The Odia word
Paika is derived from
Padatika or foot soldier. They were a class of military retainers recruited from a variety of social groups to render martial services in return for hereditary rent-free lands and titles. Most Paiks were recruited from
Khandayat,
Gopal (cowherd) and
Chasa (peasant) communities.
Separate Caste The Caste based consensus introduced by the Britishers led to the formation of a separate Paika caste. ==History==