Prof. A. B. Ota, IAS (Rtd)

Professor A.B. Ota did his Master’s Degree, M.Phil. and Doctoral Degree in Anthropology from Utkal University under the supervision of Late Professor L.K. Mahapatra. After becoming Professor in Anthropology, he was inducted into Indian Administrative Service. He retired as Revenue Divisional Commissioner. Professor Ota has been the Director of the oldest tribal research institute of the Country (SCSTRTI in Odisha) for more than 14 years. He has occupied various positions like Director Tribal Welfare, Director Secondary Education, Director SCERT, and District Collector. He also has experience of working with UNWFP, UNICEF, World Bank and UNDP as an Anthropologist and as R&R Expert. Prof. Ota has the domain expertise in Tribal Development and Resettlement & Rehabilitation. He has travelled extensively to more than 20 countries being invited as an expert to deliver talks on R&R and Tribal Development. He has authored more than 40 books and many articles in journals of repute. Currently, he is the Director and Special Secretary, SCSTRTI Odisha & State Tribal Museum.