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Synopsis The present study seeks to study factionalism in Orissa with special reference to an Orissan village, Nuapada, in the district of Ganjam located in the southern part of Orissa, which came into existence in 1936 and is characterized by backwardness and under development. With eight per cent of its population living in rural areas, have, naturally, a rural and agricultural background. Casteism still dominates rural Orissa and the village Nuapada is not an exception to it. Every caste has its own traditions, customs and its own way of life. There are also kinship groups which have developed different factions in the villages based on socio-political and economic considerations. The introduction of adult franchise and Panchayats have increased the role of factions in the rural areas of Orissa.