Dr. Radhanath Rath
Dr. Radhanath Rath started his distinguished career in Journalism as Manager and Assistant Editor of the largest circulated Oriya daily “The Samaj” in 1919 and became its Editor in 1961. A powerful writer and speaker, journalism was closed to his heart.
Responding to the call of Utkalamani Gopabandhu Das, he gave up a lucrative offer of employment by the British Govt. Member of Odisha Legislative Assembly from 1946-1977, but for a brief period from 1961 to 1967. Appointed cabinet Minister in charge of Finance, Education, Forestry, and Agriculture from 1952 to 1961. Endowed with a phenomenal memory he was a great social reformer and fought for the upliftment of the downtrodden.
President Servants of the People Society ( Lok Sevak Mandal) and Chairman of its Odisha Branch. Gave new direction to the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology as its Pro-Chancellor. Chief Commissioner Odisha State Bharat Scouts and Guides and Ex-President of Bharat Sevak Samaj. He was associated with a large number of public bodies like Redcross, Panchayats, Divine Life Society, Indo-china Cultural Association, Indo Soviet Friendship Society, and President of Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha.
A distinguished writer, he was awarded Odisha Sahitya Academy Award in 1967 and awarded Padmabhusan in 1968. Received critic Circle of India award in 1987. All India Anubrata award in 1988. Utkal Ratna Samman in 1993. He was conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws (LL.D) by the Berhampur University in 1976.
Also, Learn About: The man who started the merger of princely states with India
