanny look with side-
Kalahandi district by this tusks coming out from both
scholar in April, 1983 corners of his mouth. This
throws new light on the cult figure has very long ears, flat
of Bhairava. It is somewhat nose and a big garland of
astounding that Pandit Satya skulls apart from a small
Narayan Rajagur u has necklace hanging round his
deciphered this inscription neck. His jatas are forming
to be written in the Pali a mandala in the shape of a
Prakrit in around 1st flat mukuta. It is of the
century A.D. On the broken height of three feet and is
pedestal of another Bhairava carved on a square pedestal
image of around six feet in Patalesvara Temple Inscription where the two-lined
height, found in the Banka Budhikomna, Dist. Nuapada inscription in Pali Prakrit
Paik Pada of Junagad town, occurs.
the last letter of an inscription Ra is seen to be The learned epigraphist late Pandit Satya
engraved. Such Ra alphabet was used during Narayan Rajaguru has rendered the reading of
the period from the 4th to 8th century A.D. this inscription as "Om Divyadhara (1st line )
Another short stone inscription of the 8th century Jayapataraja Dhavasa (2nd line)" in Prakrit
A.D., found in the Dhavalesvara Siva temple at language. He thinks the 2nd line to be read as
Mohangiri, also in the Kalahandi district, has been "Jayapatarajadhruvasya" in Sanskrit language
deciphered as Vyuha Bhairava by Pandit S.N. and place it in around 1st century A.D.
1
Rajaguru. palaeograplically. Pandit Dr. Satya Narayan
The image of Bhairava found in the back Rajaguru's personal correspondence with this
side of the Panchayat Samiti office at Junagad is writer dated 27th July, 1986 from
66
2
Paralakhemundi. One sword, semi-precious stones, one
A seal matrix gold stylus, a red coloured stone seal bearing the
has been name Dhimatiswara engraved on it in the box-
unearthed from headed Brahmi characters of the 5th century
the Budhigad A.D. and one iron Yupa Stambha were
sit e, near discovered from the temple complex of the
Madanpur second tier during excavations. Dr. Sahu has
Amath Inscription, No.1, Kalahandi
village of considered the entire site to be places of worship
District
M.Rampur as well as places of residence and general
tahasil area of Kalahandi district. It is engraved congregation. He further thinks this to be a Saiva
on a diamond-shaped pendant made of red monastery with leanings to Saivism.
Jasper. It is a finely polished seal, bearing a floral The box-headed character of the Brahmi
motif in its proximal end. The legend in reverse is inscription found on the pedestal of the
written in the mixed scripts of the 2nd century Simhavahini Durga image has been deciphered
3
A.D. in the Kharoshti and Brahmi letters. by Dr. Sahu as Maheswari Bhavadaa and of
Learned epigraphist B.N. Mukherjee, the fifth centuryA.D. palaeographically. Dr. Sahu
deciphering this two-lined inscription puts forth has further ascribed the temple ruins of this place
his views that it is written in Prakrit as "Jana to the Nala rulers of Puskhari and the temple of
dhapeta", the Sanskrit version of which is " goddess Durga to king Bhavadatta Varman. He
Yajna Sthapeyita" (English Translation : Founder has given the view that the Sarabhapuriya kings
or Establisher of Sacrifices). Pradeep Mohanty of the Amararyakula were followers of the
and Baba Mishra, the discoverers of this seal Vaisnava faith. But the Nala kings of Puskhari
matrix think that it belonged to a person who was axcept the last ruler Skanda Varman were great
probably a patron of Brahmanic sacrifices and as patrons of Saivism. Another learned epigraphist
there is a perforation in the top-portion of this Pandit Satyanarayan Rajguru reads it as
matrix it was in all probability used as a pendant Maheswari Bhabeidam , means From This
in a string garland and was worn by the owner, Grows Maheswari and dates it to the 6th century
4
who used it whenever required. A.D.
A four-handed Simhavahini Durga in In June 1991, a stone slab bearing an
archer s pose (alidha posture) in the Sanctum inscription was unearthed during excavation of a
Sanctorium (garbhagriha) and one porch were mound in the same Maraguda valley. This
discovered during excavation at Maraguda valley inscription has been deciphered as "Guna Lopa
in Nuapada district. Dve" by t he
Further excavations in the second n o t e d
fortnight of July, 1983 brought to light four epigraphist late
residential rooms including a dormitory in the Dr. Sat ya
second tier and five residential rooms in the third Narayan
tier of the Trisul mound, both to the north of the R a ja g u r u ,
temple. These buildings have been taken by which means
excavation director Dr. N.K. Sahu as the "two Gunas are
residences of the Acharyas. to be off." In Amath Inscription, No.2, Kalahandi
District
the views of
67
6
Dr. Rajaguru, "a Gupta has dated it to the 5th century A.D. He
man who may further thinks that as this type of curved danda,
wo rship t he kundi-type kamandalu and beaded rosary are
g o d d e s s depicted in the Saiva sculptures of Vakataka
(Mahes vari) period found in the Vidarbha region, the seal
should abolish motifs might have been influenced by the
two gunas Vakataka art. This type of sprinkler pots of red
(qualities) out of polished ware have been found during excavation
three gunas undertaken at Sirpur and Malhar in the adjacent
(Satva, Raja and Chhattisgarh region. The rosary is made of ten
Tama). Tho se beads (nine normal and one Sumeru bead, which
who possess is slightly bigger in size and placed on the top right
Vaidyanath Inscription,
Sonepur District
Satva-guna corner). The kundi-type water pot and rosary
should give up the are shown as attributes in a number of icons of
other two gunas. Similarly those who has Raja- Siva. As Brahmana and Brahmani are epithets of
guna or Tama-guna, if he wishes power or Siva and his consort Durga (which was the Indian
strength for Marana, Uccatana etc., she (the adoption of the goddess Mana and which
goddess) should be worshipped by abolishing the subsequently merged in the image of Parvati),
other two gunas respectively. (Vide Mahesvari Gupta has therefore put forth his view that
Tantra). Rajaguru further thinks that it is a Sutra Brahmana was a Saivite and so is his seal. Gupta
of Tantric philosophy. Mantra Mahodadhi by has brought to the attention of scholars a very
5
Mahidhara may be reffered in this matter. interesting fact that, one of the gold coins (Aureus)
The Brahmanisation of the upper of the Roman emperor Julius Caesar ( 31 B.C-
Mahanadi valley started right in the early centuries 14 A.D.) found in Chanda (Chandrapur) district
of the Christian era, but with a major thrust to of the Vidarbha region, bears three exactly similar
Saivism and Saktism, as because this area was divices, and most probably being inspired by the
predominantly inhabited by the tribals. The design of the Roman coin, Brahmana might have
inscribed Bhairava image of Junagad dated to the devised his seal, although the time gap between
Ist century A.D. is a clear evidence of existence the Roman coin and this seal is more than 500
of such riligious beliefs. years (1st century B.C. to 5th century A.D.
A red-coloured polished stone seal This seal
bearing a legend in the box-headed Brahmi was discovered in
characters consisting of four letters in the lower the Maraguda valley
portion and above the inscription having the of Nuapada district
engraved motifs of three devices, i.e. a high- during surface
necked oblong pot with a sprout on the left exploration and
(kundi), a curved stick (danda) and a beaded presented to the
rosary ( aksamala or Rudraksamala). While S a mba lp u r
deciphering the inscription on the seal as ' University museum.
Brahmanasya', meaning "the seal belongs to Brahamana might be
Brahmana", learned scholar Chandra Shekhar an Acharya of the Belkhandi Inscription
68
archaeological site of Belkhandi in Kalahandi

district and at present kept in the Bhawanipatna
Museum. It has been deciphered as (1st line)
Pratyanta Purusa, (2nd line) Sri Vikara deva,
(3rd line) ha by the epigraphist of Orissa State
"Mahesvari Bhabeidam" Maraguda, Dist.- Nuapada
Museum Miss Bharati Pal. She is of the view that
Saiva monestery in which another Saivacharya palaeographically the scripts of this inscription can
named Dhimatisvara was functioning to propagete be dated to circa 8th century A.D.
Saivism in this region of anciant Daksina Kosala She has deciphered another short two-
in the 5th century A.D. lined fragmentary inscription from Belkhandi, now
An oval shaped stone seal found at in the Bhawanipatna Museum as (1st line)
Nehena village is in the private possession of Shri tavadaksana (2nd line) Sri Canda and dates it to
Jitamitra Singh Deo of Khariar. The seal bear the 9th century AD. It seems it to the 9th century
three emblems in the upper half portion, i.e a A.D. Belkhandi site was already famous for the
crouching bull facing to the proper right side and Saptamatrika temple and another temple
in front of it two symbols, one trident and and a dedicated to Uma Mahesvara, as evidenced from
danda. In the lower half portion a legend in the the archaeological finding.
box-headed Brahmi scripts of the 6th century In 1946-47, S.N. Rajaguru examined yet
A.D. has been inscribed, which reads another broken stone inscription, found that
"Saivaramesvarasya" (It belongs to Saiva Belkhandi by Kedar Nath Mahapatra during
Ramesvara). In all probabality the seal was used excavation and come to know from the reading
by a Saiva Acharya named Ramesvara. of the said inscription that the locality was called
A village named Aksarsila is situated on "Gouraveni - Tata Visaya". From this he
the left bank of river Brahmani at a distance of understands that the ancient name of the river Utei
8
around 24 miles (38 kms) from Deogarh and was Gouraveni.
around 15 miles (24 kms) from Bonaigarh on the Two door jambs of a temple have been
7
old Bamra - Bonai road. There is a huge shifted from Amath village to the Kalahandi
monolithic rocky elevation in a paddy field to the District Museum at Bhawani Patna. On both
south-west of the village, which comes under the pillars, there are three short inscriptions, two on
Barkot Panchayat Samiti area of Deogarh one of it and one on the other. Two short
district at present. The reputed epigraphist Dr. inscriptions, deeply executed on one of these
Snigdha Tripathy has deciphered this inscription Pillars have been deciphered by late Prof. D.C.
as "Sri Bicitra Bhusanaya" and has ascribed it to Sircar, the internationally reputed epigraphist,
the last part of the 7th century A.D. or early part
of the 8th century A.D. But at the present state of
our knowledge it cannot be said definitely as to
who Sri Bicitrabhusana was and why he inscribed
his name on this monolithic rock.
A stone slab having a three-lined short
inscription has been shifted from t he Sarsara Inscription, Sundargarh Dist.No.1
69
A Panchayatana temple complex was

