The Odisha Government initiated a review of English spellings of districts, subdivisions, tehsils, and blocks to align them with authentic Odia pronunciation.
The Revenue and Disaster Management Department earlier invited suggestions from citizens and public representatives.
A large number of proposals reached the department. A committee headed by Padma Bhushan awardee and eminent Odia litterateur Dr Pratibha Ray examined the submissions. The committee recommended restoration of original Odia names where distortions had crept into official English spellings.
Citizens can now study the proposals and share their views. The government has opened a one-month window for comments and suggestions.
Responses may be sent to the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Lok Seva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar-751001. Citizens may also email their suggestions to isbdrrev.od@od.gov.in or revsec.od@od.gov.in.
Officials emphasised that Odia holds Classical Language status and is one of India’s 22 scheduled languages. Correct representation of Odia names in English strengthens linguistic identity and cultural heritage. The initiative seeks to preserve authenticity while ensuring administrative clarity.
