Smita Mishra 
FEATURE: Deba Prasad Dash, a seasoned officer of the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS), has been appointed as the new Director of the Information and Public Relations (I&PR) Department of Odisha. His elevation to this key position comes at a pivotal time when the state government is seeking to enhance transparency, foster public engagement, and amplify its outreach through strategic communication. With a strong administrative background and a dynamic approach to public affairs, Dash is expected to infuse fresh energy into the department.
Dash’s appointment comes after the retirement of Saroj Samal, who held the post until the end of February 2025. Alongside this new role, Deba Prasad Dash has been promoted to the rank of Special Secretary, a designation that underscores his competence and the trust reposed in him by the state government. He will also continue to serve in the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture, where he has previously made notable contributions.
Known for his commitment to cultural preservation and promotion, Dash has consistently championed Odisha’s linguistic and literary identity. His dual role—leading both the I&PR Department and holding a senior position in the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department—makes him an influential figure in shaping the state’s internal narrative and external image. His appointment is particularly significant as Odisha prepares to ramp up its engagement with citizens through both traditional and digital media platforms.
The I&PR Department plays a vital role in the interface between the government and the public. It not only disseminates information about government policies, achievements, and programs but also gauges public opinion and feedback. With Dash’s track record of administrative efficiency and his passion for culture and communication, the department is expected to become more agile and responsive to the evolving needs of governance in a digital era.
Observers within the administrative circle believe that Dash’s leadership will strengthen the department’s outreach initiatives, particularly in rural and underserved areas. His vision is likely to encompass both innovation and inclusion, ensuring that the messaging from the government resonates across all sections of society. His past work indicates a strong leaning toward community engagement and the use of local languages and idioms to drive impactful communication.
Beyond bureaucracy, Deba Prasad Dash is regarded as someone with a nuanced understanding of Odisha’s socio-cultural fabric. His involvement in the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture highlights his deep respect for the state’s heritage. This background equips him well to align the government’s communication strategy with the values and sentiments of the people, ensuring that public discourse remains grounded, informative, and inspiring.
As Director of I&PR, Dash is also expected to play a strategic role in managing government campaigns, handling media relations, and supporting public awareness drives across sectors. His stewardship will be crucial in a time when effective communication is central to governance, especially in areas such as public health, education, welfare schemes, and disaster preparedness.
The state government’s decision to entrust this crucial responsibility to Deba Prasad Dash reflects not only his administrative experience but also his ability to handle complex assignments with clarity and purpose. His new role brings together communication, culture, and coordination—three pillars that are essential for building a more connected and informed Odisha.
With a blend of vision, experience, and a strong sense of cultural identity, Deba Prasad Dash stands poised to lead the I&PR Department into a new era of proactive governance and meaningful public engagement.
