The award is instituted in the memory of the eminent Australian and humanitarian Rugby player Sir Edward, who was born in rural Wangaratta in 1907. Sir Edward was a celebrated rugby player in Australia and has the honour of a commemorative coin minted in his honour by the Federal Government.

KISS Rugby Team put up an impressive performance in Australia winning six out of eight matches it played. These matches were played at four locations such as Darwin, Sidney, Adelaide, and Melbourne of Australia. Hadi Dhangada won the heart of Australians by his extraordinary performance in all the matches. Sahadeb Majhi, another member of the KISS Team, was adjudged the Best Player of the series.

Hadi Dhangada Majhi, from Malkanagiri district of Odisha, is the first boy from Bonda tribe to play the international rugby. His father Mangal Majhi, besides working in the agriculture field, collects timber and food from the forest to take care of his family.

Dr. A. Samanta, Founder, KISS & KIIT Group of Institution congratulated Hadi Dhangada Majhi and Sahadeb Majhi for their resounding success and expressed confidence that they will bring many more laurels for Odisha and the country.

A National Workshop on Digital Library, under auspices of the Indian Library Association (ILA) was inaugurated in the KIIT campus on Tuesday by Chancellor of KIIT University Dr. Hari Gautam. The two-day, workshop will deliberate on the advantages of digital libraries.

Dr. Hair Gautam said, "Library is the most important infrastructure, upon which the superstructure of quality education rests." The KIIT realizes the need to adopt the latest technology in this important aspect of academics, he added ILA President Kautilya Shukla, outlining the objective of the workshop, said it would expose the library professionals to the intricacies of the digital libraries and create a symbiotic interaction with IT professionals in respect of the management of the electronic in-formation.

The workshop on digital library, digital library services and IPR issues. Among other, ILA general secretary R Chandra, Pro-Chancellor KIIT University S.K.Dube, Vice-Chancellor S.C. De Sarkar, Registrar L.C. Amarnathan and Mr. Ranjit Kumar Das, Organising Secretary also spoke on the occasion.

The Under 14 Rugby Team of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) was felicitated by Shri M. C. Bhandare, His Excellency the Governor of Odisha at a reception organized at the Raj Bhawan here on Tuesday. The KISS Rugby Team, which played a series of invitational matches in Australia from 10th August to 24th August, 2008, arrived at Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneswar on Monday after a very successful campaign.

Congratulating the KISS Rugby Team for their resounding success, Shri Bhandare said that their achievements are a matter of pride for the State as well as country. He wished the team best wishes for their future tournaments. KISS Rugby Team won six out of eight matches that they played in Australia.

These matches were arranged by North Territory Union, South Territory Union, Lloyd McDermott Foundation, NSW Rugby Union, Manly Rugby Academy, Melbourne Grammar School and Victoria Rugby Union. These were played at four locations such as Darwin, Sidney, Adelaide and Melbourne of Australia.

Speaking at the felicitation ceremony, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder, KISS and KIIT Group of Institutions said the achievements of the tribal boys of KISS prove that with proper grooming tribals can be at par with the best in all walks of life. He expressed his gratitude to Indian Consul General and High Commissioner, Mr. Sujan Chinmay and Ms. Anita Nayar for their wholehearted support to the KISS Rugby Team during their Australia tour.

The Under 14 rugby team of KISS played a series of friendly matches in Australia from 10th August to 24th August, 2008 arranged by North Territory Union, South Territory Union, Lloyd McDermott Foundation, NSW Rugby Union, Manly Rugby Academy, Melbourne Grammar School and Victoria Rugby Union. It was a very successful campaign by KISS Rugby Team, which won six out of eight matches it played. These matches were played at four locations such as Darwin, Sidney, Adelaide, and Melbourne of Australia.

The KISS Team surprised the Australians by the techniques they applied in different matches. That the tribal boys from India could play rugby of such a high caliber was beyond the belief of many. The Team was highly praised by the Australian people and the Rugby fans in Australia. Messages of appreciation also poured for Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KISS and KIIT Group of Institutions and the mentor of these tribal boys.

Dr. Samanta was present at two matches in Sidney, which gave the team mental courage for their success. Indian Consul General and High Commissioner, Mr. Sujan Chinmay and Ms. Anita Nayar extended great support to the team. They also congratulated Dr. Samanta for his concern for tribal children, in general, and for mentoring a world class rugby team, in particular.

The team was fully taken care of by the Indian Embassy at Australia till the end of schedule. While expressing his gratitude to the Consul General and Indian High Commissioner for their support, Dr. Samanta said it is a great success for the Oriyas as well as tribal community in general.

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, is the only institute of its type in the country, which provides education from KG to PG level, vocational training and all the basic necessities of life to 7000 tribal students free of cost. The Rugby Squad of KISS shot into international fame in September last year after beating favourites South Africa in the final of Under 14 Rugby World Cup played in London.

Members of KISS U 14 Rugby Squad: Rajkishore Murmu (Captain), Bikash Chandra Murmu (Vice Captain), Chittaranjan Murmu, Babula Malka, Bukai Hansda, Niranjan Biswal, Hadidhangda Majhi, Sahadev Majhi, Gorang Jamuda, Narasingh Kerai, Barial Beshra and Ganesh Hembram. They belong to Kolho, Bonda, Bathudi, Santhal and Kandha tribes. Mr. Rudrakesh Jena will coach the team in the tournament

KISS Rugby Squad is touring Australia from 12th August, 2008 to play a series of invitational matches with local teams in four cities such as Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Darwin. Earlier in the month, the KISS Rugby Squad had won against Kasurino Rugby (40 - 12) and Darwin Rugby Club (20 - 15). The tour will conclude on 24th August, 2008. KISS Rugby Squad is being sponsored by EXIM Bank of India.

Joys of the KIIT and 7000 tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Science (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, knew no bounds as they heard about this remarkable victory. Founder of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta said that the victory of KISS Rugby Squad is a matter of great pride for KISS, KIIT and tribal community. He wishes the team all the best for their final clash with Victoria Rugby Union.

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KIIT), a sister concern of KIIT, is the only institute of its type in the country, which provides education from KG to PG level, vocational training and all the basic necessities of life to 7000 tribal students free of cost. The Rugby Squad of KISS shot into international fame in September last year after beating favourites South Africa in the final of Under 14 Rugby World Cup played in London.

Among others, Prof. S. K. Dube, Pro Chancellor, KIIT University, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar,
Vice Chancellor, Mr. L. C. Amarnathan, Registar and Engineer Umakanta Mishra, Principal, Kalinga Polytechnic also spoke on the occasion. A large number of faculty members, students and staff members attended the Foundation Day Ceremony.

Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder KIIT Group of Institutions extended his well wishes to all the students and staffs of KIIT and KISS and asked everyone to rededicate themselves for the cause of nation building with renewed vigour. KIIT is an expression of free, progressive and assertive India, he said.

Students of all the wings of KIIT educational conglomerate presented an assortment of colourful programmes on the occasion. Outstanding achievers from among students were honoured.

The Australian tour of U 14 Rugby Squad of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) is being sponsored by EXIM Bank of India. The Team will take part in four different rugby grounds in Australia like Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Darwin from 12th August, 2008 to 24th August, 2008. The squad shot into international fame in September last year after beating favourites South Africa in the final of Under 14 Rugby World Cup played in London.

Congratulating the KISS team for their stupendous start of the tour, Indian Consul General to Australia, Mr. Sujan Chinmaya said that it is remarkable for the tribal boys to outplay the host teams on their home turf. He also congratulated the coach, Mr. Rudrakesha Jena and the Chief Executive Officer, KISS, Dr. Prasanta Routaray. Expressing satisfaction over their outstanding performance, Founder of KIIT Group of Institutions and KISS, Dr. A. Samanta said that it is a matter of great pride for KISS, KIIT, the State of Odisha and tribal community of the country, in general.

Back home, joys of 7000 tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Science (KISS) and thousands of students and staff of KIIT Group of Institutions knew no bounds as they heard about the first victory. Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences is a sister concern of KIIT Group of Institutions, Bhubaneswar. It is the only institute of its type in the country, which provides education from KG to PG level, vocational training and all the basic necessities of life to 7000 tribal students free of cost.

Members of KISS U 14 Rugby Squad: Rajkishore Murmu (Captain), Bikash Chandra Murmu (Vice Captain), Chittaranjan Murmu, Babula Malka, Bukai Hansda, Niranjan Biswal, Hadidhangda Majhi, Sahadev Majhi, Gorang Jamuda, Narasingh Kerai, Barial Beshra and Ganesh Hembram. They belong to Kolho, Bonda, Bathudi, Santhal and Kandha tribes. Mr. Rudrakesh Jena team coach.

"All expenses of KISS Rugby Squad for this tournament are being borne by Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of India," informed Mr. Venkat Subramanium and Mr. S. Srinivas, CMD and Director of the bank respectively. Mr. Subramanium also laid foundation stone of a rugby field to be developed exclusively for rugby coaching for the tribal students of KISS.

Wishing the team best wishes for a successful tour, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder KIIT Group of Institutions and KISS, expressed confidence that the tribal boys of KISS will make KIIT, the State of Odisha and the country proud on yet another occasion by their performance on foreign turf. KISS, the only institute of its type in the country, provides education from KG to PG level, vocational training and all the basic necessities of life to 10000 tribal students free of cost, he said, while expressing satisfaction over remarkable achievement of the students in the fields of academics, co-curricular activities and sports at national and international level.

The Team will take part in four different rugby grounds in Australia like Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. Students and staff community of KIIT Group of Institutions, along with people of the State in general, will be closely watching and cheering the performance of KISS team. KISS rugby squad shot into international fame in September last year after beating favourites South Africa in the final of Under 14 Rugby World Cup played in London.

Members of the squad: Rajkishore Murmu (Captain), Bikash Chandra Murmu (Vice Captain), Chittaranjan Murmu, Babula Malka, Bukai Hansda, Niranjan Biswal, Hadidhangda Majhi, Sahadev Majhi, Gorang Jamuda, Narasingh Kerai, Barial Beshra and Ganesh Hembram. They belong to Kolho, Bonda, Bathudi, Santhal and Kandha tribes. Mr. Rudrakesh Jena will coach the team in the tournament.

Speaking at the valedictory ceremony, Bijaya Kumar Ray of CAPART expressed confidence that the orientation programme might have greatly benefited the young professionals. CARPAT Vigilance Director, Mr. R. P. Mina said that rural development is not just a programme, it's a mission for the rural India. He suggested the young professionals to serve the rural India through this mission. Expressing gratitude to Dr. A. Samanta, Founder, KIIT Group of Institutions, he said KIIT's commitment to the social service is commendable.

The programme provided 55 participants from eight states, like Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, Odisha, Assam, Nagaland and Meghalaya, awareness about various rural development schemes and programmes implemented by the Government and Non-government agencies in India. It also equipped them with the knowledge and skills for organizing economic and social development activities. Besides classroom segment by accomplished practitioners and academicians in the field of rural development, the orientation programme also featured field tour to villages of Sambalpur districts.

Among others, Prof. L. K. Vaswani, Director of KIIT School of Management and Dr. P. Nayak, Dean were present on the occasion.

A safety and occupational health awareness programme for the engineering students of Odisha was inaugurated in KIIT by Sri Ajit Kumar Tripathy, IAS, Chief Secretary and Chief development Commissioner, Odisha on 26th July, 2008. The two-day awareness programme is jointly organized by KIIT University and Labour and Employment Department, Government of Odisha. More than 200 participants are attending the programme from 13 engineering colleges and seven universities.

Inaugurating the programme, Sri Ajit Kumar Tripathy, IAS, Chief Secretary and Chief Development Commissioner said that the objectives of the programme are to enhance the global awareness on the serious diseases and the urgent need for collective effort to tackle the situation. He appreciated the two organizations - KIIT and the Department of Labour and Employment - for joining hands on the issue of occupational health.

Welcoming the participants, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder, KIIT Group of Institutions said that KIIT is committed to strive for better and healthier environment. This type of awareness programme for the students will be beneficial in achieving our objectives, he added. Shri G. D. Rath, Secretary, MDC on SHE proposed the vote of thanks.

Among others, Shri Subrat Tripathy, IRTS, Chief Commercial Manager, ECoR, Bhubaneswar, Shri H. S. Sethi, Managing Director, ESSAR Steel Plant, Bhubaneswar, Dr. D. P. Roy, Vice Chancellor, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Dr. C. R. Mohapatra, IFS (Rtd), Vice President, MDC on SHE, Shri Ashok Kumar Tripathy, IAS, Commissioner-cum- Secretary to Govt., Labour and Employment Dept., Odisha and Prof. S. C. De. Sarkar, Vice Chancellor, KIIT University were present of the occasion.

This is a humble attempt by East Coast Railway to serve the residents of Odisha, said Shri Jena after inaugurating the PRS, while thanking KIIT University for extending its valued assistance in terms of providing logistical support. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Samanta expressed his gratitude to the Chairman and the officials of Indian Railway and East Coast Railway for setting up this facility at KIIT. As a part of its social responsibility, KIIT is committed to develop infrastructural facilities for the benefit of the people of the area, he said.

The new Passenger Reservation System at KIIT will benefit its 12000 students and 5000 staff, besides general public living in Chandrashekharpur area of Bhubaneswar. Passengers can purchase reservation tickets from any station to any station of Indian Railways from this counter. The residents of Bhubaneswar can avail the facilities of this PRS which will initially be open from 08.00 hrs to 14.00 hrs on all weekdays except Sunday. This is the 26th PRS of Khurda Road Division, 60th PRS of ECoR and 4th PRS of Bhubaneswar.

The Railway Administration is providing manpower and technical equipment, while KIIT University has provided accommodation for running this PRS Unit.

Inaugurating the event, Hon'ble Justice Dr. B.S. Chauhan outlined the focus of the lecture on the eminent legal luminary like Justice H. R. Khanna. Recalling his contributions to the Constitution, Dr. Chauhan said that Justice Khanna raised his voice during the period of emergency. Hon'ble Justice Ranganatha Mishra presided over the lecture.

Dr. A. Samanta, in his welcome address, said that lectures of this nature are valuable for the students and lawyers alike. Presence of judicial and legal luminaries will greatly inspire the students of KIIT Law School, he added.

Prof. S. C. De Sarakar, Vice Chancellor, KIIT University and Prof. Faizan Mustafa, Director of KIIT Law School also spoke on the occasion. Among others, all Directors, Deans, Principals and a large number of students and staffs attended the lecture.

Prof. Shishir K Dube, FNAE, FIMS, FIGU, has joined KIIT University as its Pro Chancellor. Intellectual capital of KIIT University has received a further boost with the joining of Prof. Dube, who has been the former Director of Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. Besides, teaching team of all the departments of KIIT School of Technology has been augmented with appointment of 45 faculty members at different levels. Prof. Dube is internationally recognized for his pioneering contributions in the field of coastal engineering especially in storm surge prediction in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. He is responsible for the development of user friendly softwares for real time operational surge prediction which under the auspices of WMO/TCP have not only been transferred to the India Meteorological Department but also to the National Weather Services of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand for their operational application.

Joining of an internationally renowned academician like Prof. Dube has greatly encouraged the University faculty, students, staffs and the administration. Not very long ago, KIIT's reputation as a leading professional education university in the country had got a shot in the arm with Dr. Hari Gautam, former Chairman of UGC, taking over as its Chancellor.

This is not the first appointment of Dr. Samanta, a well known educational entrepreneur, in the national bodies. Last month, Dr. Samanta was nominated as a Member of the Executive Committee of AICTE, the apex body to regulate technical and professional education in India. Earlier this year, he was appointed as the Member of UGC, the highest body to regulate higher education in the country.

Dr. Samanta expressed his gratitude to the Ministry and the Chairman of the Coir Board for appointing him to this important office. He assured that he will discharge all responsibilities associated with the office diligently.

KIIT has a placement record of 98 percent with an average salary of 4.20 lac per annum, the survey observes. It has put KIIT in the same league as PSG College, Coimbatore, BMS Institute, Bangalore, BITS, Pilani, BITS, Mesra and GL Bajaj Institute, Noida. Such a high ranking for KIIT in placements was due to the incredible campus placement record of the institute in the last two years. Scores of reputed companies in both IT and non IT sector visited KIIT for campus placements in 2007 and 2008, resulting in near cent percent placement. Microsoft offered a record package of Rs. 9 lac per annum to eight graduates of KIIT University in 2007 and 2008 respectively.

