UPSC Express

Currently Paika Rebellion of 1817 was in news. From the following statements which one correctly describe ‘Paikas’?
A.
The ruling dynasty of Andhra Pradesh
B.
The hunters of West Bengal
C.
The peasants of Odisha
D.
The Zamindars of Karnataka
Explanation :
Paikas were essentially the peasant-militias or traditional land-owning militia of the Gajapati rulers of Odisha who rendered military service to the king during times of war while taking up cultivation during times of peace.
They unfurled the banner of rebellion against the British under the leadership of Baxi Jagandhu Bidyadhara as early as 1817 to throw off the British yoke.
They revolted against the British after the later took over their rent-free land, 14 years after Odisha came under British rule in 1803