Angul: Angul sub-collector Basudev Satpathy, after having his engineering degree from Sambalpur, joined water research department in 1985. Though he began his career as an engineer, his desire to serve people made him join Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) in 2006. The sub-collector bares his heart during an informal chat with this correspondent.
1: How was the experience during the initial days of your career?
I got the opportunity to serve people after joining as the additional tehsildar of Bhubaneswar. I still recall the flood havoc in Balipatna area in 2009 when I played my part in rehabilitating people of at least five panchayats. I consider it a major success of my career as a public servant.
2: What else do you like apart from your profession?
I enjoy watching Odia songs and plays on television. I don’t like to watch such programmes in public. Besides, I have interest in reading newspapers and listening to music.
3: Who are your favoutite writers?
I have read a lot of Pratibha Roy. I also liked ‘Chha Mana Atha Gunth’ by Fakir Mohan Senapati.
4: How do you maintain your physical fitness?
I do pranayam in the morning followed by light snacks. I also do some physical exercise to maintain my fitness.
5: What is your message for the Gen X?
The youths should take care of their parents and work for the uplift of the weaker section.
6: What are your most liked items cooked by your wife?
Greens, roasted potato and brinjal are my favourite.
PNN