brought to limelight by this scholar in June, 1984.
The main central temple is of triratha order and
surrounded by four subsidiary temples of the
Sarsara Inscription, Sundargarh Dist.No.2
triratha order. The small temple in the north-west
being rquested by this scholar through side of the central shrine is having a short
correspondence. He has read the five lettered inscription on its southern outer wall. This three-
fragmentary inscription as "Rdhya Kulamula" and lettered inscription has been deliphered as "3
was of the view that this "Rdhya" can be taken as Bhaga" by the eminent epigraphist Pandit
the remnant of an epithet of the personal name Satyanarayan Rajaguru and from palaeographical
that follows. Another short inscription which is in point of view these script have been attributed to
12
cursive writing has been deciphered as circa 9th century A.D. by Dr. S.N. Rajaguru.
"Mulacanda". He has assigncd both these The terminology " 3 Bhaga" might be indicating
inscriptions to the 8th-9th century A.D. on "three architectural divisions" or "tri -ratha" design
9
palaeographical ground. of this ancient temple, locally known as
13
A three-lined inscription is found inscribed Kosalesvara temple.
on a huge stone beam, at present lying on the The antarala (portico) roof of a stone
ground near the Siva temple at Deypur temple is found amidst temple ruins at Sarsara
(Kalampur) in Kalahandi district. This inscription near Banei in Sundargarh district. The proper left
has been deciphered as (1st line)...d edge of this roof slab is having an inscription in
Dharmmadhirasya (2nd line)... sa....bhumi (mi) the 10th-11th century proto-Nagari characters.
- gra......ca...(3rd line)sa (or na) (devayatana) Another inscription is found inscribed on the
parikrama" by the learned epigraphist Dr.(Smt.) pedestal of an image at the same site, which can
Snigdha Tripathy, who thinks that it is written in be also dated to t he same period
the nail-headed characters of the 8th-9th century palaeographically. Learned epigraphist Dr.
14
A.D. Snigdha Tripathy has deciphesed the inscription
Two short inscriptions are found on the antarala roof-edge as "Lahati (?) dara -
inscribed, on the beam of the pillars supporting Prakhara." The pedestal inscription has been
the roof of the Jagamohana of the Kosalesvara read by her as "Pradipa dadhatt (?) bha Mahe."
temple at Baidyanath in Sonepur district and the One five -lined inscription is found
other in the side of a carving of eight-petalled inscribed on the left side of the sanctum doorway
flower on a loose stone block. The first inscription of the Patalesvara temple at Budhikomna in
reads 'Deviye (ta)' and the second, "Siddham Nuapada district. This inscription was damaged
Ranaka Sri (Dha) ndhokasya" and by the sculptors as they were trying to remove
palaeographically can be placed in the second half lime and plaster from this part of the doorway
10
on the 9th or first half of the 10th century A.D. with the help of their chisels during restoration
Although it is very difficult to identify Ranaka work done by the State Archaeology around
(Dha)ndhoka whose name occurs in the short 1979. The damage done is irrepairable. Now only
inscription, it is apparent that he was a great some twenty characters exist. (1st Line) Rasri.....
devotee of the Lord and attained perfection or (2nd Line) Bala prasada.... (3rd
11
Siddha. Line).....Na.........Dha 2 Ga...........II-II (Stop
70
sign) (4th Line) Na........A.....Ratha (5th Mahanadi at Sonepur and the short inscription
Line)....... Kulena. This inscription has been on the monolithic rock in the river bed of
placed palaeographically in the 10th-11th century Mahanadi at Binka are yet to be deciphesed,
A.D. by Pandit Satya Narayan Rajaguru, who which may through new light on the history of this
has deciphered this inscription being requested region.
15
by this scholar. References :
A three-lined inscription in the proto- 1. The Journal of the Kalinga Historical Research
Oriya characters of the 16th century A.D. has Society, Vols. II & III, 1950, pp.246-247 ff.
been inscribed in the lower half of a rectangular 2. Orissa Review, Vol.XLV, No.5, December 1988, p.8.
memorial Hero Stone, which is at present kept in 3. Pradeep Mohanty and Baba Mishra, 'Early Historic
the Talbandh Para of Junagad town in Kalahandi Kalahandi', in 'Orissa : Revisited', edited by
Pratapaditya Pal, Marg publication, Mumbai, 2001,
district. It has been deciphered by learned
p.25.
epigraphist Dr. Snigdha Tripathy as (1st Line) Sri
4. Letter dated 7th April, 1988 of Shri S.N. Rajaguru
Durga (or Duva) dasa gupta (?) chara (2nd to this scholar from Bhubaneswar.
Line)....... Je(ye)... devarika samastasa - (3rd 5. Orissa Review, No.LX, Nos.2 & 3, September-
Line) marpichi (se) - mrta senapati (?). As this October 2005, p.106.
figure is in profile in the fighting posture carrying 6. Chandra Sekhar Gupta, "A Seal of Brahmana from
a sword and a shield it seems that the Orissa", in "Krsna Pratibha : Prof. K.C. Panigrahi
"Guptachara" (spy) of a foreign country was commemoration Volume, edited by H.C. Das,
killed, in whose memorial the Hero Stone was S.Tripathy, B.K. Rath, Sandeep Prakashan, Delhi,
1994, Vol.I, pp.47-53 ff.
erected subsequently. The characters of the
7. J.K.H.R.S., Vol.I, No.2, September, 1946, pp.165-171
inscription exhibit the development of Oriya scripts
ff.
in the 16th century A.D. and prove that Oriya
8. J.K.H.R.S., Vol.II, Nos.2 & 3, September-December,
scripts developed in this region of south-west 1947, pp.110.
Orissa, than under the occupation of the 9. Prof. D.C. Sircar's Personal Corrospondence dated
Nagavamsi kings of Kalahandi. 9th September, 1984 with this scholar.
From a village named Dumerbahal one 10. Letter No.19/85-580, dated 26th July, 1985 of the
Hero Stone having a proto-Oriya inscription on Director, Epigraphy, Archaeological Survey of
India, Mysore to this scholar.
the pedestal has been collected by the famous
11. Orissa Review, Vol.XLIII, No.12, December, 1987,
historian Mr. J.P. Singh Deo of Khariar and at p.18.
present kept in the Khariar Museum. Being 12. Letter dated 13th June, 1986 of Shri S.N. Rajaguru
requested by this writer, the learned epigraphist to this writor from Parlakhemundi.
16
Dr.Satya Narayan Rajaguru has deciphered it 13. Orissa Review, Vol.XLIII, No.3, October, 1986, p.49.
as Da (Du) ra Rogare (Probably the death of 14. The Orissa Historical Research Journal, Vol.XLVI,
this hero occured due to some incurable desease) No.1, 2005, p.60.
and assign it palaeographically to the 16th century 15. OHRJ, Vol.XXXV, Nos.3 & 4, 1989, p.121.
A.D. 16. Orissa Review, Vol.XLVI, Nos.7 & 8, February-
Many long stone inscriptions of Western March, 1990, p.24.
Orissa like the one on the monolithic rock
Sasanka Sekhar Panda lives at VR-23, Unit-6,
(Lankesvari Pitha) in the rock bed of river Bhubaneswar.
71
The Literary Heritage of Sonepur
Dr. Pabitra Mohan Nayak
Sonepur lying nestled in a cosy bower surrounded Jalandharippa, Raja of Lanka (Sonepur), who
by long lines of sky-blue, forest crowned cliffs was one of the exponents of the Natha cult was
forming pre-eminently the base of a triangular plot, the propounder of Sahajayana Buddhism whose
washed by the perennial flow of the Mahanadi Advayasiddhi is the medieval form of Acharya
and river Tel is a veritable poet s paradise. In the Rajanish s modern method of Yogic practices
words of Sir Richard Temple: from sex to salvation. The mystic poetry of the
A real variety to the scene was afforded Natha cult which flourished from 8th to 11th
whenever caught the golden colours of the eastern century largely influenced the Panchasakha
sky, the rapids made a merry noise as they hurried literature of Jagannath, Balarama, Yasowanta,
along. The effect of the rocks was doubled by Achuyta and Ananta. The Natha literature of
the reflections of teak trees, laden with their yellow Sonepur seems to have set the tone and temper
blossoms, hung over the margin of the stream. of the literature the successive ages pursued.
We were one day on horse-back, another day in Sasisena Kavya by Pratap Rai of the 17th
boats, it was from the midstream that the best Century is a milestone in Oriya literature. At a
views presented themselves. When the river was time when Oriya poetry was characterized by
winding through mountain gorges, the hill-sides ornamental richness and figurative intricacies, here
widely parted, would allow the water to broaden was a kavya marked by sweet simplicity and fluid
itself into a small lake, the voyager issuing from it beauty. And the author of this singular kavya was
by the river passage, would turn a corner and a son of this soil. There are enough internal
find himself in a fresh lake, whence he might enter evidences to show that the author belonged to
another and yet another - each lake differing from Sonepur garjat. The kavya deals with the love,
its neighbour. marriage and elopement of Ahimanikya, minister s
These lovely sights and sounds created son and Sasisena, daughter of the Raja of
the appropriate artistic atmosphere where poets, Amaravati near the present Chandikhol of
novelists, dramatists, painters, musicians, etc. of Cuttack. It was here at Kamantapur (Sonepur)
no mean merit flourished. Here at Sonepur. that the real drama of their love-life is enacted
against the tantric background of this land of Sat
The growth of literature at Sonepur can Bahen. It was here that Ahimanikya, trapped by
be traced to Charyapada, to Matsyendranath and Jnanadei Maluni, one of the seven tantric sisters,
Daripada of the Natha cult. They wrote esoteric was transformed into a sheep by day and a youth
poetry in language known as Sandhya bhasa. The by night. The kavya end with the transformation
local idioms they used are still in currency in this of the sheep into Ahimanikya under royal orders
area. Lakshmikara, daughter-in-law of and the reunion of the love-lorn lovers. Jnanadei
72
expresses her disdainful horror in her response be saved by the grace of god. This is what we
to the king s command to bring the sheep. What find from canto to canto. The most remarkable
an idea , exclaims the cunning Jnanadei, a sheep aspect of this voluminous kavya is the
in the house of a gardener, a horse in house of a transcendental vision of God seen by a hunter
potter and a monkey in the house of a weaver ; through a strange bird in canto XVII. .. No hands
The Chauhans who ruled Sonepur for /No feet.. No beak/No colour, No shape/No
about three hundred years kept up the tradition nose, no ears... Its body filled the sky, the earth
of the Somagupta kings whose copperplate and the underworld. And he looked into his body
charters carry lines of highly ornate poetry. In the and saw the bird. This immanent us of the poet s
Maranjmura copper plates of Yayati, Sonepur- mystic English contemporary Wordsworth in
on-Mahanadi has been depicted as a metropolitan Tintern Abbey -
city washed by the moon-lit, foam-crested, A sense sublime
restless waves of the confluence sanctified by its Of something far more
holy water, decorated with rest-houses, deeply interfused
resounding with the beaming, blooming lotus-faces Whose dwelling is the light
of amorous women with anticing side-long of setting suns
glances. And the round ocean and the living air
During the reign of Niladhar Sing Deo And the blue sky and in the
(1841-91) there lived at Sonepur three great mind of man
devotional poets namely, Chandramani Das, We see this cosmic vision again in
Bhima Bhoi and Bhubaneswar Panigrahi. Srikrishna Sudhamruta where the asta patavamsis
Chandramani Das was a siddha yogi seated on the Garuda witness Krishna s Gopa
whose samadhi pitha is visited by thousands of Lila far down in Maya Dwaraka and look back
devotees all the year round. His best known work and yet find him behind them.
is Sudhasara Gita (1940) consisting, like the Chandramani Das wrote Tandava
famous Bhagavat Gita, of 18 Cantos. It is based Nruttya , Bhsramana Gita Halia Gita ,
on the Pinda-Brahmanda tattwa of the Prabhati , Balagopala Chautisa , Gupta
Panchasakha school of poetry. But, while this Gopibhasa , etc. some of which are yet to see
intricate tattwa is made complicated by the the light of day. He was a Vaishnavite poet who
Panchasakhas it is conveyed in simple, intelligible loved bhajans and kirtans. And yet the god he
language by Chandramani Das. Narada Gita worshipped was Rama and Krishna and Machha
written in the form of a dialogue between Uddhava and Kachha and Narasimha - all rolled into one.
and Narada is Yogasastra turned Kavyasastra. And that one even is disembodied Brahman.
These Yogas are quite different from those Bhima Bhoi began where Chandramani
delineated in the Gita and yet this unpublished had left. His god was Mahima, the Sunya Brahma
kavya closes with the beatific vision of anantasayi or the Void. Tribals are animists. They woship
Vishnu which reminds us of the Viswarupa in the rocks and stones and trees . And yet here was
Gita. an unschooled tribal rebel who declared an
Bhavat araka which is anot her unremitting, uncompromising battle against
unpublished but unparalleled work by this saint idolatry, against brahminical orthodoxy and royal
poet seems to have been influenced by Ram Das authority. Setting up his ashram at Khaliapali near
Dadhyata Bhakti. It comprises thirty cantos and Sonepur with the patronage of Raja Niladhar Sing
is an episode on sin and salvation. From men to Deo, Bhim Bhoi became the Mahima Swamy of
animals, from animals to reptiles-each one can West Orissa whose monotheistic bhajans set to
73
the tune of the castanet ring in the raptured ears Padmavandha, Rathavandha, Gomutrachhanda,
of his million devotees in West Bengal, Andhra, etc. scattered throughout with uncontrolled
Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Orissa. Bhima Bhoi prodigality. the last four cantos are sometimes
was a prolific poet who, at once, dictated four detached from the kavya and sung as morning
bhajans to four scribes. Of his writings mention hymns which, in their lucidity of expression, depth
may be made of Srutinisedha Gita, Adi Anta Gita, of feeling and melodic beauty, have hardly any
Astaka Bihari Gita, Brahma Nirupana Gita, parallel in Oriya poetry. Besides Prematarangini
Bhajanamala, Chautisa Madhuchakra, Manu written in 30 cantos, kavyas like Bhagavata
Sabha Mandala, Brahma Chalaka, Mahatmya , Astapadi and a few lyrics and
Stutichintamani and Mahima Vinod , a chautisas based on the Krishna cult by
ponderous poetic itinerary of Mahima Swamy yet Bhubaneswar Panigrahi are a precious treasure
to be published. Besides, he has dictated of Oriya poetry. In one of these songs, Krishna,
numerous bhajans and chautisas which are still on hearing Radhas grief-stricken separation,
lying scattered here and there. In Brahama bursts into one of the most ornamental utterances.
Nirupana Gita Bhima Bhoi defines Brahman as Nira niraja nayanaru nivara
Purusa and Prakruti, light and darkness, Varaja vasa khedajalu uddhara
knowledge and ignorance, master and slave, sea Dharadharastana vinayavistara
and sky, good and evil, death and immortality. Tara kesa mukha poti re.
But the magnum opus of Bhima Bhoi is his Stuti
Chintamani which has no parallel in Oriya poetry. Raja Niladhar was himself a poet, a
it elevates pure personal suffering to the height of painter, a composer, and a musician. The lyrics
a kavya like Wordsworth s Prelude . Here in he wrote were simple, sweet and passionate and
Orissa a wail of agony was, for the first time, were largely influenced by the prevalent taste of
considered subject matter for poetical composition Vaishnavite poetry.
in Bhima Bhoi s hands. We, therefore, sometimes Rajarsi Prataprudra Sing Deo (1891-
strongly feel this unlettered genius of an 1902), Niladhar s son and successor, was well-
unimportant Garjat of those days should have versed in Sanskrit literature and culture. He had
been, in all earnest, given the honour of composed several hymns in Sanskrit included in
inaugurating the modern age in Oriya poetry. Stotratarangini (1893) comprising astakas,
There was another neglected talent of dasakas, dwadasakas on pattamaheswari, here
Sonepur - Bhubaneswar Panigrahi- whose is nityajnanananda sudhamvonidhirupa, an ocean
Prema Tarangini kavya can rival the best of of eternal wisdom and bliss. Somalesvari is
Upendra Bhanja, Kavi Samrat of Oriya poetry. Padmasina, trinayanayuta proditaditya kantih, a
Born to an humble brahmin family of Gaurgaon, three-eyed goddess seated on a lotus and shining
Bhubanear Panigrahi was a court-poet of Niladhar like the sun. Goddess Sureswari dazzles with white
Sing Deo and a pundit of much learning. tulips trembling on the creeper of her fine frame,
Prematarangini which means a river of love sphurat malli mala lalitatanuvallari parisara, while
deals with the separation and union of Krishna the Mahanadi rushes on to lie on the large lap of
and the Gopis in a language charged with passion the eastern sea, prachipayodhi vipulankaviharasila.
and power. This is highly ornate, pictorial poetry, Prataprudra s poet, Pt. Chintamani Nanda s
a long love-song composed to a wide variety of Jagadisa Mahima Stavah is another solid
metres, decorated with figures of speech of contribution to the world of Sanskrit hymns.
alankaras like Utpreksha, Punarukti, Yamaka, If Prataprudra was a Sanskrit scholar, it
Rupaka, Simhavalokana, Vyagragati, etc. and is all but natural that the Oriya kavyas namely
Chitravandhas like Samputavandha, Chaturdasapadi (1918) attributed to him should
74
carry on them the distinct stamp of his Sanskrit resembles Prataprudra s Chaturdasapadi in
scholarship. If Upendra Bhanja s Vaidehisha co ntent and form, Anangarangini and
Vilasa and Dinakrushna Das Rasa Kallola are Chandraprabha Kavya which drew the admiring
written with the first letter of each line beginning attention of poet Radhanath Ray show the poet s
with and respectively, Chandravati rare combination of tradition and modernity.
parinaya is composed in chakaradyaniyama (each Anangarangini deals with the imaginary story of
line beginning with the alphabet- Cha ) which is love between Naravahana, Raja of Kausambi and
rarer still in Oriya vocabulary. Based on an Chandraprabha. Anangarangini deals with the
episode from the Mahabharata this kavya deals imaginary story of love between
with the elopement and marriage of Chandravati, Rasananda,Yuvaraj of Kanchanapura and
Duyodhana s daughter, with Shamva, Srikrishna s Anangarangini, princes of Kamanagara, while
son. Like Prematarangini , this is a pictorial, Chandraprabha Kavya delineates the live and
musical kavya composed to as many as twentytwo marriage, separation and union between
metres like Kalasa, Ramakeri, Rasakoila, Naravahana, Raja of Kausambi and
Vasant a, Chakrakeli, Mangalagujjari, Chandraprabha, daughter of the fairy king,
Shankarabharana, etc. The splendour of Chitraketu. The visible appro ach of
description, the opulence of alankaras, and the Anangarangini s youth depicted by the florist
mellifluity of its music make it one of the milestones Kalavati in Ch.II and the description of the spring-
in the Riti Yuga Oriya poetry. Prataprudra s garden in Ch.IV of Anangararangini, the elaborate
unpublished Chaupadi Ratna contains powerful depiction of the spring-forest, the sunset and
lyrics on the Radha-Krishna love theme. The sunrise in Chandraprabha Kavya justify them as
colophon verses of the originals of Chandravati jewels of Oriya poetry. While there is the
Parinaya and Chaturdasapadi preserved at
unmistakable shadow of the ornamental poetry
Gourgan in manuscript form bear the name of
of the Riti Yuga on Anangarangini, Chandraprabha
Bhubaneswar Panigrahi. Thus these kavyas
attributed to Prataprudra were definitely written Kavya is a splendid specimen of simplicity in
by Bhubaneswar which BM Sing Deo later modern potery. Its theme is ancient but its
published in the name of his father, Prataprudra. treatment brings it close to the poetry of
Bhubaneswar Panigrahi s son, Dwija Nilambar, Radhanath and Nandakishore. In St.267-9,
too, has left behind him a few significant lyrics Naravahana nostalgically reminisces :
composed in medieval Vaisnavite mode. This rich The same scented breeze from the south
tradition of poetry is fostered and sustained by The same warm song of the cuckoo,
the natural loveliness of Sonepur, its rivers and The same flowers, the same bees
streams, its hills and forests, its fields and groves White with pollen grains,
and, above all, by the Mahanadi flowing down the same sweet air,
loud on the stones and low on the sand, singing And yet since her departure
with Tennyson s brook, Men may come and men Something has happened to my heart.
may go/ But I go on forever.
Maharani Lady Parvati Devi and Yuvaraj
The reign of Birmitrodaya Sing Deo Somabhusan have respectively left behind them
witnessed the flowering of all branches of literture: two important kavyas namely, Syamantaka Mani
poetry, novel, drama, biography, travelogue, (1928) and Gajendra Mokshana (1907). While
translations, etc. Syamantaka Mani deals with the loss and
Birmitrodaya is said to have written restoration of the jewel Syamantaka, Gajendra
Chandraprabha Kavya (1902), Astapadi (1926), Mokshana depicts the story of the salvation of an
and Anangarangini(1935). Whille Astapadi elephant crocodile from a Gajendra Mokshana
75
claim a special place in Oriya poetry for its moving Bichhandacharan were sweating and struggling to
simplicity spontaneity and spirituality. keep the banner of the Oriya language flying, here
was a thin, little voice in a remote corner of Orissa
Pt.Aditya Prasad Guru was primarily a
lifting its lyric of patriotic protest.
Sanskrit scholar who attempted three kavyas in
Oriya. Kutiravasini (1931), Kokila Sandesa and Sonepur had a rich tradition of songs and
Tarapurgarh (MS). While Kokila Sandesa is music. Niladhar Sing used to compose songs and
written in the tradition of Duta Kavyas like sing them to the accompaniment of musical
Kalidasa s Meghaduttam and Dhoyi Kaaviraja s instruments which he himself played. Birmitrodaya
Pavanadutam, Kutiravasini, dedicated to sing Deo wrote half a dozen books containing
hundreds of songs which continued the tradition
Maharani Parvati Devi, is based on Canto VII of of kavisurya Baladeva Rath and Gopalakrushna
Devi Bhagavatam. It tells the story of Sukanya, in Oriya Poetry. These songs contained in Sangita
daughter of Raja Saryati, and her god-conquering Ratnahara (1925), Sangita Vallari (1931),
chastity. Krushna Premodaya Champukavyam O Sangita
Mayaraduta by Lakanath Misra Sudhasagara (1933), Sangita Mitrodaya (1934)
resembles Guru s Kokila Sandesa. Both are and Sangita Kusumanjali are largely based on the
love between Radha and Krishna, and composed
Khanda Kavyas written on the same theme and to a wide variety of metres like puravi , todi
in the same Kalyana Ahari metre. But Misra s paraja , kedara gauri , bhatiari , kamodi ,
Haripriya (1922) can be classed with modern saari , malhara , panchama varadi ,
poetry. It tells the story of Haripriya s anandabhairavi , sankarabharana , etc. They are
disappearance and discovery against the scenic, set even in Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, tunes. These
sylvan setting of Sonepur.The treatment of nature songs, characterized by soft sentiments and lyrical
in this kavya carries it close to the best of intensity, combine in them the lucid simplicity of
Gangadhar Meher s nature poetry. Elizabethan love-lyrics with the intellectual titillation
of metaphysical secular songs. Birmitrodaya s
Harihar Panigrahi is a minor poet whose unpublished lyrics and chautisas and Malasri
Agamani, Nirajana, Niti Saurabha, Asrudhara, alongwith Swarnapura Bedha Parikrama (1899)
Archana and Santwana Puspamalya claim him a and Lady Parvati Devi s Humva Gita (1929) come
place among Oriya poets. While the last three under this category of songs. Birmitrodaya
are elegiac effusions on the death of Birmitrodaya compiled and published two collections of
Sing Deo, the first three relate the poet to nature Sanskrit hymns, namely, Stotratarangini (1893)
and human nature. Though of shorter stature than and Suvarnamerusatakam (1927) to which
his celebrated father Gopinath Panigrahi, Harihara Niladhar, Prataprudra and Birmitrodaya have
made significant contributions.
will be remembered for his pan-Orissan
sentiments expressed in Nirajana. In the midst of This tradition of poetry has come down
drowsy autumnal fertility and dreamy to Kaibalya Charan Nayak whose Nala Charita
voluptuousness, in the midst of what Keats would written in Riti Yuga style and Sakha Prasakha ,
have called, mellow fruitfulness , the poet finds a romantic effusion are yet to be traced.
Marudhara (1961) and Sandhyatara (1969)
Orissa condemned to starvation and slavery.
contain around fifty devotional lyrics which show
Where is the trade across the seven seas ? the the poet s disenchantment and disillusionment with
poet asks ruefully. At a time when the Oriya the world and his theocentric mindset. One of his
language was under attack when poets like longest poems in Sandhyatara is Chandli Chule
Gangadhar, Radhanath, Bichitr anand, which takes the reader on a delightful trip round
76
the religious and historical places of Sonepur. Misra s famous Kosalanandakavyam (1929).
Kaibalya Charan s MS Mahapathara Yatri Swarnapurarajavansanucharitam which the
contains a cluster of divine poems expressive of poet rightly calls the Second Kosalananda . It is
the poet s world-weariness and stoical surrender a poetic, historical record of the Chauhan Rajas
to divine dispensation. The last poem of Sonepur beginning with Madangopal and
Mahapathara Yatri which paints the pathetic ending with Birmitrodaya.
picture of a dying man casting longing lingering
looks behind closes with the emboldening sense Damodar Misra Sastri s Swarnapura
of self-realization with which he puts out to sea Chauhana Kirttidarpana is a historical kavya in
in the hour of sunset and evening star. Oriya serialized in Sambalpur Hiteisini. It traces
the history of the Sonepur Chauhans in simple,
Satyanarayan Bohidar was a poet with a lyrical poetry. Unfortunately this rare works has
difference. Author of Kosali Bhasakosh , his not been published in the form of a book.
works namely Tik Chahnra (1975). Ghavghavo,
Ghuvkudu etc. are written in Kosali or Sambalpuri Pt Aditya Prasad Guru s Tarapurgarh
language. The ease and facility with which Bohidar in Oriya, Syenagirih and Purascharana vamna
weaves the local idioms into the tapestry of his Champuh in Sanskrit, too, are historical kavyas
poetry is indeed amazing. which trace the history and legends surrounding
Sonepur.
Of the other poetical works of Sonepur,
mention may be made of the monumental Travel Literature
Buddha Purana in several volumes by Nakula At a time when there was hardly any
Nayak, Papakshaya Mahatmya by travelogue in Oriya literature, Sonepur created a
Dharmananda Meher, Rama Lila by Gandhar host of travel literature. Some of them were
Vaisya, Anutapa Tarangini by Pt.A.PGuru, written in the form of dialogic kavyas which lend
Purana Kathasara by Par vati Devi, credence and objectivity to history. Swarnapura
Ratnasimhasana Prasasti, by Damodar Sastri, Gunadarsha (1921) by Damodar Sastri is the
Ratnasimhasanotsava by Gopinath Panigrahi and historical geography of Sonepur in the form of a
Kalika Purana by B.M. Sing Deo. Champu Kavya gadyam hudyam
Historical Literature ashesasavdanihitam padyam . Lokananda and
Bijoy Chandra Mazumdar who was a Sadananda, fictitious merchants from Prayag,
poet and a historian wrote Sonpur in the begin their tour of Sonepur State from the left
Sambalpur Tract (1911) and Orissa in the bank of the Mahanadi, cross over the Panchara
Making (1925). Sri Ramchandra Mullick wrote Pragana and visit the places of interest on the right
Samkhipta Kosala Itihas (1931) and Odisa bank till they enter the town. Maharudrayaina
Itihas which are pure history. Sonepur Itihas Kavyam (1920) like Biswanath Rath s
by Pt.Aditya Prasad Guru and Sonepur Panigrahanapadapapah (1919) and Jagannath
Chauhana Vansa Itihas by Biswanath Rath, too, Mishra s Utasavatarangini Champuh (1910), is
are prosaic attempts at pure history. But the works another historical kavya by Damodar Misra who
by Pt.Gopinath Panigrahi Vidyaratna like Upahara deacribes the journey of Maharaja Birmitrodaya
Puspanjali (1910). Kumara Janmotsava (1927), through the scenic Sonepur. His visit to Sambalpur
Ekadasi Udyapana (1928) constitute the poetical and Benaras. His trip round the temples of
history of the Chauhan rulers of Sonepur. They Benaras, the performance of the Maharudra
set out to celebrate an occasion but end up as Yajna and his return journey are described with
history. Gopinath Panigrahi s master-piece is a the fidility and sincerity of a distinguished count -
historical Sanskrit epic of the order of Gangadhar who draws in his first hand experience.
77
But on top of all is Gopinath Panigrahi s Rani is bound to be uneventful. But, Dasgupta
Brata Charita (1915) which is a remarkable discovers in Amulyamani more than a Rani. She
travelogue in prose at a time when Oriya literature is an ideal mother, a devoted wife and a fine
was quite poor in prose. The occasion in the specimen of Indian womanhood. The book deals
thread ceremony of Somabhusan Sing Deo, with Amylyamani s early years in the Kalahandi
Birmitrodaya s son, but it sends the writer to palace, her married life, her children and
different places of Orissa and beyond, which come grandchildren, her role as a wife and a mother
out aggressively alive in Panigrahi s journalese. and her last days.
While Part-I takes us round Puri, Sareikela, It is said that Pt.Gopinath Panigrahi had
Boudh, Athgarh, Dhenkanal, Kasipur, Kuchinda, attempted a book of biographies and called it
Calcutta etc, we are set on a guided tour round Satcharitra Samadara which is lost to posterity.
the temple town of Sonepur in Part-II. What
Jagannath Misra Tarkatirtha, does in Dramatic Literature
Utsavatarangini Champuh, Gopinath Panigrahi Sonepur had a rich tradition of dance and
Vidyaratna does in Brata Charita. But, what is music and drama. Imagine a Yuvaraj freely mixing
remarkable and delightful about Panigrahi is his with the public and uninhibitedly acting his part
sinewy prose and graphic visual descriptions with them on the stage. And this was possible at
which are the hall-marks of travel literature. Sonepur in the second decade of the 20th century.
It is said that B.M.Sing Deo had written The Yuvaraj was Somabhusan Sing Deo. His
a book Bharata Bhramana, which confined an Sridama Daridrya Bhanjana (1920) is the only
interesting account of his travels across the play available on Sridama s grinding poverty, his
country, now unfortunately lost. unflinching devotion to Lord Krishna, Lord
Krishna s unshakable friendship with Sridama- all
Biographical Literature these are depicted in the drama. Bhagia Panda is
Here in this count ry , wrote a newly created character in this mythological play,
B.C.Mazumdar, we cremate the body, we do which lends dramatic relief, through frolicking
not raise a monument . Yet he raised one in humour, to this otherwise serious play. The
Chohan Rulers of Sonpur (1925) brief life- dialogues are written in Hindi, Hindi mixed with
sketches of Niladhar, Prataprudra and Oriya, Oriya mixed with Sambalpuri. In the
Birmitrodaya in pure panegyrics. B.C.Mazumdar Foreword, B.M.Sing Deo refers to one-actor
was closely associated with the Sonepur Durbar. titled Mayasavari by Somabhusan which is not
He had seen the Rajas within close range. Had available.
he wished, he would have built soild biographics Gopinath Panigrahi is said to have
on the rulers, but he did not choose to do so. attempted some poetic plays, namely Subhadra
May be because, truth is dangerous and to sing Parinaya , Sachala Harana and Rukmini
the praise is less problematic and more profitable Harana which have walked into oblivion.
than to launch a perilous voyage on the discovery
of the whole man . Fictional Litérature
But unlike Chohan Rulers of Sonpur, Life It has already been said that Birmitrodaya
of Rani Amulyamani Devi (1915) contains a full- had a poetic talent, but his works on prose fiction
fledged biography, even though here, too, we do like Bhagna Kankana (1920) and Nilakuntala
not see anything shocking or revolting in the Rani. (1927) are milestones in Oriya fiction. At a time
The Rani was, of course, on her own the true when Oriya literature had only a handful of novels
representative of Indian womanhood - an to show, it was here at Sonepur that these novels
ardhangini to Rajarsi Prataprudra. The life of a were written to enrich the literature of the State.
78
Bhagna Kankana is a historical novel him translate into Oriya great Sanskrit classics like
based on the intrigue between Ajayagarh had Ratnavali (1894), Abhijnana Sakuntala Nataka
Bishnugarh Raj families. The distinction of this (1898, Vikramorvasi (1910), Rutusamhara
novel lies in the Jaina background against which (1915), Naisadhiya, Charita (1921), Sisupala
the quiet words of wisdom uttered by a little Vadha (1928), Dasa Kumara Charita (1928),
ignominious girl Johan in the gathering gloom of Kalika Purana (1929), and Uttara Rama Charita
the evening. Sorrow breeds sorrow. The Kavya (1930) Sing Deo acknowledges the help
compassion of Lord Mahabir removes sorrow of Bhubaneswar Badpanda, Fakir Misra,
and leads the soul through endless joy towards Madhusudan Rao, Nilakantha Das, etc. without
Nirvana. What is sorrow, prince ? which the major works of Kalidas, Sriharsa,
Bhavabhuti,Dandi, Magha,Markandeya would
While Bhagna Kankana is a historical have remained Greek to the ordinary Oriya
novel, Nilakuntala is a sociological fiction, which readers.
reflects the dwindling values of the rural society
of those days. The centers of activity are Binodpur Under BM Sing Deo s patronage BC
and Bishnupur and the merit of the novel lies in Mazumdar translated Gita Gobindam into Bengali.
the seamless integration of the main plot with the Lady Parvati Devi, it is said, had translated
under plot. Nilakuntala projects the picture of the Bhaktikavyam and Pt.Gopinath Panigrahi,
contemporary society: the misguided youth, the Malatimadhavam and Mruchhakatikam, but these
village touts, the simple, unsuspecting, invaluable translation have become extinct with
unsophisticated Savara society, the gossips in the the passage of time.
river ghat, the evils of poverty and the benefits of It may be mentioned here that great
education - all these are realistically portrayed in works like Gangadhar Misra s
the novel. The justice dispensed is poetic. The Kosalanandakavyam which is one of the three
denouncement is harden, it is too sudden to be historical Sanskrit Mahakavyas of the country,
credible. And yet this novel will live for the life it Gopinath Tunga s Virasarvasvam which is the
mirrors. quintessence of twentyseven shastras of India,
Translation Niladri Mahodayah which is the only complete
and comprehensive compendium on the Puja
The appetite of Birmitrodaya for Sanskrit padhhati of Lord Jagannath, Pt.Harihara Rath s
classics was whetted by the pundits who Birmitrodaya Mahabharata in three volumes, etc.
surrounded him. They were Pt. Krupasindhu would not have seen the light of day without the
Mishra,. Jyotisalankara. Pt. Ramachandra Padhi, royal patronage of Sonepur. The Sonepur Chair
Siddhanta Tilaka, Pt.Gobinda Rath, of English at Revenshaw College and the Post-
Jyotischandra, Pt Gopinath Panigrahi, Vidyaratna, graduate Department of Calcutta University
Pt.Kasinath Mishra, Kavyavinod, Pt. Damodar founded by Sonepur Durbar have immensely
Misra, Sast ri, Pt.Aditya Prasad Guru, contributed to the cause of language and literature
Kavyatirtha, Pt . Chintamani Nanda, down the years.
Vidyabhusana, Pt.Devaraj Misra,
Sahityopadhyana, Pt. Brusabha Misra,
Vidyalankara etc. Maharaja BM Sing Deo might
have also received inspiration from Prataprudra
and Amulyamani, his parents who were well-read Retd. Registrar, Berhampur University, Plot - 22,
and well-versed in Sanskrit literature. This made Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar.
79
ORISSA :
NEW FRONTIERS OF DEVELOPMENT
The glorious re-emergence of present Government investors, application of information technology in

