The highest civilian honor in the state of Odisha is the:

Utkal Ratna
Utkalmani
Kalinga Samman
Utkal Prabha

The correct answer is: a) Utkal Ratna.

Utkal Ratna is the highest civilian honor in the state of Odisha. It is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the state in the fields of art, literature, education, science, social service, and public life.

The award was instituted in 1962 by the Government of Odisha. The first recipient of the award was the freedom fighter and social reformer Gopabandhu Das.

The award consists of a gold medal, a certificate, and a cash prize. It is presented by the Governor of Odisha on the occasion of Odisha Day, which is celebrated on 1 April every year.

The other options are incorrect because:

  • Utkalmani is a title given to eminent scholars in Odisha.
  • Kalinga Samman is a state award given to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in the field of sports.
  • Utkal Prabha is a state award given to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in the field of journalism.