The survey, which is conducted every year to reveal the names of topmost colleges in the country, evaluates the professional colleges on five parameters - intellectual capital, industry interface, infrastructure, placement performance and pedagogic system. KIIT has substantially improved its ranking this year from its standing in the previous years. It was ranked 37th in 2007 survey report and 100th in the year before. KIIT also has the distinction of being the only institute in Odisha to feature in this elite list of private engineering colleges. Sharp improvement in the ranking of KIIT points to the growing confidence of academic community, students and guardians on this University. What makes KIIT's achievement special is the fact that while rest of the colleges figuring in the list have a history of 50 to 100 years, KIIT is hardly ten years old.

The news came as a pleasant surprise to the founder members, faculties and students of KIIT University. Dr. Hari Gautam, Chancellor of KIIT and Ex Chairman, UGC thanked the officials of the magazine for conducting such a vast survey among all the engineering institutes of India. It will go a long way in enhancing the quality of technical education as well as boosting the morals of young institutes like KIIT, he opined.

Dr. A. Samanta, Founder of KIIT Group of Institutions expressed his satisfaction on the sharp jump in KIIT's rank and assured to continue his endeavour for upgrading quality of education at KIIT. It will not be surprising to find KIIT among top ten engineering colleges in the country in near future, he said.

The survey which conducted every year to reveal the names of 100 topmost colleges of the country; focuses on five basic parameters such as intellectual capital, pedagogic system, industry interface, infrastructure and facilities and placements. However, while most of the colleges figuring in the list have a history of 50 to 100 years, KIIT is only ten-years-old. KIIT has substantially improved its rank this year compared to the previous years. It was ranked 37th in 2007 and 100th in the year before.

The news came as a pleasant surprise to the academic community of the State, founder members of KIIT, its faculties and students. Chancellor of the university and ex-chairman of UGC Dr. Hari Gautam, thanked the officials of the magazine for conducting such a vast survey, which will go a long way in enhancing the quality of technical education as well as boosting the morals of young institutes like KIIT. Founder of the university Dr. Achuta Samanta expressed his satisfaction on the sharp jump in KIIT's rank and assured to continue his endeavour to upgrade the quality of education in KIIT. Attributing the achievement to the blessings of God, he said it will not be surprising to find KIIT among top ten engineering colleges of the country in near future.

An exhibition for the youth by the NSS participants of State level National Integration camp was inaugurated by Sri Chandrasekhar Sahu, Hon'ble Union Minister of Rural Development, Govt. of India at KIIT campus on Thursday. A week long State level National Integration camp was inaugurated on 18th June 2008.

Inaugurating the exhibition Sri Sahu told that the young participants from different parts of the country would be able to understand the life and culture of people living in different parts of the country, which signifies the 'unity in diversity' aspect of India. This type of camp has given a platform for the young participants to inculcate ideas and values, which will be reflected in their future life he added while addressing the gathering.

Speaking at the function Dr. Hari Gautam, Chancellor, KIIT University expressed that this type of camp is a good means of expressing our national solidarity and achieving the goal of national unity. He also outlined the role of government in empowering the youth for National Integration.

Among others Mr. S.P. Pattanaik Zonal NYKS, Prof. L. K. Vaswani, Director of KIIT School of Management and School of Rural Management, Prof.J. R. Mohanty, KIIT Programme Coordinator NSS wing were also present. A seminar on "Role of Youth in National Integration and Nation Building" was also organized.

The camp will also feature programmes and activities such as Morning Prayer, Knit India Exhibition, rallies, pada yatra, regional language learning and songs. Know India quiz contest will be organized on daily basis to create lasting impact on the young minds towards their personality development as well as social and national responsibility.

Before holding the valedictory function of the camp evaluation and feed back session for the participants will be organized by the camp commandant. The 23 State Level National Integration Camp is a good means of expressing our national solidarity and achieve the goal of national unity.

Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder KIIT Group of Institutions was felicitated by His Excellency Shri. Muralidhar Chandrakante Bhandare, Hon'ble Governor of Odisha at a function organized by 'Odisha Citizen Forum' at Jayadev Bhaban on 8.6.2008. He was felicitated for the first ever oriya person to be a member of the United Grants Commission (UGC) as well as Member of the Executive Committee of All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Other Organizations such as educational trusts, NGOs, musicians, jounalists and others also felicitated Dr. Samanta on the occasion.

Speaking at the ceremony, His Excellency Shri. Muralidhar Chandrakante Bhandare said that it is a rare achievement for a person to occupy the dual prestigious offices. Appreciating Dr. Samanta' s contribution towards the revolution of education in Odisha, Shri. Bhandare said that membership of Dr. Samanta, a noted educational and social entrepreneur, in the UGC & AICTE Executive Committee will give a momentum to the qualitative and quantitative growth of technical and professional education system in the State in particular and in the country in general.

Expressing his gratitude to the organizations who have felicitated him, Dr. Samanta thanked them for the honour bestowed on him.

Among others Bimalendu Mohanty, Ex-VC Utkal Culture University, Shri. Pradosh Pattanaik, Sr. Journalist, Pradyumna Sathpathy, President Odisha Citizen Forum and others were present on the occasion.

KIIT University, in association with the Odisha Environmental society (OES), celebrated the World Environment Day on Thursday at the KIIT campus. The function was inaugurated by Hon'ble Governor Shri Murlidhar Chandrakant Bhandare in the presence of PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wild Life Warden Mr. B.K Patnaik and Chancellor of KIIT University, Prof Hari Gautam and other dignitaries.

Bhandare, referring to the theme or slogan for this year's World Environmental Day, "Kick the Habit: Towards a Low Carbon Economy," said, "We have to put special focus on the emission of greenhouse gas and also to think seriously on how to reduce them. The need of the hour is to find out means to promote low carbon economy with a view to shaping a better and healthier future".

He said the very purpose of the observance of the day is to enhance the global awareness on the environment and the urgent need for collective effort to tackle the seriousness of its protection.

Appreciating the efforts of KIIT and OES for their joining hands on the most threatening issue of environmental degradation, Bhandare called for a global commitment to strive for a better and healthier future.

While elaborating the emerging climate change as one of the greatest environmental as well as social and economic threats, he observed the economic development process and luxurious lifestyle are becoming g increasingly responsible for its degradation.

Mr. B.K Patnaik referred to the causes of global warming and protection against it through fundamental rights in the Indian Constitution. Prof Gatuam said KIIT has shown its commitment to strive for better and healthier environment by planting tress in its different campuses . It would be an ecofrendly university in the future, he added.
KIIT University VC Prof S.C.De Sarkar and president of OES SN Patro were among the others who were present on the occasion. A book on "Biodiversity" was released by Governor Bhandare.

Professional education plays an important role in the social and economic development of our country. This fact was recognized by the policy makers early on resulting in the formation of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) right after independence in 1945 to ensure its qualitative as well as quantitative development in a coordinated and integrated manner. There has been notable growth in this sector in the last three decades with increasing role being played by the private sector.

Though starting a bit late, there has been a robust growth of professional education in Odisha too. Thanks to the commendable efforts by handful of educational entrepreneurs from the State, scenario today stands in sharp contrast with that in 1980s, when a Vast majority of students from Odisha desirous of quality technical education had to migrate to the south, the educational capital' of India, often paying a high price. It is satisfying to note that this 'migration' of students has now stopped and maybe, even reversed.

Our professional education system has been quick to respond to the opportunities thrown open by globalization and today, technical manpower of the country is respected all over the world. However, it will be fallacious to undermine the value of general education vis-à-vis professional education. Job market in the age of globalization provides equally lucrative opportunity to the worthy graduates of general streams of education Good companies look for professionals who have abundance of soft skill along with subject matter knowledge and are competent learners to cope with fast changing job market. We need to gear up our general education system, in the same fashion as the professional education system, to reap the full benefits of globalization.

Higher education, whether general or professional, has its roots in school education. It is true that if foundation is weak, superstructure built on it will also be weak. It is unfortunate that a vast majority of schools of the country are ill equipped to groom young minds to excel in the age of globalization. Lack of proper infrastructure and low teacher-student ratio are the major areas of concern. The present average teacher-student ratio in the country is 1.42. as against the optimum 1.25. The classrooms are shabby, dilapidated and often leaking. These problems specifically refer to the Government schools, where 85% of our students study. A minority of schools which are good are beyond the reach of a majority of population, because they are too expensive.

School education, therefore, should be the thrust area for the Government as well as guardians. Budgetary allocation on infrastructure development of schools needs to increase. Public private partnership in this all important sector of education needs to be encouraged to bring about much needed transparency and efficiency. Guardians, too, need to give as much importance to schooling of their children as they do for their higher education. These will go a long way in grooming our human resources with cutting edge competency to shine in the age of globalization.

Second University Level Advisory Committee Meeting 2008-09 of KIIT National Service Scheme Bureau was inaugurated by Dr. A. Samanta, Founder, KIIT Group of Institution and Chief Patron, ULAC in the presence of top officials of KIIT and NSS here on Monday.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Samanta informed that KIIT is providing education as well as social services. KIIT always extends its hand to do social service at the time of natural calamities, he informed, while advising the member of KIIT NSS wing to be visible by its innovative work in near future.

Prof. J. R. Mohanty, Programme Coordinator, NSS, KIIT University presented Action Plan 2008-09 while Russi Pattanaik presented the Annual Report of the KIIT NSS wing.

Later, National Integration Camp (NIC) Organizing Committee's preparatory meeting was also held. It is jointly organized by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, Govt. of India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Govt. of India. The meeting was attended by Mr. Suresh Chandra Pattanaik, IAS, Commissioner cum Secretary, Sports & Youth Affairs Dept., Govt.of Odisha, Dr. Hari Gautam, Chancellor KIIT University and other functionaries of NSS.

Raimat Tudo, a girl of KISS belonging to the Santal Tribe in Odisha, topped the school merit list by securing 67 percent. She is a bright student, who was awarded in 2006 by the SC & ST Development Department Govt. of Odisha for her excellent achievement in the matric result. As many as seven students passed in the first division, while 15 got second division. Remaining students managed to pass the examination.

Impressive pass record i.e 82% for the tribal students of KISS is no mean achievement considering the fact that State level pass percent in general colleges is much lower at 53%. It is a repeat show of the school in CHSE examination last year, pointing to the consistency in academic quality here.

The School has been achieving this unique feat since last so many years, adding another feather to the academic cap of KISS.

Expressing happiness over the impressive pass record of the KISS students, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder KISS and KIIT Group of Institutions hoped it will be 95% result in the coming year. Congratulating the students, he attributed the success to the hard work of the students and the blessings of God on these children of nature.

Dr. A. Samanta, Founder of KIIT Group of Institutions and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, has been nominated as a Member of the Executive Committee of All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The nomination was intimated vide AICTE letter number 12-19/Cons-EC/Admn.IV/2008 dated 23rd May 2008. He will hold the office for a tenure of three years, as per the AICTE

Dr. Samanta is also a Member of the University Grants Commission (UGC). He was appointed to the office in February this year, making him the first ever Odiya Member in UGC. Nomination of Dr. Samanta, a noted educational and social entrepreneur, in the AICTE Executive Committee will give a momentum to the qualitative and quantitative growth of technical and professional education system in the State in particular and in the country in general.

The development has resulted in a wave of happiness among the academic community in Odisha. It is a rare achievement for a person to occupy the dual offices of UGC Member as well as AICTE Executive Committee Member at the same time, they observed.

AICTE is the apex organization of the Government of India to regulate and plan the coordinated development of the technical and professional educational system throughout the country. It is vested with sweeping powers and is responsible for the proper maintenance of norms and standards in the technical and profession education system. AICTE Act 1987 provides for the constitution Executive Committee, which is the highest policy making body of AICTE.

While attributing the achievement to the blessings of the God, Dr. Samanta expressed gratitude to Shri Arjun Singh, Hon'ble Minister of HRD, Government of India and Chairman, AICTE for nominating him to the office and promised to discharge responsibilities associated with it diligently. Problems and priorities of higher education and technical education in Odisha will get due importance at the national level because of his presence in both UGC and AICTE, he assured.

Dr. Hari Gautam - Chancellor of KIIT University has said. "The nomation of Dr. A. Samanta as a member of the Executive Committee of All India Council for Technical Education by Government of India is a matter of pride and recognition to the KIIT University. Recently the Government of India recognizing the credentials of Dr. Samanta has nominated him as the member of University Grants Commission. This distinction is unique as no person so far has concurrently been the member of UGC and AICTE, both being the apex statutory bodies regulating the higher, technical and professional education in India.

KIIT University has now emerged as a promising fast growing Institution of excellence. It has become possible only because of the dedicated efforts, sacrifice and foresight with passion of this young man. The state of Odisha owes a lot to him for having provided a Class educational hub in the eastern part of India." We all congratulate him at this great achievement.

Students from Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) put up a spirited performance at U13 International Rugby festival played in London recently. Six students from KISS were part of Indian contingent in the tournament organized by Bishop's Stortford Rugby Football Club. Besides the students of KISS, six students each from Kolkata and Manipur also represented the Indian team.

Earlier, Kolkata's Tribal Rugby Club, as the Indian team was known, was invited to play in the U13 International Rugby festival by the Bishop's Stortford Rugby Football Club. The Indian team won most of the matches in the tournament, which was also participated by a number of rugby teams from England, Africa and Asia. Sudam Majhi of KISS was adjudged the Player of the Tournament.

Expressing happiness at the performance of the under 13 tribal students in the International Rugby festival, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder and Secretary KISS said that it was matter of pride for Odisha. This largest tribal school of the country has invitation to play international matches in many countries, he informed.

According to the sources, U14 KISS Rugby Team is going to play in Australia in August 2008. A series of friendly matches will be played at four places in Australia for one month. It may be recalled that KISS Rugby team had created a sensation by winning the U14 Rugby World Cup by beating South Africa in the final in London in September last year.

The KIIT Entrance Examination 2008 (KIITEE'08) conducted by KIIT University for admission into B.Tech, MCA, Law, BBA & BCA, and M.Sc Biotechnology programmes were declared today. Among 35,000 students who have appeared KIITEE, 2507 students found place in merit list for degree engineering programme, while 474, 301 and 609 students were selected for the MCA, Law and BBA &BCA respectively. Three hundred twenty students were cleared for M.Sc Biotechnology while 246 are for the Integrated M.Sc Biotechnology.

The entrance examination was held in 75 centres across the country on 3 and 4 May. Mr. Karnati Satyadeep topped the list for B.Tech by securing 327 marks while Mr. Asutosh Mishra topped among the MCA lists in the entrance.
Like every year the toppers of both B.Tech and MCA streams of KIITEE '08 would get full walver of fees. The management of KIIT has decided to offer special scholarships of Rs. 36,000 per year to the top ten students and a scholarship of Rs. 24,000 per year to the ones ranking between 11 to 50.

Counseling will be held from 10 June at KIIT premises for all the programmes, said a release issued by the varsity here today.

KIIT University is hosting Nanhi Pari 2008, the Little Miss India contest here, from May 2 to 5th. In this talent contest. 30 children out of 1,237 applicants from different states have been selected to participate in the semifinals.

Nanhipari, open for girls in their pre-teen-years (10 to 12 years), is being held in Odisha for the last eight years. The event has carved a niche for itself at the national level within a short span of time. Out of the 1,237 applicants from 15 States, 30 from 11 states are selected to semifinal round, which includes rounds on general knowledge, sports talent show, group discussion quiz and many other competitions.

The winner will be crowned as Nanhi Pari-2008 and also known as Little Miss India. She will receive a cash prize of Rs. 80,000, the crown, a citation and gifts. The winner of last year's contest was Priti Kumari from Jharkhand.

Nanhipari is organized under the patronage of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder Secretary of KIIT and KISS and President of the Nanhi Pari Parivar, Governor M.C. Bhandare has given his consent to be the chief guest of this grand occasion, while Bollywood actor Parikshit Sahani will be the guest of honour.

Rugby team of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences has attracted the attention of rugby organizations from all over the world, after its U 14 World Cup winning feat in 2007. The team has been receiving invitations to play in tournaments in different parts of the world, including UK and Australia.

Six students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences are leaving for UK as a part of the Indian Team on invitation to play in International Rugby Festival to be held in London from 1st May to 6th May, 2008. This Under 13 fixture will also feature teams from UK, Africa and Asia continents. The students selected from Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences to participate in this prestigious meet are - Lalit Mohan Bankira, Prakash Chandra Murmu, Ramesh Badra, Sagar Marndi, Sudam Charan Majhi and Basant Murmu. All the members are tribal coming from different backward regions of the State of Odisha. They will be leaving for Kolkata on 24th April and attend a practice session there before proceeding to London.