in Orissa evoked new spirit and enthusiasm among governance, creation of multiple livelihood
the people. Backed by the overwhelming support of opportunities for farmers, empowerment of women,
the people, the Government led by Sri Naveen devolution of powers to Panchayati Raj institutions,
Patnaik pursued hard to improve the socio-economic provision of quality health services, stress on
condition in the face of many challenges. The primary education, stimulation of self employment
Government from the very beginning adopted the opportunities through employment mission and
attitude of retrospection of development of Schedule
policies and programm es Tribes and Schedule Castes
undertaken during the first and vulnerable sections of the
phase of its tenure and devised society. All these exercises
appropriate strategies to were primarily targeted to
improve the quality of lives. tri gger the process of
dev elopment in its right
In accelerating the
perspectives. In revering the
pace of dev elopment, the
sentiment and perception of
Government of Orissa clearly
the people, the Government put
outlined its prime objective of
in place pragmatic policies like
human dev elopment. It
Resettlement and
concentrated on a meaningful
and effective development Rehabilitation for affected
framework and also identified families in the process of
the growth engines directing industrialization and other
thereby all its policies and developmental efforts. Many of
programmes to be anchored in these initiatives have been
a social context. It sincerely regarded as exemplars for
tried to reflect the development other parts of the country.
priorities of the target publi c where all its Indices of development have never been
interventions are applied. The Government led by assessed in terms of quantitative achievements.
Sri Patnaik consistently endeavoured to encourage
Paradigm of governance has already experienced
effective and efficient use of available resources for
a shift for which many emerging disciplines have
furthering the well-being of the people of Orissa.
become the way of life. The concepts of good
The major initiatives launched to address governance, transparency and accountability have
issues of emergent nature basically hinges on become abiding factors with the implementation of
principles of better financial discipline, optimum use path-breaking Right to Information Act. This far
of resources, creation of conducive climate for reaching law provides for independent information
80
commissions, proactive disclosures and reporting developed with a treatable area of 13

mechanisms having the potential to impact the hectares.
process of governance in a profound and positive
Water Resources : Creating Maximum
manner by empowering the citizen. During all these Irrigation Potential
courses, the Government under the dynamic and
vibrant leadership of Sri Naveen Patnaik have ¤ During 2005-06, six irrigation projects
relentlessly tried to transform the scenario of the identified for completion with a targeted
State into new frontiers of development. irrigation potential
of 12685 hectares,
Agriculture : Focus on Farm Mechanisation of which f our
projects already
¤ Priority accorded to completed.
Agriculture
extension through ¤ During 2005-06,
application of high- Orissa Lift
end Crop Production I r r i g a t i o n
Te c h n o l o g i e s , Corporation (OLIC) completed 500 new LI
Points under Biju Krushak Vikas Yojana and
adoption of
created an additional irrigation potential of
Integrated Nutrient
10,000 hectares.
Management and
Pest Management ¤ About 13,397 Pani Panchayats formed in the
practices. State by January 2006 covering an area of
10.40 lakh hectares. Out of these, 11,583
¤ Farmers' training
Pani Panchayats have taken over operation
programmes,
and maintenance of irrigation system covering
farmers' field school and demonstration
an area of 7.81 lakh hectares.
conducted f or macro-management of
agriculture, ISOPOM, ICDP (cotton) for ¤ Master Plan for irrigation being formulated to
bringing adv anced crop production bring minimum 35% of the cultivable area in
technology and packages of practices to the each block under irrigation within a time
farmers' doorsteps. frame of five years.
¤ 12.5 lakh grafts of various fruits, 10 lakh grafts Steel & Mines : Harnessing Natural Resources
of cashew and 2.5 lakh vegetable minikits ¤ Orissa in recent years has become a hotspot
supplied to farmers. for steel and Aluminium firms of national and
¤ To promote onion crops in the state, 300 international repute.
quintals of quality onion seeds distributed to ¤ 43 MOUs signed with an investment of
cover 7500 acres of land. Rs.1,37,000 crore for setting up steel plants
¤ Under National Horticulture Mission, 2625 in the state.
demonstrations on rose, gladioli and marigold ¤ POSCO, a South Korean steel giant, entered
held to encourage floriculture. A target of into an MOU with Govt. of Orissa to set up a
60,000 demonstrations set for the next year. steel plant having a production capacity of
¤ To ensure minimum support price to farmers 12 MTPA with an investment of about US $
a target of 20 lakh MTs of rice set to be 12 billion.
procured through Orissa State Civil Supplies ¤ The flagship Aditya Birla Group plans to
Corporation Ltd., PACs, MARKFED & setup a 1 MTPA Alumina refinery with
NAFED and millers under levy route. smelter.
¤ In developing micro-watersheds in drought ¤ Orissa Mining Corporation set itself a
prone areas, 2413 micro-watershed being production target of 51.20 lakh tonnes of
81
minerals in 2005-06. This represents 33% development and strengthening post-

