Nuapada (ନୂଆପଡ଼ା) is a district in western Odisha, India, bordering Chhattisgarh. Its administrative headquarters is Nuapada town. Formed from the former Kalahandi district in 1993, it is known for its forested hills, agricultural landscapes and the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary.
The district’s communities include a significant tribal population, with local traditions reflected in festivals, music, dance and crafts. Odia and regional speech varieties are used alongside tribal languages. Farming, agricultural labour and forest-based livelihoods support much of the economy, while towns serve as centres for trade and public services. Notable places include the Sunabeda plateau and the Yogeswar temple at Patora, near the Upper Jonk reservoir.
Common civic concerns include reliable irrigation, drought resilience, safe drinking water and access to healthcare and education. Residents also care about rural roads, employment opportunities, seasonal migration and effective delivery of welfare schemes. Forest rights and wildlife conservation are important issues for communities living near protected areas.