Demand for Formation of Tikiri Block Gains Momentum as Locals Intensify Agitation for Administrative Upgrade

Kashipur, May 06:: The demand by local residents to create a new block with Tikiri as the headquarters by bifurcating 24 panchayats of Kashipur block in Rayagada district has once again gained momentum.
During the district reorganization in 1993, boundaries had already been identified for forming a new block at Tikiri. Under the leadership of the then Tahasildar Trinath Nahak, a proposal map was prepared including eight panchayats—Tikiri, Kodipari, Dangasil, Kucheipadar, Podapadi, Bankamb, Shankarda, and Gorakhpur. Later, after panchayat reorganization, the number increased to 11.
While the issue has now taken a political turn, local residents assert that the demand for a separate block is justified. The demand has been ongoing for the past 33 years, with repeated memorandums submitted to departmental ministers and the Chief Minister through BDOs and district collectors at different times.
Tikiri already has key infrastructure such as a police station, forest range office, LAMPS, a nationalized bank, more than three high schools, other educational institutions, and a railway station. Additionally, major industrial projects like Utkal Alumina and Aditya Alumina refinery are located nearby, strengthening the economic case for forming a new block.
In September last year, Tikiri Sarpanch Jagabandhu Majhi, former Zilla Parishad member Binod Nayak, and former MLA Bibhishan Majhi submitted a memorandum to Rayagada District Collector Ashutosh Kulkarni regarding the demand.
With the population of Kashipur block exceeding one lakh and most panchayats located 25 to 35 kilometers away from the block headquarters, residents face significant expenses and difficulties in accessing administrative services. Reports indicate that people are once again preparing to approach the district collector’s office to press their demand.
Demand for Reorganization of 24 Panchayats into a New Block
The demand for forming a Tikiri block has gained renewed political significance, especially as the government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, is planning to create new blocks in various districts. Local leaders have extended support to the demand and urged the government to prioritize Tikiri under the new block policy.
If fulfilled, the demand is expected not only to ease the hardships of local residents but also to serve as a successful example of the state government’s development-oriented governance.