increase over the previous year. graduate and research programmes in
various engineering and allied disciplines.
¤ Iron Ore production slated to touch 43 lakh
tonnes in 2005-06, representing an increase ¤ In order to support massive investments, top
of 40% over the previous year. priority accorded to im prov ement in
infrastructural facilities. For creating quality
¤ Investigations to assess heavy minerals in infrastructure development in IT sector, an
beach sand along the Puri Coast, exploration export promotion industrial park set up at
for Gemstone in Bolangir and Bargarh, Bhubaneswar.
exploration for Bauxite in Koraput and
Kandhamal, investigations for Tungsten and ¤ In promoting small and medium enterprises
Graphite in Angul and Dhenkanal districts in the State, 2255 small industries were set
up during 2005-06 with an investment of
going on.
Rs.123.23 crores providing employment to
¤ Ef f ectiv e steps being taken up f or approximately 10,308 persons.
enforcement of Orissa Mineral Act, 1989 to ¤ State Institute for Development of Arts and
curb illegal mining activities and trading of Crafts set up for superior design, product
ores and minerals. development and training. A strategy of
Industries : Creating a Conducive cluster development adopted for developing
Atmosphere for Investors different handicraft clusters.
¤ To accelerate industrial development, Information Technology : Heading for a
employment opportunities and economic Knowledge Rich Society
growth a single window clearance ¤ The State is making significant strides in
mechanism introduced by enacting Orissa Information Technology sector. MOUs signed
Industries (facilitation) Act, 2004 ensuring with TCS and Wipro to set up Development
time-bound clearance of inv estment Centers at Infocity in Bhubaneswar. Other
proposals and rationalization of inspections. companies like Hexaware Technologies &
¤ Orissa in recent years, has emerged a Mind Free Consulting are keen to invest in
favourite destination for investors especially the state. All these companies are expected
in mineral sector. Since 2003-04, 46 to directly employ about 5000 software
companies have already signed MOUs, of professionals by 2007-08 besides creating
which 43 in steel sector with a capacity of substantial indirect employment.
58.14 MTPA and investment of about ¤ An e-procurement system initiated jointly by
Rs.1,37,156 crore and two in Aluminium Government of Orissa, National Institute of
sector with an investment of Rs.25,000 crore. Smart Governance (NISG) and National
¤ 14 steel companies have started partial Informatics Centre (NIC) to bring in a
commercial production with an investment transparent and efficient system of tendering
of Rs.10,750 crore creating direct and procurement.
employment opportunities for about 10,000 ¤ State Wide Area Network (SWAN), a core
persons. e-Gov ernance infrastructure under
¤ Indian Oil Corporation all set to set up a im plementation to connect the State
Refinery and Petro-chemical Complex of 12 Headquarters with all district headquarters,
MTPA capacity at Paradeep with an Sub-Div ision headquarters, block
investment of Rs.25,000 crore. Headquarters with a 2 mbps dedicated line.
¤ Acknowledging development in technical ¤ The Ori ya language pack under the
education, a key element for employment programme "Technology Development for
generation, BPUT signed an MOU with IIT, Indian languages" to enable Oriya Language
Kharagpur to obtain assistance for facility computing completed.
82
¤ Project e-sishu aiming at creating a database managers identified to take up publicity and
of the 3 pillars of education namely children, promotion professionally.
teachers and school taken up by OPEPA
¤ A new logo adopted to re-position and rebrand
and jointly being executed with OCAC. This
Orissa as a Vibrant Tourist Destination.
would help achiev ing our goal of
universalisation of primary education and ¤ Various strategic
ensuring that no child of the state left out of tourism projects
school. such as Peace
Park at Dhauli,
Science & Technology : Opening New Vistas
infrastructure
¤ Gramsat Pilot Project being implemented in dev elopment in
the State to provide satellite communication Buddhist circuit
in remote areas. Under this project direct comprising
reception sets installed in the State capital, Lalitgiri, Udayagiri,
all districts, block headquarters and 1179 Ratnagiri & Langudi and tourism development
Grampanchayat Headquarters in KBK at Pipili taken up.
districts.
¤ A Special Tourism area being developed
¤ Four schools in Koraput district now covered between Puri and Chilika through IDCO for
by EDUSAT Programme launched in October development of up-market tourism.
1, 2005.
¤ For promotion and marketing, a slew of
¤ Acknowledging tourism f airs and f estiv als such as
the potential of Sreekhetra Utsav at Puri, Ekamra Utsav at
Biotechnology, Bhubaneswar, Konark Festival at Konark
steps taken to set being supported showcasing the tourism and
up a Bio- cultural potential of the State.
Technology park
¤ Orissa Tourism participated in Travel-Trade
in Bhubaneswar.
shows like Buddhist festival at Bangkok,
¤ Target set to Leisure Moscow at Moscow, W TM at
electrif y 1000 London, PATA convention at Kualamlumpur,
remote villages IATO at Kochi, TTF at Kolkata, Road show
through non-conventional energy sources. at Raipur etc.
¤ To facilitate f undamental research in ¤ 373 guides trained to promote private sector
mathematics, steps taken to establish an participation in tourism sector.
Institute of Mathematics as a center of
Culture : Broadening Cultural Horizon
excellence at Bhubaneswar.
¤ Kalamandal, a multipurpose cultural complex
¤ To inculcate scientif ic temper among
to promote song, music, dance and drama
children, the 13th National Childrens' Science
under construction.
Congress was organized at Bhubaneswar in
December 2005. It was inaugurated by His ¤ Under Raja Rammohan Ray library foundation
Excellency, the President of India Dr. A.P.J. scheme, book assistance and storage
Abdul Kalam. provided to rural libraries and Gandhi
Pathagaras.
Tourism : Making Orissa a Preferred Destination
¤ 'Sri Jagannathayan' a novel venture initiated
¤ Acknowledging the importance of Tourism
for the propagation and popularization of Sri
promotion in economic growth of the State,
Jagannath culture in contemporary
Media Management Agencies and event
perception.
83
¤ 12th Finance ¤ New initiatives taken to provide employment

Commission to opportunities and create self-employment
provide Rs.50 avenues for ST youths by skill upgradation
crore f or training in ITIs and polytechnics.
H e r i t a g e ¤ Employment rallies organized in tribal areas
Conservation in
for recruitment of tribal youths in Defence
the state.
services.
¤ An Artists Welfare Fund formed to provide ¤ Assistance also provided to 4158 SC families,
financial support to indigent and distressed 643 ST families and 26 liberated safai
artists. karmacharis through OSFDC.
ST & SC Development : Enriching the Quality ¤ Assistance provided towards payment of
of Tribal Life monetary relief to 180 SC and 97 ST victims
¤ To improve the income of tribal households of atrocities under the SCs and STs (PoA) Act,
and productivity of their land "Orissa Tribal 1989.
Empowerment and Livelihood Programme"
(OTELP) launched with assistance from IFAD- Women & Child Development : Empowering
DFID-WB, from October 2, 2004 with an outlay Women
of Rs.430.73 crore covering 30 tribal blocks of ¤ In improving health status of children,
seven southern districts. adolescent girls, pregnant women and
¤ Control over 60 minor forest produce and NTFP lactating mothers, a holistic approach initiated
which account for a substantial part of tribals' in the state through Integrated Child
house-hold income transferred to Gram Development Programme covering about 31
Panchayats. lakh persons.
¤ Restoration of alienated tribal land to its rightful
¤ To improve nutritional status of malnourished
owners.
children, a programme called 'Aame Bi
¤ Regularisation of Pre-1980 forest habitations. Paribu' being implemented.
¤ Olichiki included in the 9th schedule of the
constitution. ¤ A special intervention programme 'Kishori
Shakti Yojana' designed for adolescent girls
¤ Minor forest cases and minor criminal cases
in the age group of 11 to 18 years, being
against tribals withdrawn.
implemented in all 326 ICDS projects of the
¤ All-weather roads to tribal habitations of 500 state, aim ing at correcting gender
population.
disadvantages and providing a supportive
¤ Hamlets to be treated as habitations for environment.
rehabilitation packages.
¤ About 51 lakh school children in 69,700
¤ Price of kendu leaf bundles procured by the
Forest Department increased to 21 paise from schools being provided cooked meals under
16 paise and large number of new collection Mid Day Meal programme everyday.
centers opened. ¤ To empower the women of the state about
¤ Women self-help groups provided with loan 1,76,000 Self Help Groups formed under
linkages to augment tribals' family income. Mission Shakti. Of this, about 1.6 lakh groups
¤ Tribal villages being electrified on priority basis. given advance credit to the tune of Rs.370
¤ Tahasildars disposing of cases in camp courts crore.
in stead of revenue headquarters. ¤ Old Age Pension increased to Rs.200/- per
¤ Decision taken to provide house sites to all month under State Old Age Pension Scheme
eligible homesteadless tribals. covering about 6,75,000 persons.
84
Energy : A Pioneer in Power areas created 107 lakh mandays by utilizing

about 60,000 MTs of rice.
¤ Steps taken to provide access to all rural
households during next five years. ¤ Under Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana
33655 swarojgaries benefited by utilizing
¤ Under Minimum Need Programme (MNP), Rs.35.94 crore during 2005-06.
4696 villages, hamlets and dalit bastis
programmed to be electrified. Of this, ¤ Steps under process to computerize 2742
electrification of 2965 villages and hamlets Gram Panchayats having population more
completed by December 2005. than 5000.
¤ Being a surplus state in electrici ty ¤ All 314 blocks and 30 DRDAs provided with
production, surplus power to the tune of V-sat connectivity.
Rs.420 crore sold to Power Trading ¤ New software tools PRIYA-SOFT and
Corporation and National Vidyut Vyapar RURAL-SOFT developed for accounts and
Nigam through GRIDCO during the 2005-06 scheme monitoring.
by December 2005.
¤ State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD)
¤ 7 projects with estimated cost of Rs.592 crore conducted 96 training programmes for 5367
approved by Govt. of India for implementation participants in 2005-06.
of Accelerated Power Development and
Reforms Programme (APDRP). PGPA : Redressal of Grievances
¤ Highly efficient Orissa Power Generation
¤ During the year 2005-06, 9589 grievance
Corporation (OPGC) paid a dividend of
petitions received and processed f or
Rs.31.25 crore to the State Government
redressal.
during 2005-06 (Interim).
¤ 26338 persons benef ited through 21
Panchayati Raj : Power to the People
'Janasampark Sibiras' organized in different
¤ Conf ormi ng to the mandate of 73rd districts.
amendment of the constitution, the process ¤ One Pension Adalat (118th) conducted in
of devolution of powers to Panchayati Raj which 288 cases disposed off.
Institutions going on with transfer of various
subjects of different departments to PRIs. Rural Development : Improving Quality of
Rural Life
¤ To provide atleast 100 days of guaranteed
employment to rural people, National Rural ¤ In according priority to rural connectivity in
Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) the state, 4067.15 kms of all-weather roads
launched in the State in 19 districts covering constructed under Pradhan Mantri Gram
205 blocks and 3672 GPs. This will guarantee Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
unskilled employment to every household in ¤ With the assistance of NABARD, 151 bridges
33527 villages covering 4078982 households. and 368 kms of road completed.
¤ 30501 Indira Awas constructed in 2005-06 ¤ Under Swajaldhara Yojana, 290 Drinking
by December. Water Projects completed. 8382 tube wells,
¤ Under Sampurna Grameen Rojgar Yojana 223 sanitary wells and 112 piped supply
374 lakh mandays generated by utilizing 2 water project completed during 2005-06 by
lakh MTs of foodgrains and cash of Rs.218 December.
crore in 2005-06. ¤ Under Total Sanitation Programme 8.22 lakh
individual households latrines and 7994
¤ A special component of the SGRY,
school toilets and 296 Anganwadi toilets
implemented in natural calamity affected
constructed at a project cost of Rs.440 crore.
85
Food, Supplies & Consumer Welfare : Reaching ¤ Valmiki Ambedkar Awas Yojana being
out to Poor implemented to provide dwelling units to slum
¤ Under Antyodaya Anna Yojana, 35 kg rice dwellers.
per family per month being provided to about ¤ Steps taken for a perspective plan for
10 lakh poorest of the poor families at highly Cuttack-Bhubaneswar urban complex with
subsidized price of Rs.3 per kg. An additional the help of IIT-Kharagpur to promote planned
2.63 lakh families going to be covered shortly growth of the twin cities and hinterland.
under the scheme.
¤ Bhubaneswar and Puri selected under
¤ Under Annapurna Scheme, 10 kg of rice per Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal
beneficiary per month being supplied free of Mission (JNNURM) f or massiv e
cost to 64800 senior citizens. developmental projects in next seven years.
¤ To protect the rights of consumers, one State ¤ With the help of the funds available under
Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission 12th Finance Commission Award the urban
at Cuttack and 31 district Consumer local bodies planning to take up scientific
Redressal Forums functioning in the State. management of solid waste.
¤ W ith a corpus of Rs.1 crore a State Health & Family Welfare : Quality Health Care
Consumer Welfare Fund created for taking for the Poor
up consumer awareness programme. ¤ National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)
Urban Development : Civic Amenities for launched in the state on 17th June, 2005 to
Urban Life provide effective healthcare to entire rural
mass of the state.
¤ The Government committed to meet the ¤ An innovative scheme ASHA, Accredited
increasing demand for better civic amenities Social Health Activist launched to reach out
and infrastructure facilities for a burgeoning all village Panchayats. ASHA will be the first
urban population. point health contact in each village with a
¤ About 660 population of 1000 or more. So far 6861
million numbers of ASHA identified in the state.
litres of ¤ Under NRHM two Community Health Centres
drinking in each district will be upgraded in the line of
w a t e r Indian Public Health Standards. An united
suppl ie d fund of Rs.10,000/- will be allotted to each
per day for Health Sub-Centre of the state to implement
nearly 4.5 the programme.
million urban population in 103 local bodies.
¤ To meet the shortfall of doctors in the state,
¤ 16907 hand pumps set up in urban areas to 17 organisations given clearance f or
cater to the needs of the weaker section. establishment of Medical and Dental Colleges
in private sector. To promote medical colleges
¤ Three major water supply projects at
in western Orissa by private entrepreneurs,
Rourkela, Angul and Talcher nearing
decision taken to provide 25 acres of land
completion.
free of premium and Rs.10 crore in 3 years
¤ A water supply project f or Titilagarh on reimbursement basis towards creation of
commissioned. infrastructure.
¤ The living conditions of urban slum dwellers ¤ One medical college with 100 seats and one
being improved under National Slum Dental College with 60 seats made functional
Development Programme (NSDP). in 2005-06 in the private sector.
86
¤ MBBS seats of SCB Medical College, sqkm land area and 20 km wide habitat of
Cuttack increased from 107 to 150. 1408 sqkm marine area in Gahirmatha
Marine Sanctuary.
Co-operation : Credit Support to Farmers
¤ Afforestation programme under different state
¤ Short-term cooperative credit structure
and central plans implemented over an area
implemented to double agricultural credit in
of 19,090 hectares.
3 years with 2003-04 as base year.
¤ Financial support provided for medicinal and
¤ Crop-loan inv estm ent registered an
herbal plantation in 1000 acres of private land
impressive 29% growth during 2004-05 and
with active promotion by state Medicinal
34% in Kharif in 2004-05.
Plant Board.
¤ About 24.25 lakh Kissan Credit Cards (KCC)
¤ Kenduleaf Trading generates 150 lakh
issued to farmers, out of which 2.23 lakh
mandays of employment every year.
KCCs issued during 2005-06 by the end of
December 2005. ¤ 9 lakh pluckers benefited from Kendu leaf
collection during the season.
¤ KCC holders who repay for two consecutive
years are issued with Kalinga Kissan Gold ¤ Bamboo working, a potential employment
Cards (KKGC). About 1.27 lakh KKGCs generation activity, commenced timely in the
issued, out of which 32000 card issued during current season in all districts having bamboo
2005-06 by the end of December 2005. forests.
¤ About 1.21 lakh Kalinga Kissan Silver Cards ¤ Forest Department generated 55 lakh
issued by December 2005. mandays of employment through its
activities.
¤ Under Crop Insurance Scheme, a total
amount of Rs.15.04 crore disbursed to ¤ Chilika Development Authority in partnership
farmers for indemnity of crop loss during with v arious stakehol ders working
2005-06 by the end of December 2005. ceaselessly for eco-restoration of the lagoon.
¤ Procurement target of 1,50,000 MTs of Paddy ¤ To control pollution effectively, ban on
fixed for the year 2005-06 for collection polythene of less than 20 microns imposed.
through network of cooperatives. Of this
Revenue : Human Face of Intervention
about 1,00,000 MTs of paddy to be procured
through Primary Agricultural Cooperative ¤ A Pragmatic Resettlement & Rehabilitation
Society (PACS) and 50,000 MTs through Policy put in place for a meaningful solution
State Cooperative Marketing Fedeation to the problems of displaced families. This
(MARKFED). is a pioneering poli cy of the State
Government in comparison to other States.
Forest & Environment : Promoting an Eco-
friendly Environment ¤ To facilitate the personal land holding records
of the citizens, Land Pass Books being
¤ Top priority accorded on programmes for
issued to each land holding families in the
providing livelihood support to forest fringe
state with effect from 26th January, 2006 at
dwellers, increasing forest wealth and
a nominal fee of Rs.20/- with full exemption
promotion of environmental awareness.
to BPL families. This Pass Book will also
¤ 9549 Van Samrakshan Samities (VSS) serve the purpose of certificate in respect of
involved in joint forest management of over caste, income, legal heir, residence and
8431 sqkm of degraded forests. identity.
¤ Protected Area Network of wil dlif e ¤ Under Basundhara scheme, land distributed
sanctuaries and National Parks cover 6611 to 14,588 homesteadless families, out of
87
which 7827 ¤ States Own Tax to GSDP ratio increased

