The 26th Odisha Science and Environment Congress and the first International Conference on Science and Technology Innovation for Sustainable Green Frontiers (SGF-2025) kicked off at KIIT University on Friday, marking a significant step toward promoting scientific and environmental research.

KIIT Announces ₹1 Lakh Annual Award for Chemists

Inaugurating the event, KIIT & KISS Founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta announced a new ₹1 lakh annual award to honour a distinguished chemist every year for their lifetime contribution to Chemistry.
This initiative aims to encourage excellence and innovation in the field.

Joint Initiative to Promote Sustainability and SDGs

The conference, jointly organised by the Odisha Environment Society (OES) and KIIT University, will run until November 30.
With the theme “Science and Technology Innovation”, the event focuses on how scientific advancements can help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and address emerging environmental challenges.

Distinguished Guests Attend Inaugural Ceremony

Several eminent dignitaries graced the inauguration, including:

• Dr. Arun Kumar Rath, Former Secretary to the Government of India

• Prof. T. K. Bastia, Director General (ECS), DRDO Bengaluru

• Prof. S. N. Kundu, Coordinator, Odisha Environment Society

• Jayakrishna Panigrahi, President, OES

• Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT Deemed to be University

Their presence underscored the growing recognition of Odisha’s role in scientific and environmental initiatives.

Participation of Over 450 Delegates

More than 450 delegates from Odisha and other states participated in the event, reflecting the Congress’s expanding national prominence and its impact on scientific discourse.

Speakers Highlight Importance of SDGs

Resource persons and speakers discussed the global evolution of the SDGs from 2016 to 2030, emphasizing the central role of science and technology in achieving sustainability, mitigating climate challenges, and shaping greener futures.

Eminent Scientists Felicitated

As part of the inauguration, several distinguished scientists were honoured for their outstanding contributions:

• Professor Lambdar Prasad Singh, Physicist

• Padma Shri Professor Aditya Prasad Dash, Biologist

• Professor Vinod Chandra Chowdhury, Environmental Scientist

• Dr. Vinay Kumar Das, Mechanical Scientist

Their recognition celebrated decades of impactful research and innovation.

Jayakrishna Panigrahi Honoured for Long-standing Service

Dr. Jayakrishna Panigrahi received special recognition for completing 15 years of dedicated service as the Convener of the Odisha Science and Environment Congress, acknowledging his significant role in shaping the event’s legacy.

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Global Recognition for a Lifelong Mission of Service

In yet another international acknowledgment of his tireless work in education, social transformation, and humanitarian service, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, was conferred an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) by SRM University, Sonepat, during its Third Convocation Ceremony held today.

The honour was presented by Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Vice-President of India, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Dr. T.R. Paarivendhar, Founder Chancellor of SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Chennai; Prof. Paramajit S. Jaswal, Vice-Chancellor, SRM University Sonepat; and Prof. V. Samuel Raj, Registrar.

A Testament to Transformative Leadership

The honorary degree marks the 69th such recognition conferred upon Dr. Samanta by universities across India and the world. This remarkable achievement underscores his unparalleled contribution to empowering marginalized and underprivileged communities through free and inclusive education, particularly in Odisha.

In its official citation, SRM University praised Dr. Samanta as “the flagbearer of service without boundaries, education without discrimination, and humanity without compromise.” The institution commended his visionary leadership and his relentless efforts toward the upliftment of the poorest of the poor, transforming lives through education and compassion.

Gratitude and Continued Commitment

Expressing heartfelt thanks, Dr. Samanta said he was humbled by the recognition and extended gratitude to the Academic Council and Board of Management of SRM University for the honour.
“I dedicate this recognition to all the students, staff, and supporters of KIIT and KISS who have made our shared dream of inclusive education possible,” he remarked.

He further emphasized that such recognitions motivate him to continue his mission of education-driven social change, aligning with his vision of transforming society through compassion, equality, and opportunity for all.

About Dr. Achyuta Samanta

Dr. Samanta, a Padma Shri awardee, is an internationally celebrated educationist, philanthropist, and social reformer. He founded the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) — two globally acclaimed institutions dedicated to providing quality education, healthcare, and empowerment to thousands of tribal and underprivileged students.

With this recognition from SRM University, Dr. Samanta’s legacy as a pioneer in humanitarian education and inclusive growth continues to inspire millions across India and beyond.

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