Rayagada (ରାୟଗଡ଼ା) is a district in southern Odisha, India, bordering Andhra Pradesh. Its headquarters is Rayagada town. Known for forested hills, river valleys and a strong Adivasi presence, the district combines agricultural landscapes with important industrial centres.
Communities including the Dongria Kondh and Soura contribute distinctive languages, festivals, crafts and cultural traditions. Odia and Telugu are also spoken. Farming, forest produce, trade and industries such as alumina processing and paper manufacturing support livelihoods. Notable places include the Maa Majhighariani Temple in Rayagada town and the Niyamgiri hills, which hold deep cultural and ecological significance for local Indigenous communities.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, rural roads, healthcare and access to education in remote settlements. Residents also care about employment, agricultural support, forest rights and the effects of mining and industry on land and water. Balancing economic development with environmental protection and Adivasi communities’ rights remains a central public issue.