families belong from 4.4% in 1999-2000 to 7.2% in 2004-05.
to scheduled
Tri bes and ¤ Revenue Deficit reduced from about Rs.2574
3234 families crore in 1999-2000 to Rs.522 crore in 2004-
belong to 05. This represents reduction of Revenue
scheduled Deficit as a percentage of GSDP from 6.7%
castes. The to 0.91%.
scheme aims at providing land to 2,49,334 ¤ Fiscal Deficit reduced from Rs.3836 crore
such families within three years from 2005- (9.7%) in 1999-2000 to Rs.1365 crore
06 to 2007-08. (2.37%) in 2004-05.
¤ 157 tehsils of the state out of total 171, fully School & Mass Education : Grooming our
computerized. Future Hope
¤ During the year 2004-05 Government land to
the extent of 5033 Acres distributed among ¤ Giv ing priority to universalization of
6,075 landless families which included 1053 elementary education, 70.18 lakh children
SC and 2954 ST landless families. During enrolled in schools at elementary level.
the year 2005-06 by October, 2005, ¤ Orissa Child Census - 2005 taken up for
Government land to the extent of 1553 Acres better planning and development of education
distributed among 1592 landless families and health of children.
including 700 ST and 246 SC landless
families. ¤ Impressive performance shown by 'Sarba
Sikhya Abhiyan' in the state at national level
Public Enterprises : Protecting Workers' Interest
for utilization of funds.
¤ To revive potentially viable loss making ¤ About 3.17 crore text books supplied to
enterprises, a selective privatization and 60,93,000 elementary students during 2005-
disinvestments policy adopted in 'non-core' 06.
sector. ¤ About 24.84 lakh girl students in government
¤ A conscious policy for a model of privatization elementary schools supplied uniform free of
to secure the interest of workers and create cost through village education committees.
opportunities for further jobs by catalyzing ¤ To develop and safeguard Oriya language and
the dynamism of private sector adopted. culture 'Oriya Bhasa Pratisthan' established.
¤ A set of 'core' enterprises identified to operate ¤ A new programme called Education Satellite
in the public domain. (EDUSAT) launched in the state from October
¤ State all set for Public Enterprises Reforms - 2005 to support elementary and secondary
Programme with external assistance of 30 education.
million pounds. Higher Education : Setting Standards
Finance : Inculcating Fiscal Discipline
¤ A Uniform Academic Calendar framed for all
¤ A number of steps taken to correct the
degree colleges.
structural imbalances in the State Finances
after an MOU signed with Department of ¤ An increasing number of colleges being put
Expenditure, Government of India and under assessment of National Association
enactment of 'Orissa Fiscal Responsibility and Accreditation Council (NAAC) to study
and Budget Management Act, 2005.' the quality of education in colleges.
88
¤ Five Non-Government aided colleges declared Labour & Employment : Stimulating

as autonomous apart from the existing 18. Employment Opportunities
¤ Ravenshaw University Act, 2005 passed in
¤ Full medical care extended to the industrial
Orissa Legislative Assembly.
labourers and their family members through
¤ Establishment of a National Law University a network of ESI hospitals and dispensaries.
under active consideration. Rs.1,02,66,000 approved for payment for the
¤ Admission in 15 different trades allowed in year 2005-06 towards reimbursement cost
vocational institutions. of treatment of ESI beneficiaries from
Revolving Corpus Fund.
¤ Rs.35 crores allocated for developmental
activities to be undertaken in different ¤ Child labours employed in hazardous jobs
Universities during 2006-07. released and admitted under National Child
Labour Project Scheme for being imparted
¤ Uniform Dress Code introduced in all formal education and vocational training.
autonomous colleges from academic session
2005-06. ¤ 22 model carrier corners and 12 students
information Bureaus in women colleges and
Commerce & Transport : Formulating a girls high schools in tribal and backward
Pragmatic Port Policy districts opened for utilization by girl
students.
¤ A sum of Rs.404.87 crores collected as M.V.
Tax against the target of Rs.400 crore upto ¤ 18 Child Labour Projects functioning in 18
March, 2006, with 101% achievement. districts of the State. Till now, 33,843 child
labours admitted in special schools run by
¤ Pension cells constituted for sanction of National Child labour Projects and 64,885
pension of retired S.T.S. employees and 2128 child labours mainstreamed to formal
cases disposed by end of March, 2006. schooling system.
¤ Gopalpur Port to be developed as an all ¤ Minim um W ages
weather port. payable to unskilled,
¤ L & T and TISCO taken up joint plan to semi-skilled, skilled
construct a big international standard port at and highly skilled
Dhamra. categories of workers
increased.
¤ Three new trains introduced by Railways
namely Sampark Kranti Express from ¤ Under the direct
Bhubaneswar to New Delhi, A New DMU supervision of Chief
Passenger train and another passenger train Minister, State
from Cuttack to Paradeep during the year Employment Mission
2005-06. in association with
Directorate of Technical Education and
¤ Smart card based driving licenses and
Training, launched vocational training
registration certificates to be issued in all RTO
programmes for both educated and semi-
offices soon.
educated unemployed youth. 4225
¤ 10 RTO offices and 7 checkgates alongwith candidates being trained for skilling and re-
State Transport Authority computerized. skilling in various market friendly courses.
89
Fishery & Animal Resources Development : the Right to Inf ormation Act, 2005
Strengthening Rural Economy implemented effectively in the State from 12th
October, 2005 with Information & Public
¤ Following the Relations as the nodal department for
objectives set implementation.
out in "State
¤ For proactive disclosure required under the
A g r i c u l t ur e
Policy" and provisions of the Act, all the Government
by adopting Departments making information available
new scientific through the State Government websites.
t ech nol ogy, ¤ Orissa Information Commission constituted
emphasis on and started functioning.
milk, fish & meat production laid.
¤ 'Oriya Film and Cultural Festival' organized
¤ Total milk production per day touches 36 lakh successfully in Mumbai in January, 2006 as
litres, up by 3 lakh litres.
a part of inter-state cultural exchange
¤ All 30 districts of the state, covered by Orissa programme.
Milk Federation (OMFED) to promote diary
¤ A developmental feature "Ama Katha - Odissa
f arming. OMFED increased it's milk
Katha" being telecast every Saturday through
procurement substantially to 2.70 lakh litres
per day. Doordarshan, Bhubaneswar.
¤ Under STEP programme, OMFED is running ¤ A multi-pronged strategy adopted to gather

'Women Diary Projects' in 17 districts. f eedback on the im plementation of
developmental programmes.
¤ 837 women diary cooperative societies
comprising 60,287 women formed in the Sports & Youth Services : Promoting Sports
State. Talents
¤ Under RLTAP, Rs.350 lakh released in the
year 2005-06 for milk production and allied ¤ To provide nutrient balanced diets to inmates
activities in KBK districts. of sports hostels, the monthly stipend per
month per inmate increased from Rs.1200
¤ OMFED aims at achieving milk production to Rs.2250 from January 1, 2006.
of 3.50 lakh litres per day and for creating
self employment for 10,000 rural farmers ¤ Toiletery allowances of Rs.100 per month
during 2006-07. introduced for girl inmates from January 7,
2006.
¤ For scientific pisciculture in reservoirs, a
'State Reservoir Fishery Policy' approved. ¤ An international standard swimming pool
constructed inside Kalinga Stadium to
¤ Under RLTAP, 13 reservoirs having water
spread area of 5709 hectares taken up for promote the sport. Built at a cost of about
pisciculture development in KBK districts. Rs.2.72 crore, this will soon be converted
into a composite Aqua-Sports Complex with
¤ During 2005-06, 101 reservoirs taken up construction of
under pisciculture through Fishermen Diving Pool and
Cooperative Societies and Self Help Groups. Practice Pool.
Information & Public Relations : Improving ¤ O r i s s a
People's Access to Information delegates
v isited Port-
¤· In order to promote transparency and
Blair under
accountability in the system of Governance,
90
Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme from Law : Justice for All

