About DRDA :
Rayagada district is known as the most famous region of the state because of its longest human history. Although the district came into existence on the 2nd Octoberr 1992, it has long and glorious historical records evident by copper plates, rock inscriptions as well as different coins, which clearly indicate the region was the centre of attraction in all ages. In the third century B.C., during the reign of Ashoka the Great, it was covered under Kalinga empire. The hilly track between river Languli and Prachi language as Bansadhara and Nagabali, as evident by Andhra Historical Journal XXVII edition at page 46, was famous for spices. Another Bhojpur Rock inscription in Brahmi of Rastrik King Mandhata adds some facts about this region. Later, Rastriks were defeated by Kharvela, the only Aryan Emperor of Odisha, at the time of Samudra Gupta himself during the Chawpagada battle. The rock inscription of Allahbad inscribed by Mahamantri Harisena provides evidence to this effect. Later, the ruins of mud fort and historical idol of Mahakal Bhairab found at Champikota very near to Rayagada makes it clear that this is the ancient Champagada Fort.