The ‘Paika Bidroha’ (Paika rebellion) of 1817 will be renamed in the history books as ‘the First War of Independence’
- The renamed edition of the books will be added from next year.
- The decision is taken to mark the bicentenary of the Paika rebellion, and added that the Centre has allocated Rs. 200 crore for commemorating it across the country.
- “Paika Bidroha will find a place as the First War of Independence against the British Rule in the history books
- Paikas were peasant militia under the Gajapati rulers of Odisha who rendered military service to the king during times of war.
- They rebelled against the British rule under the leadership of Bakshi Jagabandhu Bidyadhara as early as 1817.
