Odisha Day, or Utkala Dibasa

Published: 5th Apr, 2024

Context

On April 1, Odisha Day, or Utkala Dibasa, is celebrated to commemorate the formation of the state of Odisha.

Utkal Divas History

Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Day, is celebrated annually to mark the formation of the state of Odisha on April 1, 1936.
The new province of Odisha was formed after people’s continued struggle, which finally paid off on April 1, 1936.
This day marks the separation of Odisha from the combined Bihar and Orissa province during British rule in India.
Sir John Hubbak was the first governor of the state.
The state was originally called Orissa but the Lok Sabha passed the Orissa Bill, and Constitution Bill (113rd amendment), in March 2011 to rename it Odisha.
Odisha Day, also known as Vishuva Milan, is observed as a restricted holiday in the state.

Fact Box: Formation of States

Article 3 of the Constitution; explicitly lays down a procedure to alter the area, boundaries, or name of a state.
Four-step procedure Article 3 provides the following procedure:
- Presidential reference is sent to State Assembly
- After presidential reference, a resolution is tabled and passed in Assembly
- Assembly has to pass a Bill creating the new State/States
- A separate Bill has to be ratified by Parliament

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