This is an archive article published on September 8, 2023
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Months before polls, Odisha CM announces Paika Research Centre
Led by Buxi Jagabandhu, the 'Paikas' revolted against the British exploitation of peasants and farmers in March 1817, which is known as ‘Paika Bidroha’ (Paika rebellion).
The CM has directed the Khurda district administration to earmark land and to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for establishment of the Centre. (Express File Photo)
Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday approved establishment of a Paika Academy and Research Centre for propagation of the Paika culture and tradition at the national and international level.
The centre, to be operational under the Odia Language Literature and Culture Department, will also offer special courses for development of Paikas and provide scholarships to students.
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The centre will now be made operational temporarily at Khurda. The CM has directed the Khurda district administration to earmark land and to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for establishment of the Centre.
The announcement gains more significance with both the state assembly polls and the general elections approaching.
The Paikas were peasant militias of the Gajapati rulers of Odisha. Led by Buxi Jagabandhu, they revolted against the British exploitation of peasants and farmers in March 1817, which is known as ‘Paika Bidroha’ (Paika rebellion).
The Odisha government in July 2017 during the bicentenary of the rebellion urged the Centre to declare the Paika rebellion as the first war of independence, as it took place 40 years before the 1857 revolt, and was more organised compared to other movements of the time. Though the request was turned down, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 24, 2018 had released a stamp and a coin to commemorate the Paika Rebellion.
The CM has directed the Khurda district administration to earmark land and to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for establishment of the Centre. (Express File Photo) 
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