Sarat Chandra Mahalik of Raj Kanika ,who held prestigious post of Director General cum Secretary Post, Government of India as the first Odia from 1994 to 1996 died on Friday at Medant Hospital, Gurgaon at the age of 79 due to old age illness problem.
After retirement he had worked as Chairman, Orissa Electricity Regulatory Commission for two years. The Mahalik Committee headed by him during KP Singhdeo as Union Minister of Communication, had recommended for extension of Door Darshan Kendras.
Mahalik was the architect of computerisation in India Post. His contribution for establishment of Indian Institute of Mass Communication at Dhenkanal is praise worthy. Introduction of Rajadhani Channel, Metro Channel and Green Channel letter boxes in Postal Department was his innovative ideas. His wife Geeta Mahalik is a renowned Odisi dancer. Mahalick had completed his graduation from Ravenshaw College and Post Graduation from St Stephens College, New Delhi. His two daughters and son- in- law PK Swain, Chief Post Master General, Punjab Circle, were present at the hospital.