Bhubaneswar, 28 February (H.S.): The Odisha Government has decided to correct the distorted English names of various districts, sub-divisions, blocks and tehsils across the state and restore their original Odia names.

In this regard, Dr. Aravind Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, has written to all District Collectors seeking proposals for the proposed changes.

According to the communication, several place names currently used in official English records are distorted versions of their authentic Odia names. Such distortions, many of which date back to the British era, misrepresent the state’s linguistic and cultural identity and dilute the essence of Odia heritage.

For instance, the official English name of “Ali” tehsil is recorded as “AUL,” a spelling that reportedly emerged during British rule due to pronunciation difficulties. The department has noted the need to rectify such anomalies.

Earlier, detailed reports had been sought from all districts on the issue, and information has so far been received from 13 districts. Based on the reports, feedback was also obtained from legislators, Members of Parliament, and members of the public. Several new proposals have since been submitted to the department.

Dr. Padhee has directed District Collectors to review their earlier submissions and forward revised reports along with any fresh proposals within seven days. He informed that a comprehensive report will soon be prepared and placed before the government for further action.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda