Odisha

Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is an eastern Indian state situated along the Bay of Bengal. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, classical dance forms, tribal diversity, and mineral wealth. Odisha has played a significant role in the historical, spiritual, and economic development of India, and continues to stand as a region where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.

Geographical Overview

Odisha lies between 17°49′ and 22°34′ North latitude and 81°27′ and 87°29′ East longitude. It shares its borders with West Bengal to the north-east, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west, Andhra Pradesh to the south, and the Bay of Bengal to the east. The state covers an area of about 155,707 square kilometres, making it the ninth-largest state in India.
The geography of Odisha comprises coastal plains, central plateaus, and northern highlands. The Eastern Ghats traverse the state, and rivers such as the Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Rushikulya, and Subarnarekha flow through fertile valleys before draining into the Bay of Bengal. The state enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity and substantial rainfall during the monsoon season.

Historical Background

Odisha’s recorded history dates back to ancient times when it was known as Kalinga, a powerful kingdom mentioned in early Indian texts and inscriptions. The most notable historical event associated with Kalinga is the Kalinga War (261 BCE), fought between Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire and the Kalinga kingdom. The immense loss of life in this war led Ashoka to embrace Buddhism and propagate non-violence, a turning point in Indian and world history.
Following the Mauryan era, Odisha was ruled by dynasties such as the Chedis, Guptas, Shailodbhavas, Bhaumakaras, and Somavamsis, each contributing to art, architecture, and culture. The Eastern Ganga Dynasty (11th–15th century CE) marked a golden age for Odisha, highlighted by the construction of the magnificent Konark Sun Temple and the development of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
During the medieval period, Odisha came under Muslim and later Mughal rule, followed by the Marathas in the 18th century. The British annexed the region in 1803, incorporating it into the Bengal Presidency. Odisha became a separate province in 1936, based on linguistic identity, and joined the Indian Union after independence in 1947.

Administrative and Political Structure

Odisha is divided into 30 districts, grouped under three divisions: Northern, Central, and Southern Odisha. Bhubaneswar, the capital city, is known for its ancient temples and planned urban layout. Other major cities include Cuttack, Rourkela, Berhampur, Sambalpur, and Puri.
The state follows a unicameral legislature, known as the Odisha Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha). The Governor serves as the constitutional head, while the Chief Minister is the executive leader. The state has a robust administrative setup aimed at decentralised governance, with Panchayati Raj institutions playing a key role in rural development.

Economy and Industrial Development

Odisha’s economy is one of the fastest-growing in eastern India, driven by natural resources, agriculture, and industrial development. The state is rich in minerals, particularly iron ore, bauxite, coal, chromite, and manganese, which support metallurgical and energy industries.

• Agriculture: About two-thirds of Odisha’s population depends on agriculture. The major crops include rice (the staple food), pulses, oilseeds, sugarcane, and jute. The fertile coastal plains and irrigation projects along the Mahanadi basin support agricultural productivity.
• Industry: Odisha has emerged as a hub for mining, steel, aluminium, and power generation. Major industrial centres include Rourkela (Rourkela Steel Plant), Angul, Jharsuguda, and Kalinganagar. The Paradip Port plays a vital role in export trade.
• Energy and Infrastructure: Hydroelectric projects like the Hirakud Dam, one of Asia’s largest, contribute significantly to power generation and irrigation.
• Tourism: Tourism, particularly eco-tourism and heritage tourism, is a growing contributor to the state’s economy.

The state has implemented initiatives such as the Odisha Industrial Policy and Vision 2036 to promote sustainable industrialisation, digital infrastructure, and entrepreneurship.

Education and Research

Odisha has a long tradition of learning, dating back to ancient Buddhist centres like Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitgiri. Modern Odisha continues this legacy through its emphasis on education and research.
Prominent institutions include Utkal University, Ravenshaw University, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar, Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB), and AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
The literacy rate in Odisha is over 77%, and the state government has prioritised education in rural and tribal areas through schemes like the Mo School Abhiyan and Mission Shakti for women’s empowerment.

Culture and Society

Odisha’s cultural heritage is among the richest in India, blending ancient traditions, classical arts, and vibrant tribal customs. Odia is the official language, recognised as one of India’s classical languages due to its literary antiquity.
The state’s festivals and art forms are deeply connected to its religious and social life. Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri is one of India’s most celebrated festivals, symbolising devotion and inclusiveness. Other major festivals include Durga Puja, Kumar Purnima, Pana Sankranti, and Makar Sankranti.
Odisha is also the birthplace of the classical dance form Odissi, one of India’s eight classical dances, known for its grace, expressive gestures, and sculpturesque poses. Folk dances such as Chhau, Dalkhai, and Gotipua are performed during community celebrations.
Traditional crafts like Pattachitra painting, Applique work of Pipili, silver filigree of Cuttack, and stone carving of Konark exemplify Odisha’s artistic excellence.

Geography, Flora, and Fauna

Odisha is endowed with diverse ecosystems ranging from coastal wetlands to tropical forests. Forests cover nearly one-third of the state’s area, harbouring rich biodiversity. Major forest types include sal, teak, bamboo, and casuarina.
The state has several protected areas, including Similipal National Park (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), Bhitarkanika National Park (famous for saltwater crocodiles), Chilika Lake (Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon), and Satkosia Tiger Reserve. Chilika Lake also serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory birds, making it a global biodiversity hotspot.

Transport and Connectivity

Odisha has a well-developed transportation network connecting it to major Indian cities. National Highways 16 and 49 traverse the state, linking its industrial and coastal belts. The East Coast Railway zone, headquartered in Bhubaneswar, plays a crucial role in freight and passenger transport.
The state’s main airports are Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar) and Jharsuguda Airport, with new airports under development in Rourkela and Jeypore. Paradip Port, one of India’s major seaports, handles significant trade volumes, especially in minerals and petroleum products.

Tourism and Heritage Sites

Odisha is a treasure trove of historical monuments and natural attractions. Key destinations include:

• Puri – renowned for the Jagannath Temple and the annual Rath Yatra.
• Konark – home to the Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Bhubaneswar – called the City of Temples, with architectural marvels like the Lingaraja Temple and Mukteshwar Temple.
• Chilika Lake – a paradise for birdwatchers and eco-tourists.
• Cuttack – known for its silver filigree work and historical Barabati Fort.

Tribal tourism in districts like Koraput, Mayurbhanj, and Kandhamal offers insight into indigenous lifestyles, art, and festivals.

Modern Challenges and Development

Despite progress, Odisha faces challenges related to poverty, natural disasters, and infrastructural gaps. The coastal region is frequently affected by cyclones and floods, while droughts impact the interior districts. However, the state’s disaster management system, particularly the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), has been internationally recognised for its effective cyclone preparedness.
The government’s focus on industrial diversification, education, renewable energy, and skill development aims to transform Odisha into a major growth centre in eastern India. Sustainable mining, eco-tourism, and inclusive rural development remain central to its developmental agenda.