February 13 to March 7, 2006.
¤ Eight special Judge (vigilance) Courts to open
¤ The relaying work of Synthetic Astroturf in
in phases as a measure to provide justice to
the field of sports Hostel, Panposh under all.
progress.
¤ 446 Lok Adalats organized to dispose of
¤ To develop and maintain Sports Infrastructure about 91,000 cases.
in the state, a sum of Rs.465.79 lakh
¤ Legal Awareness camps being organized to
allocated in State Budget for 2006-07.
create legal awareness among rural and tribal
¤ Biju Patnaik Sports & Bravery Award - 2006 people.
conferred on eminent sports persons of the ¤ Sri Jagannath Temple Act amended with
State including Shradhanjali Samantaray, senior officials like Chief Administrator in the
presently captain of Indian women football rank of Commissioner, given the charge to
team. strengthen temple Administration.
¤ All India Kalinga Cup Football Tournament Textile & Handlooms : Weaving Success
revived.
¤ Nearly 2.00 crores of Handloom fabrics by
¤ Proposal to set up a State Sports Academy the primary cooperative societies and apex
for Hockey & Athletics inside Kalinga societies marketed through Direct Marketing
Stadium at an estimated cost of about Rs.20 in Exhibition
crore approved in principle. at the
Nati onal,
¤ 221 outstanding sports persons of the state State and
received cash incentives for the year 2004- District
05 and 2005-06. lev els last
Home : Maintaining Law & Order year.
¤ A pilot
¤ Law and Order situation of the State during project for
2005-06 remained peaceful and communal building sustainable livelihood of weavers and
sericulture farmers under W orld Bank
harmony prevailed during the period.
assisted Orissa fund for Development
¤ Modernisation of Orissa Police going on at a Initiatives with a project cost of about Rs.5
fast pace. An allocation of Rs.235.62 crore crore started with effect from April 2006.
spent during the period 2000-2005. ¤ To promote handloom products worldwide,
the state participated for the first time in
¤ The State Forensic Science Laboratories
international marketing events like Gift Fair-
being equipped with modern equipments.
Mumbai, IFTEX-Delhi and Heimtextil-
¤ As a mark of commitment to make justice frankturt.
accessible to grassroots level, 17 Fast Track ¤ Status of state TDCC granted to Orissa
Court Buildings constructed during 2005. Cooperative Tassar & Silk Federation (serifed)
by Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Govt. of India.
¤ Modernisation of prison infrastructure and
providing better healthcare to the inmates ¤ During 10th plan, sericulture sector provided
going on. employment to around 18,000 families with
additional annual income of Rs.9000 per
¤ To combat the menace of naxalism, family. This includes 10,000 SC & ST farmers
appropriate strategies evolved. in Tassar, Eri and Mulberry cultivation.
91
Planning & Co-ordination : Evolving ¤ A sum of Rs.4,30,000/- and Rs.23,30,000/-

Sustainable Strategies provided from Chief Ministers Relief Fund to
the next of the kins of 43 and 233 victims
¤ A Revised Long Term Action Plan (RLTAP)
killed in Heat wave during 2004-05 and 2005-
formulated for the KBK districts namely,
06.
Koraput, Malkangiri, Nawarangpur,
Rayagada, Balangir, Sonepur, Kalahandi and ¤ Assistance to the tune of Rs.1 crore provided
Nuapada with the core objectives of drought from CMRF for the relief and restoration of
proofing, development saturation, poverty earth-quake hit Jammu & Kashmir during
alleviation and improved quality of life of the 2005-06.
people.
Works : Strengthening Infrastructure
¤ Ganjam, Mayurbhanj, Gajapati, Keonjhar and
Sundargarh districts included in Backward ¤ Efforts on to improve physical connectivity
Districts Initiatives (BDI) of Rastriya Sam in the state by construction, improvement,
Vikas Yojana (RSVY). repair and maintenance of roads and bridges
¤ A special Rural Connectivity Programme for of State Highways, National Highways &
the KBK districts conceptualised. Major District Roads.
¤ In evolving a poverty reduction strategy, a ¤ 8 Bridges and 221 kms of road completed
Poverty Task Force constituted. during 2005-06 by December 2005.
General Administration : Accelerating ¤ Government of India sanctioned Rs.43.5 crore

Governance Initiatives during 2004-05 and Rs.17 crore for 2005-06
to take up 6 road projects and 2 industrial
¤ A programme for improving Transparency and road projects with a total length of 100 km.
Accountability by making available required
information to the citizens through the web, ¤ With a view to provide quality road for
launched in the state inv olving nine upcoming industries in the state under
Departments and nine districts on a pilot Economic Importance Scheme, roads being
basis. improved with an estimated cost of Rs.210
crore in 3 years commencing from 2005-06.
¤ Target set to complete 22 bridges and
improve 475 km of roads with an outlay of
Rs.223 crore during 2006-07.
¤ Implementation of National e-Governance

plan to enable delivery of citizen's services
through one stop shop under implementation.
¤ Assistance to the tune of Rs.1,83,22,966/-
and Rs.2,08,34,763/- provided from the Chief
Minister's Relief Fund in favour of 1885 and
2105 indigent applicants for treatment of major
ailments during 2004-05 and 2005-06.
92
ORISSA REVIEW
VOL. LXII NO. 10 MAY - 2006
DIGAMBAR MOHANTY, I.A.S.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary
BAISHNAB PRASAD MOHANTY

Director-cum-Joint Secretary
SASANKA SEKHAR PANDA

Joint Director-cum-Deputy Secretary
Editor
BIBEKANANDA BISWAL
Associate Editor
Debasis Pattnaik
Sadhana Mishra
Editorial Assistance
Manas R. Nayak
Cover Design & Illustration
Hemanta Kumar Sahoo

Manoj Kumar Patro
D.T.P. & Design
Raju Singh
Manash Ranjan Mohanty
Photo
The Orissa Review aims at disseminating knowledge and information concerning Orissas
socio-economic development, art and culture. Views, records, statistics and information published
in the Orissa Review are not necessarily those of the Government of Orissa.
Published by Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Orissa,
Bhubaneswar - 751001 and Printed at Orissa Government Press, Cuttack - 753010.
For subscription and trade inquiry, please contact : Manager, Publications, Information & Public
Relations Department, Loksampark Bhawan, Bhubaneswar - 751001.
Five Rupees / Copy E-mail : iprsec rediffmail.com

Fifty Rupees / Yearly Visit : http://orissagov.nic.in
Contact: Ph. 0674-2411839
CONTENTS
Mineral Potential of Orissa State : A Kaleidoscopic Review Rakesh Kumar Satapathy

Shreerup Goswami ... 1
An Encounter with Flood of 1980 Gopinath Mohanty ... 15
Glimpses of "Performing Art" Heritage in Orissan

Inscriptions Dr. D.B. Mishra ... 22
Karamula : A Village Where Tradition and Heritage

Play Enterprise Gurbir Singh ... 30
Lord Jagannath : Symbol of Unity and Integration Dr. Chitrasen Pasayat ... 33
Poverty and Performance of Major Welfare Schemes Prasant Sarangi

in Gajapati District Satyabrata Pattanaik ... 37
Changing Faces of Business B.N. Biswal ... 45
Education of Tribal Children in Kandhamal District Raghunath Rath ... 50
Relevance of Folk Theatres in Modern Times Indu Bhusan Kar ... 60
AUCC Bank Laid to Produce Successful Entrepreneurs Choudhury B.K. Das ... 64
Hitherto Unknown Stone Inscriptions of West Orissa S.S. Panda ... 66
The Literary Heritage of Sonepur Dr. Pabitra Mohan Nayak ... 72
Orissa : New Frontiers of Development ... 80

EDITORIAL Orissa
Review
Change is the spice of the civilisation. The subtle change begets many possibilities.
Many changes have taken place during the last two years to improve the socio-
economic condition of the people. In the fields of agriculture, water resources, women
& child development, industries, steel & mines, ST, SC & Backward Classes
development, education, information technology and other sectors there has been
perceptible progress. The concept of good governance has already become the abiding
principle. Transparency and accountability have set in. The perception of the people
creates confidence in the system of governance. No doubt government s intervention
facilitates the path for progress. But it is the people whose participatory role
materialises the fruits of development to be experienced. Under a dynamic and
visionary leadership of the Chief Minister of Orissa the trend of growth treads on.
The feeling is quite comfortable. May it be investors, opinion makers or the people,
every corner recognises the change. The May issue of Orissa Review attempts to
project these changes in a succinct manner. We hope, it will be of interest to readers.

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Orissa Review * May - 2006

Mineral Potential of Orissa State :

Orissa, a major state of India has enormous Occurrences

Kadodiha, Jamkeswar and Thakurmunda. The NICKEL ORE

GRAPHITE Girida of Dhenkanal and Angul districts (Mishra

strength, toughness and ductility. In Orissa Occurrence :-

and basic rocks ( composed dominantly of clino- Khondalite :

Occurrences :- 1. Eastern Ghats Granulite belt.

b) Confluence of Ong and Mahanadi :- LIMESTONE AND DOLOMITE

GOLD Kyanite, Sillimanite & Andalusite :-

1. Ruby and sapphire. a. Contact of pegmatite and ultramafic rocks.

b. High grade pelitic (kyanite-sillimanite) schists

d.Cordierite-sillimanite-garnet schists and Para

3. Alexandrite and Chrysoberyl cat's eye. Pegmatites in Khondalite suite of rocks.

4. Rhodolite, almandine and uvarovite High-grade pelitic schists.

5. Amethyst, topaz, aquamarine, heliodor, Pegmatite.

Table 4: Gemstones and their district wise location in Orissa, India

References: Nanda A K and Bhol B B1998. Fireclay. In, B.K.

An Encounter with Flood of 1980

Glimpses of Performing Art Heritage in

References: 30. E.I., LXII, 1893, pp. 88-104.

2. Sahu, N.K.-Odia Jatira Itihasa, Vol.I, P. 133 34. Ibid, V, 1188.

mainly run by Great, but wait, for traditional art s help

The synthesis of these two primitive but

Lord Jagannath : Symbol of Unity and

Poverty and Performance of Major Welfare

Table-l Occupational Pattern in Gajapati district

Rural Artisans. 679 (0.77) 107331 (2.05)

Table-4 Coverage under ITDA Gajapati (Mav-2004) (Bankable Schemes)

5. Per family avg.

Changing Faces of Business

Historical Development of Business not given for pursuing business. It is because, in

Parents 35 22.29 04. Age of the Businessmen

Friends 2 01.27 In our study we inquired about the age of the

Education of Tribal Children in

Education is a continuous process. It starts soon backwardness, social deprivation spreading of

Percentage of Literacy rate

in article 45 and 46 of the Indian Constitution. So The percentage of literacy of Kandhamal

His Excellency the Governor of Orissa Shri Rameshwar Thakur after

Relevance of Folk Theatres in Modern Times

If we look to origin and evolution of folk theatre, Lilas, Daskathia, Geetabhinaya of

Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik at

AUCC Bank Laid to Produce Successful

of Vegetable and Fruit Producer's Marketing Co-

Hitherto Unknown Stone

archaeological site of Belkhandi in Kalahandi

A Panchayatana temple complex was

The Literary Heritage of Sonepur

Dr. Pabitra Mohan Nayak

The glorious re-emergence of present Government investors, application of information technology in

commissions, proactive disclosures and reporting developed with a treatable area of 13

minerals in 2005-06. This represents 33% development and strengthening post-

¤ 12th Finance ¤ New initiatives taken to provide employment

Energy : A Pioneer in Power areas created 107 lakh mandays by utilizing

which 7827 ¤ States Own Tax to GSDP ratio increased

¤ Five Non-Government aided colleges declared Labour & Employment : Stimulating

¤ Under STEP programme, OMFED is running ¤ A multi-pronged strategy adopted to gather

Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme from Law : Justice for All

Planning & Co-ordination : Evolving ¤ A sum of Rs.4,30,000/- and Rs.23,30,000/-