Another rugby team of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences has been invited to play in an Under 14 tournament in Australia. The team will tour different places in Australia in August this year.

Rugby was introduced in Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences only last year. The students were trained by Mr. Martin Hansport (international coach), Mr. Paul Walsh (national coach), Mr. Upendra Mohanty (State coach) and Mr. R. P. Jena (school coach). Soon after, the team registered impressive wins over teams of reputed schools from different parts of the country.

In September 2007, rugby team of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, representing India at the U 14 Rugby World Cup held in London, stunned the world by beating the fovourite South Africa in the final. Starting off as underdogs in the tournament, registered upset victories over Zambia, Swaziland, Kenya, Romania and South Africa on its way to win the U 14 World Cup.

"Representation of our students in Indian team to participate in this international tournament in UK is a matter of great pride for the tribal community, KISS as well as Odisha", said Dr. A. Samanta, Founder, KIIT Group of Institutions. He wished the team best of luck and expressed confidence that they will once again make the country proud by their performance.

The impressive performance of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences rugby team has attracted attention of media, policy makers, corporate sector and other sections of the society. Their world cup winning feat received wide coverage by national and local media. The team was specially felicitated by Mr. M. C. Bhandare, His Excellency the Governor of Odisha in Raj Bhawan and by Mr. Naveen Patnaik, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Odisha.

While the UK tour of KIIT Rugby team is sponsored by TourAid, a UK based organization, their Australia expedition is supported by the EXIM Bank.

Shri Rajeswar unveiled a golden plaque placed in his honour and inaugurated a demo house of Gadaba tribe at KISS. He appreciated the objectives and activities of KISS and termed it "a pride for KIIT Group of Institutions as well as the State of Odisha". Congratulating Dr. A. Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS for this noble initiative, he said this unique institution is an inspiration for successful organizations to take up their social responsibilities. Shri Rajeswar also donated Rs. 1 lac for KISS.

Earlier, Dr. Samanta welcomed Shri Rajeswar and Madam Governor, Smt Mahalakshmi Rajeswar to the campus and expressed his gratitude to them for their kind visit. Dr. Hari Gautam, Chancellor, KIIT University introduced the university to the Governor.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, Uttar Pradesh Raj Bhawan, Shri Gopobandhu Patnaik, IAS said that upliftment of weaker sections is our duty and Dr. Samanta has effectively fulfilled it through KISS. Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancellor proposed the vote of thanks.

Founder of the KIIT University Dr. Achyuta Samanta emerged as the most popular oriya in the etv-oriya conducted state -wide "Priya Oriya 2007" poll. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and popular singer Bhikari Bal were the winners of the title that was instituted by the television channel three years ago. The first phase of the poll was taken up in all the 30 districts of the State through secret ballot system conducted by mobile teams of the TV channel. Of the 10 successful personalities from different fields, Five were finally short-listed for the final poll.

Governor M.C. Bhandare conferred the trophy to Dr.Samanta in a special function hosted by the TV channel at the Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar.

Shri. Sibal was pleased to observe that KIIT School of Biotechnology is the only institute in the State to have the facilities for Genomics, Protonics and Bioengineering process.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. M. K. Bhan, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India advised the students of biotechnology to be innovators and good entrepreneurs through the application of emerging technologies in the field.

Dr. A. Samanta expressed gratitude to Shri Sibal for visiting KIIT and inaugurating the facility. The KSBT has been established with an objective to create new plant based medicines, biofertilisers, biopesticides and screening of anti cancer drugs, he informed. Earlier, Shri Sibal visited all the campuses of KIIT.

An exhibition, Gaon Se Gaon Tak, by students of KIIT School of Rural Management was inaugurated by Prof. Hari Gautam, Chancellor, KIIT University at the Kathjodi campus of the university here on Wednesday. The exhibition showcases rural life as experienced by the students of MBA in Rural Management course of KSRM in its village study segment. Students of this programme recently visited 30 villages of 13 states of rural India under the guidance of their faculties under village study segment, an important component of the course designed to give its participants a direct exposure to rural life and rural economy.

The exhibition has several colourful stalls, each showcasing specialty of a rural area visited by KSRM students. Vice Chancellor, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Team Leader & Registrar, Mr. L. C. Amarnathan, Prof. L.K.Vaswani, Director KIIT School of Rural Management were present at the inaugural ceremony.

The visiting artistes included, Sarat Pujhari, Dilip Shrichandan, Prafulla Kar, Himansu Khatua Praduman Sathpathy Anu Choudhary, Kajol Mishra, Sidrath Mohapatra, Archita,Puspa Panda, Debu Brahma Hara Prasad Das and others.

The artistes encouraged the tribal students and thanked Dr. A. Samanta for his commitment towards the revolution of technical education in Odisha and the social concern for the downtrodden class of the society.

Welcoming all the artistes to the campus, Dr. Samanta thanked them and also felicitated all the artistes.

Speaking at the annual cultural meet of KIIT University 'Kaizen 08' in his effervescent best, Sinha underlined that "in order to cleanse the system of all ills, good people must enter the political sphere rather than criticize the prevailing state of affairs from the ring side," The Shotgun, who took a plunge into politics inspired by Jayprakash Narayan, called upon the younger brigade to play a critical role in deciding the fate of the nation.
Sinha's charm worked magic among the students who literally clapped and cheered to every word he uttered. In his true inimitable style, Sinha utilised the occasion calling upon all to eschew smoking and stay away from chewing substance as they are significant contributors to oral cancer. Sinha is going from village to village in Bihar to spread awareness on the ill-effects of tobacco.

In his address, DG of Police Mr. G.C.Nanda stressed on creating employability potential among students as getting the right talent has become a major concern for the industry today.

Police Commissioner Binay Behere also spoke on the occasion. The function was attended by Founder & Former Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Vice-Chancellor Prof. S.C. De Sarkar, Registrar Mr.L.C Amarnathan and others.

He also inaugurated a primitive tribal house of Lanjia Saura tribe in the KISS campus. Speaking to the students of KISS, he said that it was his wish to visit this institution for the past few months and he was happy to visit them and interact with them on this occasion. We have to learn a great deal from the tribals, he said. Recalling the U14 Rugby World Cup winning feat of the students of this school, he expressed confidence that the students of this school will make the state and the country proud on many more occasions. He congratulated Founder Secretary of KISS, Dr. A. Samanta for taking this novel initiative for the tribal children.

Earlier Dr. Samanta extended a warm welcome to His Excellency the Governor and expressed gratitude to him for sparing valuable time for the students of KISS.

Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Secretary, Govt. of Odisha, Mr. Parag Guta, IAS said that KISS has aroused curiosity of intellectuals in the country and abroad. Each successful person in the society should sponsor a student of this school, he suggested, adding that this will enable the students to scale new heights. Noted social worker, Padmashree, Tulasi Munda and President, KIIT Society, Mrs Saswati Bal also attended the cultural programme and encouraged the students.

CEO of KISS, Dr. P K Routray and other senior officials of KIIT and KISS were present on the occasion.

World Kidney Day is going to be observed on 13th March 2008 by Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), a sister concern of KIIT University in association with Odisha Nephrology Forum, Indian Academy of Nephrology, Indian Medical Association; API, Bhubaneswar, Multi Organ Transplantation & Human Educational Research (MOTHER) and Health + Plus Division (Information International) BBSR. On this occasion a Public Rally will be taken from Biju Pattnaik Park to Raj Bhawan starting at 8:00am followed by a public meeting at Hotel Crown at 6:30pm. It is the 3rd time KIMS is observing the World Kidney Day, while it is observed every year worldwide since last 5 years. Due to a high increase in kidney related diseases like kidney failure, diabetes and hypertension throughout the world, it was realized to create awareness among people for primary prevention and control of the above diseases and adequately treat those conditions including albuminuria to avoid serious complications like kidney failure, heart attack and brain stroke. To Mark this occasion a free Diabetic Detective Test will be organized from 9 am to 12 pm at Niya premises unit -7 AG square BBSR.

The organizing committee has appealed to all citizens of Bhubaneswar, GP doctors, physicians, cardiologists, neurologists, surgeons to join their hands to observe the Day in a big way and to carry the Basic message of the day to the public informed Dr. Suresh C. Dash, Principal KIMS.

Globalization and technological advancement have created new opportunities for today's women making them economically empowered observed Mrs. Jagi Mangat Panda, Director & Co-founder Ortel Communications Ltd. at the International Women's Day function organized at KIIT here on Saturday. Many progressive global corporations clearly understand the importance of supporting women's advancement. They provide strong corporate leadership and social responsibility in actively developing and advancing female talent she added. Government, corporate houses and other sectors should think at large to stand by their commitments and to allocate resources to translate them into action for the underprivileged women in the society, she prescribed.

While Mrs. Bobby Pattnaik, HR Manager Infosys outlined the definition of empowerment, she said that every women should have the realization power. International Women's Day, 8th March, is a global day of celebration - recognizing the achievement and contribution of women to society - and has been celebrated worldwide since 1910 said Dr. Sucheta Priyabadni, Deputy registrar KIIT University.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary KIIT asserted that KIIT is a model employer for women.
Mrs. Saswati Bal, President of KIIT Society, Prof. Hari Gatuam, Chancellor KIIT University, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar Vice Chancellor KIIT University and Mr. L. C. Amarnathan, Registrar also spoke on the occasion.

KiiT International School offers the best of national and international curriculum. While CBSE is offered as the national curriculum, international curriculum includes Cambridge International Primary Programme (CIPP) at primary level and IGCSE of Cambridge at middle and high school level. Each of two curriculums is headed by highly qualified and experienced Principals, who guide a competent team of teachers, drawn from different countries, to deliver quality education. The CBSE curriculum has students from all parts of the country, while the IGCSE curriculum can have more than 300 international students. The school, which presently offers education from Kindergarten to Class IX level, has already been affiliated by CBSE. The IGCSE affiliation is forthcoming soon. While more than 150 foreign students will be enrolled upto Class IX in international curriculum, students from all parts of the country will also be joining in the coming academic year. The fees is reasonable, and is only a quarter of that charged by international boarding schools in India offering similar facilities.

The school uniquely promotes the integration of academic and co-curricular programmes, as well as the development of the informal curriculum where students are encouraged to build their personalities through learning and socio-cultural interaction. It focuses on innovative practical learning approaches, which make assimilation of lessons easy and reduce the burden of school bags. The school has established a huge science park with facilities for more than 115 scientific experiments as a part of this innovative pedagogy. Further, every year students go on a national and an international study tour.

An enabling infrastructure is a prerequisite for the quality education. Therefore, the very basic concept education in KiiT International School is driven towards giving the students an atmosphere in which they can learn, think and create. The physical infrastructure comprises of an independent, self-contained and wi-fi campus which holds in its lap spacious air conditioned classrooms with audio visual aids, activity based toys and models, science park, golf course and swimming pool with temperature control. The luxurious campus, at par with a 5-Star hotel, also provides adequate facilities for all indoor as well as outdoor games for the overall development of the students. These include a multigym, cricket, football, horse riding, table tennis, basket ball, etc. The students' residence, which is also air conditioned, serves hygienic Indian and international cuisines. It is the first of its kind in the country to serve only organic vegetables and has hired the hospitality professionals to provide the best service.

While KIIT International School is a fully residential boarding school, day boarding option is also available to the children coming from nearby areas. The students of the school also have a unique opportunity to pursue prestigious courses of higher education offered by KIIT.

The school offers 10 percent concession in fees to girl students. Further, there is provision for full waiver of fees for five poor and meritorious girl students.

KiiT International School will be an asset for the state of Odisha, says Dr. A. Samanta, dreamer, implementer and custodian of KIIT Group of Institutions. It provides an opportunity to the students of Odisha to pursue international-level school education, for which earlier they had to go outside the state, at their doorstep, he elaborates, adding that presence of a large number of foreign children besides hundreds of students from different parts of the country at this school will also give a boost to the tourism in the State and economy of the local area.

Prof. Sukhadeo Thorat, Chairman, University Grants Commission visited KIIT on 24th February, 2008. Prof. Thorat, who was on a two-day official tour to Odisha, visited different campuses and the facilities of KIIT and interacted with the staff and students.

His programme in KIIT also included a visit to Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT providing free education, vocational training and residence to 5000 tribal students. He appreciated the facilities being provided to the deprived children of tribal communities in this institute. Lauding the contributions of Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary of KISS & KIIT, in the field of education and social development, the UGC Chairman expressed his gratitude to the Ministry and the Hon'ble Minister of Human Resources Development, Government of India for nominating Dr. Samanta as a member of the UGC. His contributions and vision makes him the most suitable for the responsibility, he said.

The three-day Annual Techno Management fest of KIIT University, Kritansh 08, concluded with amazing lectures delivered by Mr. Manish Tripathy, Director of Mumbai Dabbawalas on 18th February 2008. The technofest provided a platform to more than 3000 students from different colleges and universities of the country to showcase their creativity.

The fest featured events such as Robotics, (Robospere) paper presentation (Anvenshan), (Bulls n Bears) stock market, (Kuruk shetra) LAN Gaming Codaic finals, Quest of the strings & more.
Prizes worth Rs.10,0000 were distributed to the winners.

Speaking at the valedictory ceremony, Dr. A. Samanta Founder Secretary, KIIT University appreciated the efforts put in by the organizing committee of Kritansh and the students to make the fest a grand success.

Hon'ble Chief Guest Dr. Jitendra Nath Mishra, India's Consul General to Vietnam applauded such initiatives taken by KIIT. Also present on the occasion were Prof. Hari Gautam Chancellor, and Prof. S. C. De Sarkar Vice Chancellor KIIT University.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Said Irandoust said that globalization and liberalization demand high quality of education in the world, and quality should be the focus in today's technical institutions. The country's development depends upon the quality of education which is provided in its educational institutions, he asserted while addressing the gathering. There will be some collaborative programmes between AIT Bangkok and KIIT, which will give an international platform to the students of these two respected institutions, he announced.

Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary, KIIT outlined the achievements of the students of the university in academics, technical, sports and cultural activities. Fests like Kritansh would go a long way in create a broad platform for knowledge sharing among future engineers and managers. Prof. Hari Gatuam, Chancellor, also spoke on the occasion.

The main attraction of the first day for the participants was a guest lecture by Mr. Dilip Chhabria, internationally celebrated automobile designer. Robotics, business events, paper presentation and exhibitions also feature as the first day events.

About 1500 students from leading technical institutions from across the country such as NITs, IITs, XIMB, Sriram College of Delhi, BITs Pilani, Hyderbad Management School and others are participating in the three-day mega techno management fest.

Dr. Samanta's induction in the Council is expected to give a boost to the cause of higher education in the state. His selection from amongst the distinguished educationist and outstanding personalities of the country has made Odisha proud, for he has become the first ever Oriya to be the Member in the highest policy making body of the UGC.

Reacting to the development, Dr. Samanta expressed gratitude to Mr. Arjun Singh, Hon'ble Union Minister, HRD, Government of India for appointing him as a member of the UGC and promised to discharge responsibilities associated with the office diligently.

The KISS India Rugby Team for the first time will get support from the Export Import (EXIM) Bank of India. This was announced by Mr. T. C. Subramanian, CMD, Exim Bank in a press conference organized on the premises of KISS here on the 28th of January 2008. The team had created a sensation by winning U 14 Rugby World Cup in London last year.

Exim Bank will extend all support to KISS Rugby team to play in Commonwealth Games which is to be held in 2010, he said in the press conference.

While briefing the media, he detailed that the bank will provide facilities which will include training for physical stamina, national and international coach and expose them by organizing matches in different cities in India like Bangalore, Calcutta, Mumbai, etc. The bank will also provide infrastructure facilities by creating good playground exclusive for Rugby in KISS campus, he said.

Addressing the media, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary, KISS said that government has provided much encouragement to the players, who bring laurels and pride for the state. If private industries and public sectors extend a helping hand to the underprivileged players, they can perform even better at national and international level.

Mr. T. C. Subramanian CMD, Exim Bank thanked Dr. Samanta for providing encouragement and facilities to the team which enabled it to excel at international level.

Dr. Samanta also expressed his gratitude to Exim Bank for its support to KISS India Rugby Team. Among others, Mr. David Sinate, General Manager, Exim Bank, Mr. S. Srinivas, Dy. General Manager, Exim Bank and KISS Principal Aditya Mohanty and others were present in the press conference.

Addressing a large gathering of students and staff of KIIT, he said India's progress in economy, social justice, governance and science and technology during last six decades is remarkable, while referring to innovative development processes such as Green Revolution and White Revolution. India has earned a significant status in the field of science and technology, space science, nuclear energy, medicine and its allied fields biotechnology, nano technology and Information Technology, he said.

Hon'ble Deputy Speaker hailed Dr. Samanta's role in setting up the KIIT and its sister institutions, especially the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, as exemplary. His concern for the neglected tribal children reflects the humanistic aspect of this very successful institution, he said.

Prof. Hauke Hennecke, Renowned Educationist from ETH, Zurich, the Guest of Honour on the occasion, drew comparison between India 200 years ago and the present. Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary, KIIT Society and Chancellor, KIIT University said that KIIT is an expression of free, progressive and assertive India. It is a tradition of hosting national and international luminaries on this important occasion at KIIT, he said, adding that last year, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry (1991) from Switzerland, Prof. Richard R. Ernst had graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Students representing 13 schools and all the wings of KIIT educational conglomerate presented a march past and an assortment of colourful cultural presentations. Outstanding achievers from among students were also honoured. Among others, Shri Ballbira Singh, and Dr. Prasanna Patasani, Hon'ble MP, Lok Sabha and officials and students of KIIT were present.

Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Chancellor of KIIT University has been appointed as a member of the General Body of the "Council For Advancement of People's Action and Rural Technology (CAPART) under the aegis of ministry of Rural Development, Govt. of India.

CAPART, being the premier organization to support and monitor several projects undertaken by various Non-Government Organizations, spread over the country, selects individuals and organizations with exceptional organizational skill and social entrepreneurship to its General Body. After due consideration and scrutiny the remarkable achievement of Dr. Samanta, both as the Secretary of KIIT and KISS and a noted social entrepreneur, the Ministry of Rural Development, Govt. of India appointed him to the highest body of CAPART.

The appointment to the General Body has been communicated to him through the D.G CAPART Vide his letter no.1-10/2007-AED dated 26th December 2007. Dr. Samanta's appointment to the Regional Committee, Bhubaneswar has been communicated vide the letter no.17-2/2007-AED dated, 31st December 2007 of the Regional Committee. The regional committee looks after the proposals and projects submitted from West Bengal, Chhatishgarh, Odisha and Andaman & Nicober Islands.

Dr. Samanta has expressed his satisfaction over his appointment and expressed his gratitude to the Minister of Rural Development, Govt. of India, Shri Chandrasekhar Sahu and DG, CAPART for bestowing this honor on him.

In a communication, the executive director of the social Edge-Skoll Foundation, USA has informed that because of the ranking among the top 15, Dr. Samanta has been selected for a fellowship of 20,000 US dollars for a week programme from August 19th to 31st in Santa Clara University. During his stay in USA, he will deliver lecturers on various aspects of social entrepreneurship.

Dr. Thomas Janowaski, United Nations University IIST, Macau gave a brief report of the workshop and said that such type of workshop provides platform for interaction among researchers and academicians from all over world working in the field of e-Governance. Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University said that KIIT is keen to promote e-Governance and has adequate track record and infrastructure to provide training on IT required for it. Dr. M. Moni, Dy Director General, NIC, Govt.of India expressed happiness with the fact that KIIT is providing education in the a holistic manner. The curriculum for the Computer Science should be updated regularly, he stressed.

Shri P. K .Mohapatra, IAS, Commssioner cum Secretary, IT, Govt .of Odisha said that administration of e-Governance in Odisha is poor and it should be given a high priorty. He also said that every state has implemented National e-Goverance Plan, while Odisha is the only state yet to do so. Dr. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancellor, KIIT University delivered the presidential address, while Shri. L. C. Amarnathan, Team Leader proposed the vote of thanks. A large number of academicians and expert in the field of e Governance from all over the world are attending the workshop.

Security Marketing institution will be open in the national level to sort out the problems in security market trading system, said Mr. M. Damodaran ,Chairman Security Exchange Board of India during his talk on 'Managing India's Development -The Challenge of Change at KIIT School of Management and Rural Management' here on Saturday. Education is the manifestation of Human perfection. So the 21st century's young generation should be perfect in education and sort out the problems for the country's progress he elaborated while adding that India is progressing now in different arenas.

India is the country of unity in diversity and it has many problems like disparity, the delay legal system, food insecurity which creates hindrance for the country's growth. The young generation proves these challenges in a constructive change for the betterment of the society he said while addressing the students. A country or an organization needs empowerment accountability and management in order to make the society perfect he added.

He expressed his pleasure on excellent educational infrastructure created by KIIT in this part of the country. Welcoming Mr. Damdoran to the campus, Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta said that this is an unique opportunity for KIITians to get a chance to hear Mr. Damodaran. KIIT has earned its place among prestigious institutions in the country such as JNU and IITs, he said, while introducing KIIT to the SEBI Chairman.

Among others Prof. S .Madu Mishra, Pro-Vice Chancellor KIIT University, Prof. S.C De Sarkar Vice Chancellor KIIT University and other officials of different wings of KIIT were present on the occasion.

Swagat Das, a 2nd year student of BTech (Electronic & Telecommunication) of KIIT University, has been selected to compete in the First SAARC Youth Camp to be held in Dhaka from 9th to 13th December, 2007. Swagat is the only participant from Odisha among 10 other students selected from different states of the country. Out of about 1200 NSS affiliated Colleges in the country, only 10 students are selected to represent India. There will be an orientation camp to be held in Delhi before the team's final departure to Dhaka, according to a source in the Ministry of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of India. All the expenses, including travel, boarding and lodging, have been arranged by the Ministry.
SAARC Youth Camp is a programme which seeks to promote cultural exchange among the SAARC countries. The participants will exchange their ideas regarding various cultural and social activities. Expressing happiness at yet another achievement of a student of KIIT, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor KIIT University said it is a matter of pride for the state that it is representing the Indian team attending the Youth Camp.

"If girls and young women are educated, the rest will follow", said Prof Zinkernagel in his convocation address 'Does science and technology education matter to the public'. Prof. Dr. Rolf M. Zinkernagel's discovery on the specificity of cell mediated immune defense led to a foundation for the understanding of the general mechanisms of the cellular immune systems. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1996 for this work.

This is the second time in a year that a Noble laureate has delivered convocation address at KIIT University. The convocation address at the second annual convocation of KIIT University was delivered by Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, the then Vice President of India.

Speaking to the graduating students of the University, Prof. Hans Hengartner from the faculty of Medicine University of Zurich and ETH and a close associate of Prof. Zinkernagel, said that while long term research adds to the knowledge, short term translation of such knowledge into practical technology is equally important. An immunologist par excellence, Prof Hengartner is well known for his research on cellular and molecular immunology.

Prof. J. Martin Hunter, Professor of International Dispute Resolution, Nottingham Law School, UK in his address pointed out that India as the World's most populous free society has been at the forefront of the development of the Rule of Law. Establishment of a law faculty at KIIT University provides an appropriate opportunity to emphasize the importance of law in the context of the wider 21st Century educational aspirations, he said.

In his presidential address, Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta congratulated the graduating students and reminded them that responsibility towards the society and mankind as a whole should guide them. KIIT's character as a centre of excellence is once again attested by the presence of international luminaries, he said, while expressing his gratitude to Prof. Zinkernagel, Prof Hengartner and Prof Hunter for sharing their wisdom.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar presented the Vice Chancellor's report. Total 1206 students received degrees at the third convocation, including 503 from BTech, 142 from MCA, 456 from MBA, 34 from MBA (Executive) and 71 from MTech. Soumyashree Das (B.Tech, IT), Devam Chakraborty (MCA), Anirban Bhattacharjee, (M.Tech, E&TC), Priya Garg (MBA), Nirmal Ch. Mohanty (MBA-Executive), Nibedita Sahu, (MBA Executive 2004-2006), Sonali Senapati (MBA Executive 2003-2005) received Chancellor's Gold Medal for securing highest academic scores in respective disciplines. Similarly Sanchari Dutta and Priya Garg received B. P.K. Bal Memorial Gold Medal for Best All-rounder in MBA and PPL Gold Medal for best student in MBA with Marketing Specialization respectively.

Registrar, Dr. R. N. Ray presented the vote of thanks. Directors and Deans of different schools of KIIT University, faculty members, staff members and academicians from other universities were present at the convocation ceremony.

Technology has a key role to play in the success of our industrial society, said Mr. H. M. Nerurkar, COO (Steel), Tata Steel in his talk on Technology and Development - The Link at KIIT here on Tuesday. Industrial revolution, green revolution, high standard of living and economic growth are possible only through technology, he said, while adding that technological idea has changed the human life. Technology and development are closely interrelated and important for societal transformation, he elaborated.

Welcoming Mr. Nerukar to the campus, Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta said that the university has rich ties with Tata Group. A TCS Learning Center functions from KIIT premises, he pointed out, while recalling that TCS has created sort of record by recruiting 300 students this year from KIIT.

Mr. Nerukar interacted with the students and faculty of KIIT School of Management and visited various campuses of KIIT University. He expressed his pleasure on excellent educational infrastructure created by KIIT in this part of the country. He also visited Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT and the largest tribal school of the country.
Mr. Nerukar congratulated Dr. Samanta on inclusion of KIIT under as many as four categories in Limca Book of Record recently.

Among others, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Registrar, Dr. R. N. Ray, Director, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. S. Madhu Mishra and directors of different wings of KIIT were present.

Four Limca Records for KIIT and Dr. A. Samanta

Unbelievable yet true that Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has entered in the prestigious Limca Book of Records-2007, in four different categories. In a unique show of excellence, KIIT gets registered in the Limca Book as the only institution in the country to offer technical education from ITI to Ph.D level. After a thorough scrutiny of all the technical institutions spread over the country, Limca Book of records found only KIIT to be offering technical education from ITI to Ph.D level under one umbrella.

Incredible indeed to find KIIT as the only institution to be declared as a University established u/s3 of the UGC Act 1956 within the shortest possible time. Within six years of the commencement of the final examination of its 1st batch of B.Tech student, KIIT was declared a University by the Ministry of HRD's Notification. Going through the list of Universities under the UGC, Limca team found KIIT to be the only institution to become a University within a short span of time.

KIIT-University' Chancellor too finds a place in the Record book.

Dr.Achyuta Samanta, Chancellor of KIIT University has earned a place in the Limca Book of Records as the youngest Chancellor of any University in India. After a comprehensive scrutiny and the rigorous process of examination from the list of Chancellors of the 369 Universities in India as on August 31st, 2007 including 18 Central Universities, 89 Deemed Universities and 262 state Universities and /or Universities through State legislations and the Institutions of National Importance, the Limca Book team found that Dr. Achyuta Samanta deserves to be placed in the record book as the youngest Chancellor. After KIIT became a university u/s 3 of the UGC Act 1956, Dr. Samanta became its Chancellor while still at the age of 40 years. Late Rajiv Gandhi was the Chancellor of Visva-Bharati University at the age of 40 years 3 months and 11 days.

The high level delegation from Limca Book of Records led by its Senior Editor, Ms. Arthy Muthana Singh came on an inspection to KIIT on February 2007 last. After a close scrutiny of records and interaction with the students and other stake holders of KIIT for four days, she returned back to cross check the claims by getting feedbacks from their sources elsewhere.

During the visit to the Kalinga Institute of Social Science (KISS), the Senior Editor of Limca Book of Record was immensely impressed by 5000 tribal children studying there. Coming to know that these children are provided with food, accommodation, education, heath care and other basic amenities free, she tried to find out the existence of any such institution elsewhere in the country. Her investigation zeroed round KISS and it found its place in the Limca Book as the only Residential school from KG to Class XII in the country exclusively for the tribal children.

It is heartening to note that except KIIT, no institution of any individual has entered the Limca Book on more than one count till date. This itself is a record for the record book. It is a matter of great satisfaction that KIIT has made the state proud thorough its unique feats, since no institution from Odisha has entered the Limca Book in 2007. KIIT which has staked its claim for the Guinness Book of Records and is upbeat now because of the proposed visit by the Guinness team to examine its claims.

We do not crave for records but achieving such feats definitely makes us happy, said Dr. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University & Founder Secretary of KIIT and KISS, in his reaction over these achievements. By God's grace and goodwill of our well wishers, KIIT is bound to touch new heights, said a beaming Dr. Samanta.

A student of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences has been selected in the Odisha State Khoko squad to participate at the national level Khoko tournament to be held in Hyderabad in November 2007. Rajesh Kumar Barla, the selected student, studies in the Class 9 and and was noticed because of his excellent performance at a State level tournament in Sambalpur recently.

He is among the 12-member State team which will participate at the national level meet. An outstanding sportsperson, Rajesh has represented KISS in various school level competitions during past three years.

The students of KISS, the largest tribal institute in the country and a sister concern of KIIT, have had a string of successes in the field of academics and sports at national and international level recently. Most notably, the brought glory to the country by winning U14 Rugby World Cup held in London in September last.

Expressing happiness over his selection in the State team, Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary KISS & KIIT, said that all round achievement by the students of KISS is a matter of pride for Odisha. Rajesh will definitely bring laurels for the State by his hard work, he said.

Raju Timaka, a 13-year old tribal boy from Rayagada district, got a new lease of life; thanks to Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, a wing of KIIT. Raju, a student of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, was suffering from hemolytic uremia with acute kidney failure.

Raju was admitted in a serious condition and he had to be put on dialysis four times, said Dr. S. C. Dash, Principal of KIMS. He belongs to a poor family and Das Timaka, his father, had lost all hopes of his son's survival. Unable to afford his education and healthcare, he had left Raju at KIMS alone. Raju was suffering from many ailments due to prolonged absence of medical attention, said Dr. Sagawat Tripathy, a doctor of KIMS who treated him.

Dr. A. Samanta, founder secretary of KIIT and KISS, expressed satisfaction over the improvement of Raju's Health and thanked the Doctors who cured him.

Participants included those from across the entire state as well as students from IIT-Kharagpur. The Crowd of over 500 poured in to battle for a prize money worth. Rs 25,000/- which in itself was an achievement as it was the first time in the state that such intense participation was observed for a quizzing event, the credit for which goes to the renowned quizzing culture of KIIT.

The participants included students from almost all engineering and medical colleges as well as school students and employees of corporate like TCS, INFOSYS, NALCO, etc, as the teams fought out to the wonderfully carved out quiz of Mr. Gaurav Banerjee' an ex-KIITian currently working in INFOSYS- BHUBANESWAR.

The team from S.C.B. Medical College, Cuttack emerged as the winners while the team comprising of 'TCS-KOLKATA' & 'OXFORD-UNIVERSITY PRESS' were the first runners-up and the team from 'SILICON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY' were the 2nd runners-up.

2 home teams, one from school of Technology and one from School of management had also made it to the finals.

Finally the 'Warrior' of the quiz was awarded to the budding school team from RUCHIKA ENGLISH MEDIUM SCHOOL, Bhubaneswar, who literally dictated terms that day amidst experienced quizzers and stole the show.

"Eyes are the most beautiful organs of the human body and every-body should take proper care of them. If my eyes can help someone to see the beautiful world, then it would give me great pleasure to donate them," Hema said. It is unfortunate that so many children in the country have lost their eyesight and "we must do something to check this," she added.

The actor asked children not to watch TV for long hours and "especially after midnight." She said, "There should be only one TV in the house and that too in the drawing room. It should be switched on only for a few hours each day. But late night viewing should be a strict no."

How does she personally take care of her eyes? She said," Since I have to face bright lights and wear heavy make-up during my dance pro-grammes and shooting. I prefer reiki to reduce stress on my eyes." The star also released a film called " V21" and TV promotional spots on six eye diseases to create awareness among the masses.

Speaking at the function held in KIIT Krishna Campus, Union minister of state for health, Ms Panabaka Lakshmi said the Centre has decided to increase funds earmarked for eye care by three folds during the 11th Five Year Plan. The government has launched a national programme for prevention of visual impairment and control of blindness to provide community-level eye care facilities in each district." The Centre is planning to eliminate visual impairment through primitive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative efforts," the minister added.

Finally all the guests were felicitated by Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr.A.Samanta. Vision 2020 is an initiative to eliminate avoidable blindness by 2020 and is jointly launched by WHO and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, In collaboration with governments, NGOs and other institutions across the world.

The KISS India Rugby Team, winners of U 14 Rugby World Cup in London, were given a rousing welcome upon their arrival here on Wednesday. Twelve members of the team, comprising of the tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, KIIT's sister concern, accompanied by their coach Shri. R. K. Nayak were received by senior officials of KIIT and KISS and hundreds of sports enthusiasts at Biju Patnaik airport today morning. On Saturday last, the KISS India Team defeated the favorites South Africa 19-05 in the final played in London to clinch the U 14 Rugby World Cup.

The young stars were escorted to the Chief Minister's residence where they were given a warm welcome. Congratulating the KISS India Team for their resounding success, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri. Naveen Patnaik wished them all the best in their future fixtures. A felicitation ceremony was also organised at the Governor House. Speaking at the felicitation ceremony, His Excellency the Governor of Odisha, Shri. M. C. Bhandare termed the success as unprecedented and said that world cup winning feat of the young boys bring out the real talent of tribal. The team, which is popularly called as Jungle Crows, proved that they are in fact tigers, he said, adding that not only KIIT, but also the State and the country are proud of them.

Our boys have brought laurel and glory to the country, said Founder Secretary of KIIT and KISS, Dr. A. Samanta, adding that with a little support tribal can achieve miracle. He attributed the success to hard work, team effort and blessings of God. Dr. Samanta, who is the inspiration behind this success, thanked the coach, trainers and others well wishers who supported the KISS India Team.

The team arrived their home in KIIT campus in an open and decorated van at around afternoon where they were greeted by thousands of singing, dancing and slogan chanting fans belonging to KISS and KIIT family and general public. Senior officials of KIIT and KISS felicitated the winners at s special ceremony organised at Kathjodi campus.

The KISS U 14 Rugby Team have been invited to play a series of friendly matches in South Africa later this year. They will also participate in the Asian Game and International Rugby Tournament.

Heroes of Junior World Cup Rugby winning Indian squad from KISS were given a warm welcome at Kolkata. After their arrival from London on 1st October, 2007, the team was escorted with high security from the airport. The KISS India Under 14 Rugby Team, popularly known as the Jungle Crows, snatched an unprecedented victory over favorites South Africa in the final play-off in London on 29th September, 2007.

A special programme for the team was organized at Kolkata, where the young stars were felicitated by senior officials of the West Bengal Government, officials of KISS and KIIT and sportspersons. They shared their experiences of the tour with the media at a press conference. "Our boys triumphed because of their passion to win for India, and they have made KIIT, Odisha and the whole country proud", said Dr. A. Samanta, founder secretary, KISS & KIIT and Chancellor, KIIT University, at the press meet.

The team will arrive by Kingfisher Airlines in Bhubaneswar on 3rd October 2007 at 8 am. A grand victory rally will start from the airport to KIIT Campus. They will be felicitated by Hon'ble Chief Minister and His Excellency the Governor of Odisha.

Only a few days after Dhoni's boys salvaged India's lost pride in cricket by winning T20 World Cup in Johanesberg, KISS INDIA RUGBY TEAM has given the people of this country another reason to rejoice. On Saturday, 'Jungle Crows', as they are popularly called, outplayed South Africa 19-05 in LONDON to annex the Under 14 RUGBY WORLD CUP.

As the news of their friends' world conquering performance came on Saturday evening, 5000 tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, broke into frenetic celebration. The Jungle Crows had started off as underdogs in the tournament, playing a foreign sport on a foreign turf. But what they possessed in plenty was a passion to win for India. And they stunned Zambia, Swaziland, Kenya and Romania to top the Group B set up a tough title clash with South Africa. South Africa, which had topped the Group A beating Cambodia, Ruwanda, Maldowa and Kazaksthan, proved no match to the KISS India Team.

Elated at the unexpected and outstanding performance of KISS India Team, Founder Secretary of KIIT & KISS, Dr. A. Samanta said that the win is the result of prayers of the students of KISS and well-wishers of the young Indian team. It is a matter for great pride for KISS, the tribal community, State and the country, he said. He conveyed his gratitude to the well-wishers, Central and State Government and all those helped the team in its mission.

Achievement of the young boys from KISS were remarkable in more ways than one. All the 12 members of Indian (KISS) squad are Tribasl coming from different backward regions of the State of Odisha. Their selection to participate in this International Tournament in London was being considered a marvel, leave aside winning. The squad was totally unfamiliar with this sport, traditionally a western stronghold, before being initiated into it just four months back. However, they proved the punters wrong, and defeated teams from different reputed schools of the country to set up dates with ten international teams vying for World Cup in London.

Members of the squad are Bikash Chandra Murmu (Captain), Chittaranjan Murmu, Babula Malka, Rajkishore Murmu, Bukei Hansda, Niranjan Biswal, Hadidhangda Majhi, Sahadev Majhi, Gorang Jamuda, Narasingh Kerei, Barial Behera and Ganesh Hembram. They belong to Kolho, Bonda, Bathudi, Santhal and Kandha tribes. The team is being coached by Mr. R. K. Jena and Mr. U. K. Mohanty, Chairman of Odisha Rugby Association.

Joys of the 5000 tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, knew no bounds as they heard about the victory of their team in the World Cup, organized at the grounds of Acer Rugby Club of England. Congratulating the team for their outstanding performance, Founder Secretary of KISS and KIIT, and Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta said that it is a matter of great pride for KISS, the tribal community, State and the country. He wished the team all the best for their final clash with South Africa on Saturday.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Dr. Tripathy explained the origin and progress of biotechnology and current research in the field. Biotechnology can play an important role in protection of biodiversity at a time when environmental pollution is assuming hazardous proportions, he said. It is important in all fields ranging from agriculture to medicine, he said, adding that current research focuses on enhancing the agricultural production and development of new medicines. He underscored the need to popularize biotechnology and speed up research in these areas.

Presenting an overview of the workshop, Director of KIIT School of Biotechnology, Dr. Mrutyunjay Suar expressed confidence that it will be immensely beneficial to participants and students. Additional Director, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Dr. Manoranjan Hota said that biosafety is an emerging field in biotechnology.

Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta welcomed the large number of researchers, academicians and students participating in the workshop and invited them to take its full benefit. KIIT gives an equal importance to the protection of environment, he said, adding that this type of workshop is very relevant to its priorities.

Among others, Mr. Manan Bhatt, Senior Vice President of Bangalore-based organization, Avesthajen, Vice Chancellor of KIIT University, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Registrar, Dr. R. N. Ray and Team Leader, Mr. L. C. Amarnathan were present at the inaugural function.

The fifteen day Orientation programme for young professionals of the Council for Advancement of Peoples's Action and Rural Technology (CAPART) Govt. of India in collaboration with KIIT School of Management concluded on 25th September 2007. The Orientation programme provided a platform to participants from 13 states to create awareness among them about various Rural Development Schemes and Programmes implemented by the Government and Non-government Agencies in India and equipped them with the knowledge and skills for organizing economic and social development activities and management of rural development programmes.

Speaking to the Valedictory ceremony Mrs. Lakshmi Prasad, IRS Dy Director General CAPART, Ministry of Rural Development Govt. of India outlined that the objectives of the workshop is to expedite the young professionals through class room teaching , training program for the rural development.

Shri S.N. Tripathy, IAS, Commissioner cum Secretary Department of Rural Development & Information Technology said that rural development is not a programme. It is a mission for the rural India. He suggested young professionals to serve rural India through this mission.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. A. Samanta Chancellor, KIIT University informed that KIIT is providing education as well as social services. This orientation programme is beneficial for both KIIT and CAPART, he informed.
The Orientation programme also featured delivery of speech by eminent resource persons from the field of Rural Development and experienced faculty members of KIIT-SOM and KSRM.

Among others, Saroj kumar Das, member of CAPART, Dr. Parmeswar Nayak, Dean School of Management, Prof.L.K.Vaswani, Director KSRM, Dr. R.N. Ray, Registrar KIIT University and other officials of KIIT University were present on the occasion.

The induction programme for the first batch of MBBS of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), a unit of KIIT University, commenced here on Wednesday. The programme was inaugurated by Shri Prafulla Chandra Ghadai, Hon'ble Finance Minister, Odisha in the presence of Shri Debi Prasad Mishra, Hon'ble Excise and Tourism Minister, Odisha, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University and Prof. B. C. Das, Director, DMET, Govt. of Odisha.

Inaugurating the function, Shri Ghadai said that the State is developing at a fast pace and KIIT symbolizes a resurgent Odisha. Even as the requirement of medical professional is growing, there is a dearth of medical colleges in the State, he said. He commended the efforts of Dr. Samanta in bridging this gap. Terming KIMS as a jewel of Odisha, Shri Debi Prasad Mishra said that this medical college will benefit poor and middle class people of the state.

KIMS would provide best medical facility to all at nominal cost, said Dr. A. Samanta. KIIT would continue its endeavor of providing quality education with strong social commitment along with providing better health services through its wing, KIMS, he added. A special scholarship of Rs.3000 per month will be given to the first student taking admission in KIMS, he announced. He expressed his gratitude to the Govt. of Odisha for its role in opening of medical college in the State.

Among others, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancellor, KIIT University, Prof. S. C. Dash, Principal, KIMS, Shri Panchanan Parida, Management Representative, Shri Gopal Chamupaty, Vice President, KIIT Society and other officials of KIIT and KIMS were present on the occasion.

In an uncommon achievement, Rugby team of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, has been selected to participate in an International Rugby Tournament to be held in London from 24th September, 2007. The squad, comprising of 12 tribal students under the age of 14, left for London via Kolkata here on Wednesday.

The team had faced initial hiccups in obtaining passport earlier this month, as none of the member of the squad possessed a valid birth certificate, a normal condition among tribals in the country. However, the problem was overcome after Ministry of Foreign Affairs intervened after special efforts by Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary of KIIT & KISS. Subsequently, the members of the squad were granted Visa by Foreign Ministry of UK.

All expenses of KISS Rugby Squad for this tournament are being borne by International Rugby Association. However, the team's journey to international fame had not been easy. It faced stiff challenge from several schools from across the country before winning the National Rugby Tournament held in Kolkata last month. The team was felicitated by British High Commissioner in Kolkata, Mr. Simon Wilson for its outstanding performance.

Prior to their departure, 9000 students and staff of KIIT Group of Institutions, including 5000 tribal students of KISS, bid the team best wishes in various functions organized on the occasion. The achievement of the students of KISS has made the tribal community of the State proud, who will join people of the State in general in cheering for the team at all stages of the tournament.

Congratulating the team for their thumping success, Dr. A. Samanta expressed confidence that the tribal students will make KIIT, state and the country proud by their performance on foreign turf. The visiting team is flooded with appreciations from various quarters of the country and UK. After reaching UK, the squad will attend a reception in Indian Embassy in London on 28th September, 2007. Mr. R. Ambalavanan, Senior Official of Indian Embassy has assured to take full responsibility of the visiting team.

Teams from 10 countries, including South Africa, Zambia, Kazaksthan, Cambodia, Kenya, Maldova, Romania, Ruwanda, Switzerland and India are participating in this tournament.

Members of the squad are Bikash Chandra Murmu (Captain), Chittaranjan Murmu, Babula Malka, Rajkishore Murmu, Bukei Hansda, Niranjan Biswal, Hadidhangda Majhi, Sahadev Majhi, Gorang Jamuda, Narasingh Kerei, Barial Behera and Ganesh Hembram. They belong to Kolho, Bonda, Bathudi, Santhal and Kandha tribes. The team is being coached by Mr. R. K. Jena and Mr. U. K. Mohanty, Chairman of Odisha Rugby Association.

This orientation programme will create awareness among the participants about various Rural Development Schemes and Programmes implemented by the Government and Non-government Agencies in India which will definitely promote the rural development,said Mrs. Veena Shreeram Rao in her inaugural address. Both the organization will do a MoU sign in future for the rural development she informed.

Speaking on the occasion Shri R.N. Dash said that the main aim of the programme is to expedite the development process in rural areas and this programme will be successful if both organizations take initiative in this regard.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. A.Samanta Chancellor informed that this orientation programme is another feather for KIIT in promoting social services.

Among others, Saroj Kumar Das, member of CAPART, Dr.Parmeswar Nayak, Dean School of Management, Prof.S.C De Sarkar Vice chancellor KIIT University, Dr. R.N. Ray, Registrar KIIT University and other officials of KIIT University were present on the occasion.

The orientation programme was attended by articipants from 20 states in the country which will be concluded on 25th September 2007.

Speaking at the inaugural function, His Excellency said that the conferences like these will inspire the young generation of doctors to follow the examples set by eminent senior doctors for their contribution to the development in the health delivery system, while commending Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) in organizing this conference. Reminding the researchers and practitioners present that the people of the state look at them with high hopes and expectations, he stressed upon greater cooperation between Government and NGOs in preventive and curative aspects of healthcare. "The Government should also provide social security for healthcare", he suggested.

Introducing the conference, Prof. K. Patnaik, Organising Secretary informed that Indian Association of Pathologists and Microbiologists was established in 1949 and its Odisha Chapter has a history of 35 years. The association fosters exchange of ideas and promotes interaction among scientists, said Prof. K. C. Nath Sharma, President, IAPM (Odisha Chapter), adding that its membership is growing fast. Pointing to the emergence of new diseases, he called for augmentation of laboratory services at district, divisional and sub divisional level.

Pathologists and microbiologists play an important role in well being of the society and they should keep that in mind while serving the poor and economically disadvantaged sections, said Dr. A. Samanta in his welcome address. He expressed his gratitude to His Excellency the Governor of Odisha for lending support to this conference.

Shri M. C. Bhandare, His Excellency the Governor of Odisha also felicitated eminent microbiologist Prof. L. N. Mohapatra and eminent pathologist Dr. B. K. Nanda for their exemplary contribution to the society. A citation in their honour was read out by Dr. S. C. Dash, Principal KIMS.

The conference is being attended by a large number of pathologists, microbiologists and medical practitioners from different parts of the country and abroad. Shri. P. Parida proposed the vote of thanks. Among others, Vice Chancellor of KIIT University, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar and Registrar, Dr. R. N. Ray were present.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Shri Ghadei said that holistic medicine is an ancient system of healthcare in which a combination of emotional, psychological, spiritual, social and physical factors are used for the prevention of diseases. In many cases where the modern techniques have failed to cure the disease, holistic medicine like naturopathy, accupunture and yoga therapy have proved effective, he added.

Explaining the system of holistic medicine, Dr. Gitanjan Mendis said it an ancient system of treatment for curing disease. It creates awareness and education for healthy living without depending upon medicines, he elaborated. He also expressed his pleasure on excellent educational infrastructure created by KIIT in this part of the country and congratulated its Founder Secretary and Chancellor, Dr. Samanta for undertaking this unique initiative.

In his welcome address, Dr. Samanta told the delegates about the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. He also briefed the visiting dignitaries on the educational programmes and future plans of KIIT University.

Indian Holistic Medical Academy is the foremost organization in the country to popularize holistic system of medicine all over the world. A pioneer in this field, IHMA has conducted several seminars and free medical camps in various parts of India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and other countries to create awareness on this system of medicine.

About four hundred delegates from Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore and UK are participating in the conference, which will have presentation of more than fifty scientific research papers. Among others, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. A. K. Dora and Prof. S.C. Dash, Principal KIMS were present at the inaugural function.

Mr. Naveen Patnaik, Hon'ble Chief Minister, Odisha and Mr. Debasis Nayak, Hon'ble Minister, Sports & Youth Affairs, Odisha felicitated the members of KISS Rugby Team who are all set to fly to London to represent India at international level at a function at State Secretariat on 6th Sept 2007. The 12-member Rugby squad from KISS, a sister concern of KIIT, will be representing India in International Rugby Tournament in London to be held on 24th September, 2007. All travel preparations of these students have been completed.

These young sportspersons had to undergo a rigorous selection and elimination process to play at the international level. Mr. Martin Hansport, Chairman, England Rugby Association who visited Odisha last year to train all the five teams from different schools at KISS campus. KISS team cleared the preliminary hurdle by becoming champion from among the five other participating teams in a tournament held at KISS premises on 18th November last year. Subsequently, 30 students were selected from a first list of 56, who underwent extensive training under the supervision of a World Rugby Association coach. Twenty from this squad proved their worth in a tournament at Kolkata on 16th July 2007, before final team of twelve members was chosen to fly to London to play in the International Tournament.

However, the great achievement of KISS rugby squad has not been easy. It is a culmination of a strict practice regimen of five hours every day. Bikash Chandra Murumu is captaining the squad. The young boys on the challenging mission will be seen off by 5000 tribal students of KISS and others on 17th September, 2007, who will be closely following the Tournament and constantly cheering their team.

Expressing happiness at the feat of the tribal students, Dr. A. Samanta, Secretary, KISS said this time tribal students of KISS have done our country proud by their performance in Rugby. The fact that tribal students have excelled in rugby, which is a traditional sport of western countries, reflects their hidden talents. Dr. Samanta expressed confidence that the squad will perform well.

KIIT University and Wipro Technologies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to start basic diploma courses under Industry-Institute-partnership Programme. Under the partnership, short-term postgraduate courses spanning 6 months to 1 year in Technology Infrastructure Service (TIS) will also be offered.

These courses will cater to the growing demand of skilled manpower in IT infrastructure management service (IMS). It is becoming a real challenge for all IT companies in India to get manpower with right skills for IMS. These courses will be conducted as per customized course curriculum prepared by Wipro. Trainers will be arranged by Wipro to train the teachers of KIIT for successfully conducting these courses with an aim to prepare IT industry ready manpower for IMS practice.

KIIT University signed another MOU with Wipro, under which diploma students of KIIT will be trained in English language communication skill with customized course curriculum to make them industry ready in IMS practice. Apart from this initiative, Wipro will be conducting recruitment drive for Diploma students of this university every year to select meritorious students through its normal selection procedure.

Terming this agreement as yet another expression of KIIT's focus on quality partnership with industry, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University said that the resulting academic programmes will greatly enhance the employability of diploma graduates in the State which is languishing till date.

Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. R.N. Ray, Registrar, Mr. Suvas Mohapatra, GM, Wipro Technologies, Mr. Parthasarthy Vardhan, Head TIS academy and other senior officers of KIIT and Wipro were present at the memorandum signing ceremony.

The Regional Workshop on Capacity Building of State and District Level Functionaries for Developing Comprehensive District Agricultural Plan (CDAP), organized by School of Rural Management of KIIT University in collaboration with NABARD, was inaugurated by Prof. Abhijit Sen and Mr. B. N. Yugandhar, Hon'ble Members of Planning Commission here on Friday. The two-day workshop, which covers seven states of eastern India, is a part of Planning Commission's initiative to decentralise the process of planning in the country. Similar workshops will be organised for northern, southern and western states soon.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Prof. Abhijit Sen said that District Plan is a basic requirement for every state for the development of grass root level. Such plan should include areas such as Education, Health and Women and Children Development, he stressed, while pointing out that District Agricultural Plan is a Constitutional requirement. While Ministry of Panchyati Raj had decided to develop district plan two years ago, the process has been started this year, Prof. Sen informed. District level planning will substantially increase the agricultural yielding, Mr. Yugandhar elaborated. He requested the Government of Odisha to expedite the district level planning process.

Welcoming the delegates, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor of KIIT University expressed confidence that the workshop will help the localised planinng process and will lead to plan formulation which takes into account people's aspirations. Observing that this type of workshop is the first of its kind in the state, he said it will be immensely beneficial for the eastern region, which is one of the poorest in the country. He expressed his gratitude to Prof .Abhijit Sen, Mr. B. N. Yugandhar, NABARD authorities and other officials making this workshop a success.

KIIT School of Rural Management would undertaken the pilot project for decentralised agricultural plan in three districts of Odisha, informed its Dean, Prof. Haribandhu Panda, adding that this planning model will be replicated in other districts in due course of time.

The workshop was attended by Advisors, Directors and Consultants of the Commission; Secretaries of Planning, Agriculture and Panchayatiraj; District Collectors, Directors of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, representatives of Agriculture Universities and NGOs belonging to seven states, namely, Assam, Bihar, Chhatisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Tripura and West Bengal.

The two-day workshop is being organized by KIIT School of Rural Management (KSRM) in collaboration with NABARD. The Planning Commission has identified KSRM, a constituent of KIIT University, for capacity building of the state and district level functionaries of eastern region, providing handholding support in the district and production of training material and district plan guidelines. Seven states, namely Assam, Bihar, Chhatisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Tripura and West Bengal, constitute eastern region.

Talking to the press on the eve of its inauguration, Dr. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University, expressed confidence that this workshop will be an important milestone in the path of developing people's plan through the involvement of Panchayati Raj institutions and participation of vulnerable sections of the society in the country as mandated by the Constitution of India. He thanked the Planning Commission for involving KIIT in the process.

The Pilot Project, launched in the selected districts, aims to reorient agricultural planning at the district level and below and to address agricultural productivity and livelihood issues and 'participatory planning' through convergence strategies in these districts spread across varying agro-climatic regions. A preliminary interface on the subject was organized by the Planning Commission in New Delhi with the Collectors and Chief Executive Officers of 25 districts in November 2006.

It will accelerate the process of preparation of district agricultural plans keeping in view the priorities emerging at the district level through participatory grassroots level planning signifying a major shift from top-down state-centric planning to bottom-up people-centered approach.

The workshop would set the path for the current and future development of the eastern region in the country, said Prof. Hadibandhu Panda, Dean, KSRM.

The workshop was attended by Prof. Abhijit Sen and Shri B. N. Yugandhar, both Hon'ble Members of Planning Commission; Senior Advisors, Directors and Consultants of the Commission; Secretaries of Planning, Agriculture and Panchayatiraj; District Collectors, Directors of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, representatives of Agriculture Universities and NGOs from the region.

Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Punjab National Bank, Dr. Kamelesh Chandra Chakrabarty visited Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, here on Monday. Dr. Chakrabarty, who is on a two-day official visit to Odisha, also visited different campuses and facilities of KIIT. Interacting with staff and students of the institute, he expressed pleasure on the excellent educational infrastructure created by KIIT in this part of the country, while complimenting the vision and tireless efforts of its Founder Secretary, Dr. Achyuta Samanta. He thanked Dr. Samanta for his philanthropic work for the society.

Dr. Chakrabarty was taken around the classrooms, vocational training center, coaching center, computer laboratory and students' residences of KISS, which is the largest tribal school in the country. Dr. Samanta briefed him about the educational programmes and the employment opportunities for the tribal students. KISS has picked the tribal students out of their poverty stricken families to offer free education to provide them a slice of mainstream life, he said.

This year students of as many as 12 nationalities have taken admission into various courses of KIIT University, further strengthening its community of international students. The University, which has been attracting students from SAARC countries for last few years, has also attracted students from countries such Malaysia, Oman, Canada, Iraq, East Africa, Saudi Arabia and Brutisian this year. The growing popularity of its courses at world arena proves the excellence of KIIT in education at international level.

Students admitted in the School of Technology of KIIT University are undergoing two-day Orientation Programme which will conclude on Tuesday. Classes will start on Wednesday.

KIIT with ten sprawling intelligent wireless e-campuses adjacent to each other has world class infrastructure and highly qualified faculties. It has shown agility to introduce innovative pedagogy and new curriculum to meet the changing needs of the present day knowledge of society. Speaking at the Orientation Programme for students admitted in School of Technology of the university, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University thanked the foreign students for choosing KIIT University as a destination of higher education and wished them a bright future. KIIT will continue its endeavourer for upgrading quality of education, which will further boost the foreign admission here, he said.

The students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, are going to celebrate 60th Independence Day with super-hit 93.5 SFM. The occasion will feature a variety of competitions like fun contests, quiz, tribal songs and cricket match between KISS and SFM teams.

While the KISS team is captained by Ollywood superstar Anubhava Mohanty, the SFM team would be led by Ricky Raj. The running commentary will be delivered by Mr. Jitu Satpathy, Ex-Ranji Player and Nisant, India's youngest commentator of Limca Book of Records fame.

The SFM team will spend the whole day with the tribal students at KISS campus from 6 am to 8 pm and the programme will be broadcasted live. SFM has also organized a slogan contest at KIIT campus where everyone has the opportunity to win exciting prizes.

The SFM team intends to set up an Audio Visual Room for the KISS students in its campus as an Independence Day gift for the tribal students.

Shri Rameshwar Thakur, His Excellency the Governor of Odisha felicitated 44 tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, a sister concern of KIIT, at a function in Governor House on 9th August 2007.

Achievements of the tribal students of KISS prove that our country has got independence in true sense, said His Excellency speaking at the felicitation ceremony. The institute has key contribution in preparing these students for high achievement, he said, while congratulating Dr. A. Samanta, Founder Secretary, KISS and Chancellor, KIIT University for his and his institution's services to the deprived tribal children. Students' parents should also be honoured, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Samanta said KISS has been successful in achieving a unique identity of its own. He expressed his gratitude to His Excellency Governor for taking note of the achievements of the students and said "it will encourage them and their fellow students further". He also announced reservation for meritorious students passing out from KISS in the prestigious courses of KIIT University.

Students of this institute have been in news recently for their achievements in academic and extracurricular activities. They achieved cent percent success record in matriculation with a number of them securing the first division. At Plus Two level, ninety nine percent passed the exam, way ahead of the state average of 59 percent. Besides academic, KISS students have also excelled in sports debates and other co-curricular activities; notably, selection of the institute's rugby team to play in London and selection of the students to represent Odisha in the prestigious National Children's Science Congress.

Lady Governor and other senior Government functionaries were present on the occasion. Dr. Prasanta Routray, CEO, KISS presented the institute's annual report.

Tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, will get the unique opportunity of pursuing higher education at Penn State University York, a leading university of USA. This never before opportunity is brought to them by its Chancellor, Dr. Joel M. Rodney, who is presently on a three-day visit to KIIT. This is his second visit to the institute within a span of one year. During his first visit, he had shown keen interest for educational advancement of students of KISS.

Divulging details of the proposal to the mediapersons at a news meet here on Sunday, Dr. Rodney said that fifteen tribal students after completion of +2 level course at KISS would be chosen to pursue higher studies at Penn State University York. Funding for their study and stay at Penn State University York will be arranged from different sources in USA, he elaborated, adding that he is actively exploring possibilities of roping in other US based Universities to offer similar scheme for the students of KISS, which will extend this opportunity to more number of students.

The selected students can pursue Science, Commerce, Computers, Management or any other subject depending upon their interest and aptitude. A group of students from different US Universities will train the students in American English prior to their departure, Dr. Rodney informed.

Terming this gesture of Dr. Rodney as magnanimous, Dr. A. Samanta informed that the chosen students will be provided with special training in English and communication skills by KIIT faculty. The students of this Institute have time and again proven that they are second to none in the country, he said, while expressing confidence that they will shine at international level also. The selection of 16 students of this institute to participate in a Rugby Tournament in London is a recent example, he added. These achievements point to the fact that KISS has been effectively able to bring the deprived tribal children to the mainstream, Dr. Samanta asserted.

Prof. Rodney, who arrived in KIIT on Friday, was pleased to see the developments at KISS since his last visit. He was amused to learn that the Institute, which is home to 5000 tribal children from 28 states of Odisha and provides education upto postgraduate level, now has the distinction to feature in the Limca Book of Records as the largest tribal school of the world.

The windfall came during a visit of Pennsylvania State University chancellor Joel M.Rodney.

Rodney, who was on a three day visit to the state, was greatly impressed by the performance of the students here. So much so that he pledged to extend his university's support to 15 students for studying in the USA after they complete their higher secondary grade.

In October 2006, the university, one of the best in the world, signed and MoU with KIIT varsity, for collaborative programmes in IT and computer science. In fact, Rodney had earlier announced his university's plans to adopt five disabled kids for higher education in his country.

"These tribal children are brilliant and possess talent to compete with the world's best minds, we just want to give them the opportunity they richly deserve," Rodney said. "But before they come to our country they will go through a training programme to enable them to pick up American English fast,' he added, "This is a glorious moment for KIIT, a new feather in our cap and a unique offer to study in one of the best universities in the world and prove their talents," said KIIT University chancellor Achier Samantha.

KIIT runs a residential school for poor tribal children who get free education right up to the post graduate level.

The Chancellor of Penn State University York, Dr. Joel M. Rodney arrived at KIIT on Friday to discuss different avenues of cooperation with KIIT University. This is the second visit of Dr. Rodney. On his earlier visit in 2006, the Penn State University York, a leading university in USA, had signed an Memorandum of Understanding with KIIT University to promote mutual interests in academic, scientific, technical and cultural fields. During his three-day visit to KIIT, he will discuss the various issues pertaining to the MoU, which provides for cooperation between the two institutions from +2 to postgraduate level, joint scientific research and faculty professional development.

Expressing happiness on the new courses launched by KIIT University from the current academic year, Dr. Rodney said the institute has a key contribution in changing the shape and direction of technical and management education in this part of the world and very soon it will be among the best universities in the world. Dr.Rodney congratulated Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor of KIIT University for his vision and tireless effort.

He also interacted with the tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) and encouraged them to excel in their studies. He expressed happiness on the excellent performance of the students of this school in academics, co-curricular activities and sports. During his last visit to this largest tribal school of the country, he had expressed the desire to provide opportunity to five students from the school for higher studies in USA.

Expressing his gratitude to Dr. Rodney, Dr. Samanta said that KIIT is looking forward to a creative and rich collaboration with Penn State University York, which will not only benefit the two universities, but also the academic fraternity of the state and country. He thanked the Chancellor of Penn State University York for helping the tribal students of KISS to get exposure at international level.

An eleven member team of senior journalists from Banglaore visited Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, on Thursday and interacted with the students and staff.

They also visited different campuses and facilities of KIIT. Expressing pleasure on the excellent educational infrastructure created by KIIT in this part of the country, they stated that the facilities here are comparable with even the best institutes of South India, which is regarded as the country's educational hub. All these have been possible because of vision and tireless efforts of one person, its Founder Secretary, they added.

The visiting scribes were also taken around various facilities of KISS, the largest tribal school in the country, such as classrooms, vocational training center, coaching center, computer laboratory and students' residences. Dr. A. Samanta, Secretary of KISS & KIIT briefed the national level journalists about the education programmes and the employment opportunities for the tribal students. Congratulating Dr. A. Samanta for creating successful institution like KIIT, they lauded the role of KISS in creating educational and employment opportunities for the tribals.

US-India relationship extends far beyond the nuclear agreement, said Mr. Henry V. Jardine, Consul General of the United States of America in his talk on Emerging Trends in US-Indian Relations at KIIT School of Management on 31st July 2007. The two countries will be working together in a host of areas including science, technology, civil nuclear energy, space, democracy, HIV/AIDS research and so on, he elaborated, while adding that considerable ground has been covered in past two years.

"United States is India's single largest national trading partner", he told a large audience comprising of students, faculty and staff of KIIT University. India's trade surplus with US between January and May 2007 is already more than USD 4 billion, he added.

Welcoming Mr. Jardine to the campus, Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta said that the university has rich ties with US organizations, including a research and academic collaboration with Penn State University. KIIT has earned its place among prestigious institutions in the country such as JNU and IITs, he said, while introducing KIIT to the Consul General.

Mr Jardine interacted with the students and faculty of KIIT School of Management and visited various campuses of KIIT University. He expressed his pleasure on excellent educational infrastructure created by KIIT in this part of the country.

Mr. Jardine also visited Kalinga Insitute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, and interacted with the students of this largest tribal school of the country. Briefing him on facilities offered at KISS, Founder Secretary of KIIT & KISS, Dr. A. Samanta explained that the school provides free education and residence to 5000 tribal students drawn from 28 districts of Odisha. The school provides facilities such as modern classroom, vocational training centres, coaching center and computer laboratory. Mr. Jardine congratulated Dr. A. Samanta for rendering services to the children of deprived sections of the society.

Among others, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Registrar, R. N. Ray and directors of different wings of KIIT were present.

KIIT has fast emerged as a diversified educational conglomerate offering academic programmes from kindergarten to postgraduate level. KIIT University, which was established in 2004 under Section 3 of UGC Act, 1956, has been ever since creating benchmark of quality education and producing competent human resources for corporate sector and society at large.
Academic programmes of the University are conducted by its four constituent schools - School of Technology, School of Biotechnology, School of Management and School of Rural Management. These Schools currently offers B.Tech., MTech, MCA, MSc (Biotechnology), MBA, MBA in Rural Management and doctoral and post-doctoral programmes in technology, management, humanities and basic science. KIIT National Law School (KNLS), set up in 2007, is a new addition to the KIIT Group of Institutions.

KNLS fills up the absence of a national law school in Odisha and will meet the surging demand for legal professionals in the wake of globalization and rapid expansion of corporate sector and influx of multinationals in the country.

Prof. Mitra has been instrumental in setting up almost all reputed national law schools in the country. Notably, he is Former Director of National Law School of India University, Bangalore and Former Vice Chancellor of National Law School, Jodhpur. He also played a pivotal role in establishment of Law Academy in Kolkata and a law school in IIT, Kharagpur. In his own words, "KNLS will produce a new generation of knowledge and competent pool of legal professionals, who will be highly successful at national and international levels".

KNLS is offering Five Year Integrated Law Programmes (B.A.LL.B; B.Sc.LLB; and BBA.LL.B) as well as Three Year LL.B course from the current academic year. Recognition of Bar Council of India is forthcoming soon. The School has put in place a competent and experienced team of faculty drawn from reputed law schools in the country to ensure a high standard of academics. Besides, experts from different law schools in the country will be the visiting faculty here. The School is headed by distinguished and dynamic 48-year old academician, Prof. (Dr.) Faizan Mustafa, who is Former Dean and Registrar of Law School, Aligarh Muslim University. KSNL is working on a blueprint, which will put it into the league of top law schools in the country, said Prof. Mustafa.

Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. Samanta expressed confidence that with the involvement towering personalities like Prof. Mitra and Prof. Mustafa, KNLS will soon emerge as one of the most successful law schools in the country. With the establishment of this school, much sought after third generation five-year integrated law curriculum will be available at the doorsteps of the students of Odisha.

The one year programme covers the basics of banking, retail credit, corporate and business credit, rural finance, customer service and business etiquette amongst others. This offering is a blend of Instructor Led Training (ILD), assignments and self paced e-learning and skill enhancement /stimulator lab sessions. The ILD aspect is being supported by ICICI Bank.

The course is a sequel to the memorandum of understanding signed between the University and ICICI Bank to jointly promote educational initiative in the field of banking and finance in May this year. Taking into account the academic excellence of KIIT University and its excellent infrastructural facilities, Mr. K. V. Kamath, CEO & MD of ICICI Bank had also inaugurated an ICICI e Learning Centre here to facilitate such initiatives.

While outstanding graduates of this course will get an opportunity to work with the ICICI Bank, placement for all the successful graduates will be organized through the Placement Cell of the University. The programme provides a unique opportunity for unemployment graduates of the State to capitalize on and be successful in today's fast growing banking and insurance sector, said Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta.

Graduates in any discipline are eligible to apply and selection will be through written test followed by group discussion and personal interviews. Application form can be downloaded from www.ibat.ac.in

"Squmous cell carcinoma was the exact form of oral cancer from which Mr. Swain was suffering and the cancer had involved left half of mandible, tongue, floor of the mouth and part of the neck with some extension to right side. It was required to remove all the involved parts by performing surgeries like Radical Neck Dissection (RND), partial mandibulectomy and partial glossectomy" said Dr. Mishra. The surgery is regarded as very complicated and took almost 10 hours to complete. While the surgery plays a very vital role in the treatment of oral cancer, overall prognosis depends on subsequent radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Dr. Niranjan Mishra is working as an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon at Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences (KIDS), a sister concern of KIIT.

"RND, an integral part of cancer surgery, is still a challenging and difficult work as it involves dissection of neck region where very vital structures lie" said Dr. Panda, while expressing satisfaction at good recovery without any complication of the patient.

The instrument and equipment at PBMH is well suited to offer the latest diagnostic and treatment modalities in the field of oral cancer, said Dr. Pathi, adding that the hospital also focuses on the prevention side of the problem. "Mr. Swain was discharged to the general ward after a 10 days stay in the ICU and he was able to take liquid food and speak little", informed Dr. Senapati who was first Assistant to Dr. Mishra.

KIIT has organised a special recruitment drive by IT giant Wipro for diploma students from across the state at KIIT campus from 16th July 2007. Total 1074 students from 20 private and government polytechnics are participating in this drive, which has been organised in view of poor campus placement opportunities for diploma in engineering graduates. Out of the total number of aspirants, 110 belong to Kalinga Polytechnic, the diploma in engineering wing of KIIT.

The placement drive is for graduates in IT, Computer Science, Electronics & Telecommunications, Electrical, Mechanical and Computer Hardware branches. Ten member placement team of Wipro conducted writen test on Monday in which 256 students were shortlisted for interviews. Total 50 students from Kalinga Polytechnic have been shortlisted, which is the highest from any single polytechnic participating in the drive. The placement team expressed their satisfaction with the calibre of students from Kalinga Polytechnic, which is a testimony of quality curriculum offered here. Kalinga Polytechnic is also the first and only private Polytechnic in the State to offer Satellite Communication course.

Chancellor, KIIT University and Secretary, KIIT, Dr. A. Samanta congratulated the shortlisted students from different polytechnics of the State and expressed gratitude to Wipro recruitment team from providing such a unique opportunity to the diploma students. Dr. Samanta had been in consultation with Wipro and other top notch companies for last six month for their participation in campus placement programme for diploma students. However. he regretted the poor performance of the students in the drive, while underscoring the need to raise the academic standard across the board. Even as this is the first campus placement by Wipro for Diploma students in Odisha, similar recruitment drives by other top companies are in the pipeline, he informed.

The pahandi, the procession of deities from temple sanctum to the chariots began in the morning as per the ethics and rituals of Mahaprabhu Shri Jaganath Temple of Puri Devotees pulled the three chariots in the afternoon after Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University performed the holy ritual of cherapahanra, the ceremonial sweeping of the chariots. The deities reached at their aunt's house, which is situated at KIIT premises.

As a special feature of Rath Yatra, Devadalan, the chariot carrying the Goddess Subhadra was pulled only by women. The traditional procession was led with traditional musical instruments.

Special sculptors from Puri were involved in making the chariots, according to the sources. Like last year, Sunabesha, Bahuda Yatra, Ahara Pana and other rituals will be observed here this year also.

This temple is set up on the suggestion of Gajapati Maharaja Shri Dibya Singh Dev and it was inaugurated in the presence of Gajapati Maharaja Shri Dibya Singh Dev, and Swami Nirlipta Nanda Sarswati, Vice President of Dibya Jiban Association.

A national workshop on Assessment, Diagnosis and Remediation of Mental Disorder (Autism) was organized by Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, a sister concern of KIIT, at its campus here on Saturday. The workshop was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Nalini Menon, Head - Rainbow Centre for Autism, Bangalore.

Welcoming the participants to the workshop, Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta informed that KIMS would soon have a modern centre for treatment and research on autism to be set up under able guidance of Dr. Menon. Observing that a majority of the patients from the State have to go to Bangalore for the treatment of this disorder, he pointed out that the proposed autism center at KIMS will be immensely beneficial for the patients as we as researchers in the field.

Autism is not localized in India, but prevalent in all parts of the world, said Dr. Menon in her inaugural address. Elaborating on the conditions and symptoms of autism, she said even though it is not curable, it is possible to check it at prenatal or postnatal stages if parents approach the problem with a positive attitude.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. K .C. Panda, Ex-Principal, Regional Institute of Education said the AUTISM is a pervasive developmental neurological disorder, which is detectable from age of three onwards in affected children. The proposed autism center at KIMS would be the first of its kind in the state, he informed. Research and education on autism is a priority area of Ministry of Human Resources Development, he said, while observing that any university in the state is yet to start a research facility.

Among others, Principal, KIMS, Dr. S. C. Dash and General Manager, Mr. P. Parida also spoke at the workshop. More that 60 participants including parents of the patients attended and benefited from the workshop.

The induction programme for the first batch of MBA in Rural Management (MRM) programme of KIIT School of Rural Management (KSRM), one of the four constituent schools of KIIT University, commenced here on 2nd July 2007. The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Abhijit Sen, Hon'ble Member of Planning Commission, Government of India in the presence of Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor KIIT University, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancellor, Prof. L. K. Vaswani, Director, KSRM and Dr. R. N. Ray, Registrar.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Prof Sen advised KSRM to manage the dichotomy of developing manpower for profit and non profit organizations. He explained the cooperative movement and the Panchyat Raj Institutions in India. Rural India has huge untapped potential but the country needs vast number of rural institutions and trained manpower to unlock them, said Prof. Sen. He also commended KIIT's initiative in this regard.

KSRM aims to catalyse the process of sustainable and holistic rural development with justice to eliminate rural-urban divide India as well as in South East Asia, informed Dr. A. Samanta. Like schools of Technology and Management of KIIT University, KSRM is modeled to become the best in its category in the country, said Prof. S. C. De Sarkar.

The 13 day induction programme has been segmented into three parts including interactive session with NGOS dignitaries, institution visit and village stay, informed KSRM Director, Prof. Vaswani, adding that the school fulfills the void of an integrated institute in the field of management and development studies in Eastern India. Total 84 students coming from 17 states of the country are participating in the programme.

MBA in Rural Management is a two-year residential programme, which will prepare students to man senior positions in rural institutions, NGOs, Banks and so on. Students have the option of specializing in the areas of rural development management and agribusiness management.

It may be recalled that the foundation stone of the School was laid by Dr. Verghese Kurien, the Father of White Revolution on 20th November 2006. KSRM is the 'second IRMA' of India, a long standing dream of Dr, Kurien.

A temple of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, was inaugurated and consecrated with traditional pomp and fanfare, here on Thursday. The murty of Lord Shri Jagannath, Lord Balbhadra, Deity Subhadra and Lord Sudarshan, Maa Bimala, Maa Mahalaxmi were consecrated in an elaborate vedic ceremony spanning six days.

This is the first and only temple of its kind in Odisha, which has been established as per ethics and rituals of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath Temple of Puri, informed Gajapati Maharaja Shri Dibya Singh Dev after inaugurating the temple. He thanked Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University & Secretary, KISS for his commitment towards the social and spiritual development of people.

Speaking on the occasion, Pandit Suryanarayan Rath Sharma explained the cult of Lord Jagannath and elaborated on the rituals and ethics of Shri Jagannath Temple of Puri. Vice President of Divya Jiban Association, Swami Nirlipta Nanda Sarswati delivered a spiritual discourse to the gathering. Dr. Samanta, Secretary, KISS expressed his gratitude to the Gajapati Maharaja and spiritual fraternity of the state, in general, for their benevolence and cooperation. Eight sculptors from Puri, who have built the temple, were also felicitated on the occasion.

According to the sources, this temple is set up on the suggestion of Gajapati Maharaja Shri Dibya Singh Dev and special sculptors from Puri were involved in its construction. The consecration ceremony commenced on 25th June 2007 and concluded on 30th June. Yagna, Prabachana Sankritan and cultural programme featuring live performance by eminent vocalists marked the occasion.

Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancelor, KIIT University, Dr. R. N. Ray, Registrar, staff and students of KIIT and eminent personalities from all walks of life were present on the occasion.

KIIT University signed an MoU with Regional Medical Research Centre, (RMRC) Bhubaneswar for joint collaboration in carrying out research in the field of medicine and offering each other's platform in pursing higher studies on 25th June 2007 at KIIT campus.

The MoU was signed between KIIT University Vice Chancellor Prof. S. C. De Sarkar and RMRC Director Dr. S. K. Kar in the presence of Dr. A. Samanta Chancellor, KIIT University. Under the agreement, scientists and research fellows of RMRC will enroll for PhD programmes at KIIT University under joint supervision and RMRC will provide necessary assistance for the same.

KIIT faculty and RMRC scientists would explore the possibilities of preparation of joint research proposal on thrust areas and areas of social importance for undertaking research and submission to funding agency for sponsorship. Some of the rural technologies developed by RMRC can be taken up jointly for dissemination in the State. Both organization will extend their research and library facilities to the scientists faculty members scholars and M. Tech students. B.Tech and M.Tech students of KIIT University will do their summer training at the center.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. A. Samanta said "this is a great partnership which will usher in a new phase in technical education in Odisha". He also added that technologies should upgrade for the improvement of rural life , agriculture and health. The MoU would be valid for 5 years. Among others Dr. R.N Ray Registrar KIIT University, Prof. S.C Das , Principal KIMs and senior faculty members were present on the occasion.

SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIPS FOR KIITEE 2007 TOPPERS

• The toppers of both BTech and MCA streams of KIITEE '07 would get full fees waiver.
• Special scholarships of Rs.3,000 per month are given to rank holders from 1 to 10. (B.Tech 4 yrs only)
• Special scholarships of Rs. 2000 per month are given to rank holders from 11 to 50. (B.Tech 4 yrs only)
  

The KIIT Entrance Examination 2007 (KITTEE '07) conducted by KIIT University for admission into its B.Tech, M.Tech, M.Sc. (Biotechnology) and MCA programmes were declared today. In all, 12,123 students from India and abroad were included in the merit list for degree engineering programme, while 1469 were selected for the MCA.

About 35 thousand students appeared the test held in 60 centers across the country and 5 centers abroad on June 3rd. Among the students, Rousan Singh topped the list for B.Tech, while Subahsis Mishra topped the MCA list. Supriya Kritiman topped among the girls in engineering. The toppers of both BTech and MCA streams of KIITEE '07 would get full waiver of fees. Special scholarships of Rs.3,000 and Rs. 2000 per month are given to rank holder from 1 to 10 and 11 to 50 respectively (B.Tech 4 yrs only). According to the release, 996 students in engineering and 305 students are selected for counselling, scheduled from 17th July to 22nd July on KIIT premises. The classes would begin on August 20.

As per the University norms, KIIT fills 35 percent of the seats from the successful candidates of the AIEEE, while 50 percent of the seats are filled up through KIITEE. KIIT also follows the government guidelines on reservation for SC & ST candidates. Thirty percent seats are reserved for women candidates.

The six-day long puja to inaugurate and consecrate Mahaprabhu Lord Shri Jagannath Temple at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, will commence from 25th June 2007. The Chatrudha Murty of Lord Shri Jagannath, Lord Balbhadra, Deity Subhadra and Lord Sudrashan, Maa Bimala and Maa Mahalaxmi will be consecrated in the ceremony.

While the ceremony will be inaugurated by Gajapati Maharaja Shri Dibya Singh Dev, His Excellency Shri Rameswar Thakur, the Governor of Odisha has kindly consented to be the Chief guest of the function on 28th June 2007. Swami Nirlipta Nanda Sarswati, Vice President of Divya Jiban Association will preside over the ceremony. Yagna, Prabachana Sankritan and cultural programmes will mark the occasion.

According to the sources this temple is being set up on the suggestion of Gajapati Maharaja Shri Dibya Singh Dev as per ethics and laws of the Puri Jaganath temple. So special sculptors from Puri have built the temple at KISS. Every year Rath Yatra is also observed here. Dr. A. Samanta, Secretary KISS has expressed his gratitude to the Gajapati Maharaja and other sadhus for their cooperation. Important persons from all walks of life from all over the country will attend the ceremony.

The survey was conducted on the five basic parameters such as intellectual capital, pedagogic system, industry interface, infrastructure and facilities and placements. It is worth mentioning that while rest of the colleges figuring in the list are at least 50 years old, KIIT is hardly ten years old. Therefore, KIIT's inclusion in the list is no mean achievement. It proves the excellence of KIIT in the technical education scenario, and quality of education that is being imparted here. The news came as a pleasant surprise to the founder members, faculties and students, who thanked the officials of the magazine for conducting such a vast survey among all the engineering institutes of India which ultimately enhances the quality of technical education as well as boosts the morals of young institutes like KIIT.

When contacted Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta expressed his satisfaction and assured to continue his endeavour for upgrading quality of education at KIIT. The improved ranking proves that KIIT is gaining reputation by leaps and bounds, he said, adding that at this rate it will not be surprising to find KIIT among top ten engineering colleges in the country in the coming year.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Mr. Basu observed that Odisha being underdeveloped compared to other states in the field of health care, it needs more number of hospitals as well as doctors. Only this would enable poor patients to access quality health care. He appreciated KIMS effort in this regard and congratulated its promoter Dr. Samanta for setting up this modern hospital in this part of the country.

With ultra-modern equipment and unparalleled infrastructure facilities, KIMS is reckoned as a premier medical institute in the State. It is spread over 60 acres of land with a built-up area of 4.61 lakh square feet that houses an upcoming medical college and the attached 350-bedded Pradyumna Bal Memorial Hospital. KIMS is modeled to become a super-specialty hospital. Facilities presently available here include a fully functional six bedded hemodialysis unit benefiting several patients from this life saving treatment. Neurology, neurosurgery and urology units, presently functional with qualified consultants, are undergoing major development.

The hospital has a ten bedded casualty ward and a fully functional Intensive Care Unit equipped with life supporting devices like ventilator, defibrillator, bed side ECG, bedside X-Ray and immediate blood analysis with specialized doctors to attend the patients round the clock. A minor operation theatre, attached to the casualty, attends to minor surgical problems of the patients. Other facilities include ultrasound and multi sliced CT Scan and laporoscopic abdominal surgery including cholecystectomy. Round the clock ambulance and blood transfusion services are also available.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. A. Samanta assured that KIMS would be providing best medical facility to all at nominal cost. He also added that KIIT would continue its endeavor of providing quality education with strong social commitment along with providing better health services through its wing, KIMS.

Cent percent pass record for the tribal students of KISS is no mean achievement considering the fact that State level pass percent in general Schools is much lower at 59%. It is a repeat performance of the school in HSC examination last year, pointing to the consistency in academic quality here.

This is not an stand alone achievement for KISS students in academics. The students of this school have been in news frequently for their achievements in various fields such as co curricular activities and sports, besides academics. Notably they have been representing Odisha in prestigious National Children's Science Congress for past two years. Recently they have been selected to represent India in Rugby tournament to be held in London later this year.

KISS is a unique initiative of KIIT which provides free cost of education, living, vocational training to 3,000 tribal students from 26 district of Odisha.

Congratulating the students for their resounding success, Dr. A. Samanta, Secretary, KISS said that all round achievement of the students of KISS, both in academic and extra curricular activities, is a testimony to the fact that with little support and guidance the tribal children can join the mainstream of the society and effectively compete and even outperform students of the best schools.

The meet observed excellent performance of the Alumni as reflected in their career graphs and positions in various corporates. Dr. A. Samanta briefed the participants on the new developments of the University and its future plan. The participants appreciated the contribution of KIIT University in educational development in Odisha.

The Association felicitated Dr. Samanta for his contribution in the field of technical education and donated a token contribution to Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT and the largest tribal school in the country. The Alumni has also announced a scholarship for the underprivileged students as a part of their belongingness to the alma mater.

Four Budding entrepreneurs who have excelled in their respective fields were felicitated by the Chancellor. Dr. Samanta also inaugurated the website of KIIT Alumni, www.kiitaa.org

A memorandum of understanding was signed between the ICICI Bank Ltd and KIIT University here on 26th May, 2007 to jointly promote educational initiative in the field of banking and finance. Under this maiden initiative of two leading organizations in the country, regular PG Diploma, Diploma and Certificate Courses in banking and financial services will be offered at KIIT campus.

An ICICI e-Learning Center was also inaugurated by Mr. K. V. Kamath, MD & CEO, ICICI Bank Ltd at Krishna Campus, the School of Management, of KIIT University.

The MOU was signed by Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, Vice Chancellor, KIIT University and Ms. Swati Datye, Deputy General Manager of ICICI in the presence of Mr. K. V. Kamath and Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University. Expressing his gratitude to the ICICI Bank and its CEO Mr. Kamath, Dr. Samanta expressed confidence that the agreement will bridge the gap between the requirement of the industry and corporate sector and the curriculum offered in the University.

The Bank will lend the services of its professionals for designing the curriculum and training the faculty of KIIT, as well as provide internship facility to the students admitted into the course, assured Mr. Kamath.

The e-Leaning Centre is a complete unit with latest e-Learning resources where students of KIIT University can access e-Leaning courseware for banking developed by ICICI, informed Prof. Sarkar. Placement support will be provided to the students.

The agreement was signed at the initiative of the Government of Odisha as a part of Industry-Academic collaboration. Senior officials from ICICI and KIIT were present on the occasion.

Rugby team of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT and the largest tribal school in the country has been selected to represent India for Rugby tournament to be held in London later this year. The team is all set to challenge teams from various schools of different countries in the tournament. The 30-member KISS team, comprising of tribal students below the age of 14 years, is undergoing extensive trainng under the supervision of a World Rugby Association coach since 7 th May 2007. Out of 30 members, 20 will be selected to participate in a tournament in Kolkata scheduled to be held on 16 th July 2007. Twelve among them will fly to London to play the tournament there.

According to the sources Mr. Martin Hansport, Chairman, England Rugby Association had visited Odisha last year and gave training to the five teams from different schools at KISS campus. KISS team cleared the preliminary hurdle by becoming champion from among five other participating teams in a tournament held in KISS premises on 18th November last year.

Expressing happiness at the performance of the tribal student, Dr. A. Samanta, Secretary, KISS said that the fact that tribal students have excelled in rugby which is a traditional bastion of western countries reflect their hidden talents. They can be brought out with a little guidance, which KISS is effectively providing, he added.

This is not an stand alone achievement for KISS students in sports. They won a flurry of accolades at national level games like base ball, kabadi and khoko. KISS is a unique initiative of KIIT which provides free cost of education ,living, vocational training to 3,000 tribal students from 26 district of Odisha.

The Prestigious Royal College of Physicians, London has conferred honorary Fellowship (FRCP) on Dr. S.C. Dash who currently is the Principal of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar. Dr. Dash has joined KIMS after working for 31years as the Head of Nephrology, Dialysis & Transplantation Department at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Council of Royal College of Physicians decided to honor Dr. Dash in view of his life long contribution in teaching, treatment & research in the field of Hypertension, Kidney diseases & Dialysis & Transplantation.

During his tenure at AIIMS, Dr. Dash had functioned in several responsible positions assigned by the Union Health Ministry. He is a visiting Professor to several foreign and national institutions. He is the founder of North Zone Indian Society of Nephrology (1991), founder President of Nephrology, Urology, Transplant Society of SAARC countries (1995) and founder & current President of Indian Academy of Nephrology (2005) devoted to prevention of chronic kidney disease. He has published 250 papers, 90 of which are in International journals. He is a recipient of ‘Khullar gold medal Oration’(1989), ‘Eminent citizen of India’ award (1995), ‘Shresth Shree’ award (1997) and ‘Rashtriya Rattan’ in 2004.

Expressing his happiness over the services rendered by this institution to the deprived tribal children, Mr. Adorna congratulated Founder Secretary of KIIT & KISS, Dr. A. Samanta for undertaking this unique initiative. Dr. A. Samanta briefed the visiting dignitaries on the educational programmes for the tribal students. KISS is the largest residential tribal school in the country and it provides free education, residence and all the basic needs to 3000 tribal children belonging to 28 tribes and coming from 26 districts of the state, he informed.

Speaking on the occassion, Jimmy Shergil lauded the efforts of KISS to uplift the lot of downtrodden of the society. Initiatives like this would help fight poverty, he said. Amrita Arora was impressed with the school offering free boarding and eduction to 3,000 children belonging to 28 tribes upto Plus Two level. Earlier, Dr. Samanta outlined the achievements of the students in academics, sports and culture. Comedian Sunil Pal tickled the funny bones with his bag of jokes.

The second day of the function was attended by the Bollywood Producer Boney Kapoor and his actor wife Sridevi. The couple announced an annual Rs. 1.5 lakhs donation for the tribal students.

The Annual Function came to a close on 8th April, 2007 in the presence of Bollywood celebrities Mahima Choudhary, Neha Dhupia and Chunkey Pandey. While Chunkey Pandey encouraged the tribal students to make their institute proud with their achievements, Mahima Choudhary and Neha Dhupia were impressed by the facilities provided to the students. They also promised to bring along stars like Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Hritik Roshan.

It is just beginning of the selection process by blue chip companies, going on the Campus of KIIT University. It is incredible that in its first ever campus selection for the 2008 pass outs from B.Tech and MCA streams of KIIT, 500 students came out with flying colours in the rigourous selection test conducted by three major IT giants including TCS, WIPRO and Infosys. While TCS selected 300 students, creating a sort of record, WIPRO and Infosys could lay their hands on another 200 students. Since the campus selection is going on, the rest of the students are sure to get their berths in other major companies by the end of this month, informed the placement official of KIIT.

The campus abuzz with students and their anxious parents waiting outside became ecstatic when majority of students made their ways into the prestigious companies. “It is worth giving our children in KIIT”, said a beaming parent while another found no words to express his happiness except saying, 'KIIT is KIIT'.

Maybe this explains the unprecedented rush for admission in the B.Tech and MCA programmes in KIIT University. A total of thirty –five thousand applicants have applied for admission in the 400 seats in various streams of B.Tech and MCA programmes, by thus making KIIT, a favourite amongst the aspiring engineers and technocrats.

A total of 35,000 applicants will be vying for only 400 seats in B.Tech and MCA programmes under KIITEE 07 making an impressive ratio of 1:90.

KIIT's stature as one of the best technical Universities in India has gone up considerably, a fact that can be ascertained from the fact that for 50 percent of the total seats thirty-five thousand applications have been received making an impressive ratio of 1:90. It is also pertinent to note here that while 12 thousand applications are received from Odisha, 23 thousand applications have come from outside the state.

We know our quality and we know that our children have the capability to prove but there is no doubt that with 'Quality inputs, we can always expect Quality outputs as well', said the Vice-Chancellor of KIIT, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar. Dr. A Samanta, the Chancellor attributed this success to the blessings of God, the goodwill of all the well-wishers of KIIT and the hard work of students and staff.

In a significant development, Nobel Laureate Prof. (Dr.) Richard R. Ernst has consented to Chair the Advisory Board of KIIT University, Bhubaneswar. He was offered the position by Chancellor of KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta during his visit to the university earlier this year. The move has sent waves of happiness among management, faculty members and students of the university in particular and academic fraternity of Odisha in general.

Prof. Ernst has also committed to visit Odisha twice a year to interact with academic fraternity of KIIT University and the State.

Impressed by the contribution made by KIIT in the field of technical and management education and social service, Prof. Ernst had undertaken a four-day visit to Odisha during January spending generous amount of time for KIIT University. He visited all the laboratories and marveled at the wi-fi facilities created by the KIIT in a state like Odisha.

Reacting to the development, Dr. Samanta expressed his obligation to Prof. Ernst and said that guidance of a personality like him would give a facelift to science and technology education in a developing country like India.

Prof. Ernst was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1991 for his contributions towards the development of multidimensional, Fourier transform nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Bhubaneswar, 16/03/07: Even as the hopes of the entire nation are tied in with the Men in Blue in the ongoing Cricket World Cup in West Indies, students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT and the largest tribal school in the country, wished them success in a unique way here on Friday. At a special function organised at the school campus, the students wished the Team India good luck by writing slogans and signing on a massive bat. They also waved colorful streamers, releasing hydrozen balloons and displayed photographs. A special prayer was organised and akhand deep was lighted on the occasion.

Men in Blue have a special place in the hearts of the tribal students of KISS. Earlier this year, the entire national cricket team and their coach Greg Chappel had visited the school and interacted with the students at length.

Shri Ranjeeb Biswal, Member of BCCI, all the Ranji Cricket players, Kishore Mania, renowned cricket coach, Sradhanjali Samanta Ray, Ranjita Mohanty, Football players, Biranchi Das, Judo Coach, wonder boy Budhia Singh, a number of local, state and national level players of different games and staff and students of different wings of KIIT joined the students of KISS in praying to the almighty for giving them strength to bring home the World Cup.

The World Kidney Day was observed by Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), a sister concern of KIIT, in collaboration with Indian Society of Nephrology, Odisha Nephrology Forum and Health Plus, a non-government organisation, here on Thursday.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Debi Prasad Mishra, Hon'ble Minister of Excise & Tourism, Govt. of Odisha said that kidney failure is a big problem and there is a dearth of well-established kidney dialysis and kidney transplant centers in the State. It is the responsibility of NGOs and the media to spread awareness about this problem among common people. He also mooted more funding for medical colleges in the State to set up advanced Nephrology and Urology facilities.

Prof. Suresh Chandra Das, Principal of KIMS, elaborated upon causes and prevention of kidney disease. Individuals suffering from diabetese and high blood pressure patients must consult nephrologist, if they fail to control the sugar level, he advised. Observing that simple tests like urine and blood urea are often missed, whereas unnecessary tests like CT and MRI scan are mindlessly done in commercial hospitals, he said this only results in incorrect diagnosis

Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University informed that KIMS has initiated measures to upgrade the Nephrology Department and shortly it will offer treatment at par with the best in the country at an affordable cost. The advanced facility, including that of kidney transplantation, will be immensely beneficial for the people of Odisha, he hoped.

Shri Somaya Rajana Pattanaik Chief Editor, The Sambad, Oriya Daily briefed about the role of media and NGOs in prevention of kidney disease. Prof. Khageswar Mohapatra, Chairman, Info In was present on the occasion. A mass awareness rally was also organized from master canteen to PMG square to mark the occasion.

While Ms. Nisha Narayan, SFM Project Head, New Delhi outlined the multiple roles that women have to play in the present day society, Prof. Bijayani Mohanty, HoD, Public Administration, Utkal University pointed out various legal provisions for women.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University asserted that KIIT is a model employer for women. The organization is implementing the agenda of gender equity on a priority basis, he added.

Mrs. Saswati Bal, President of KIIT Society, Dr. R. N. Ray, Registrar, KIIT University and Dr. Sucheta Priyabadini, Deputy Registrar also spoke on the occasion.

Tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a sister concern of KIIT, celebrated the festival of colour with seventeen Ollywood artistes who visited the campus. The visiting artistes included Uttam Mohanty, Hara Pattanaik, Archita, Prakruti Mishra, Dilip Shrichandan, Mithi, Rabindra Nath Das, Adhyapak Biswaranjan, Gourahari Das, Bijay Nayak, Kshirod Das, Laxmikanta Palit, Dr. Bijaya Mohanty, Ipisita Mohanty, Himanshu Khatua, Dilpi Hali and Md. Sikandar Alam.

Shri Chaitanya Prasad Majhi, Hon'ble Minister of SC & ST, Government of Odisha and Secretary, KISS, Dr. A.Samanta were also present on the occasion.

KISS is the largest Tribal School in the country which offers free boarding and education from primary to + 2 science level to 3000 tribal children belonging to 28 tribes coming from 30 districts of Odisha. The artistes encouraged the tribal students and thanked Dr. A. Samanta for his commitment towards the downtrodden class of the society.

KIIT University is going to organize a three-day National Symposium on "Recent Trends in Organometallic Compounds and their Industrial Application", OMCA-07, in collaboration with Department of Chemistry, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar from 26th to 28th February, 2007. A large number of scientists, researchers, professors and students will participate in the symposium.

The ever increasing demand of technology leads to the new inventions. This symposium will bring forward the aspects of research and developments in various industries. This interaction is expected to help the participants to have adequate knowledge on this unique trend and will also help to set the agenda for future research.

According to sources, Prof. S. Chander Sekhar, IISC Bangalore, Prof. N. K. Joshi, NCL Pune, Prof. V. K. Josh, Barac Mumbai, Prof. Pranjit Ghoss, IIT Mumbai, Prof. A. K. Singh, IIT Delhi, Prof. Rabishanker, IIT Delhi and Prof. Mihiri Choudhary, IIT Guwahati will participate in the symposium.

The topics to be covered in the symposium are structure and bonding, valence isomerisation and ring slippage reactions, activation of saturated hydrocarbons, organometallics and their applications etc. View Website

KIIT team put up a spirited performance to finish runners up in the Vivekananda Memorial Inter Technical Institute Cricket Tournament organised by NIT Jamshedpur, in Jamshedpur recently. The team defeated Asansol Engineering College (AEC) by a comfortable margin of 46 runs in the semifinal encounter. Sujit Pradhan, a member of KIIT Squad, was declared the Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.

The team also annexed the Best Batsman, Best Bowler and Best Partnership of the Series trophies. While Amiya Samal was adjudged as the Best Batsman for scoring 166 runs, Captain of the Team, Manoj Kumar Sahoo bagged the Best Bowler for taking 11 wickets. Swetaraj Samal and Amiya Samal got Best Partnership of the Tournament award for their stand of 129 runs. Earlier in quarterfinal, Amiya Samal of KIIT squad was adjudged the Man of the Match. The team was also declared the Best Disciplined Team of the tournament.

Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT University congratulated the Team for its excellent performance and wished them success in their future outings. All these have been possible for the tireless effort of the team coach, Rashmita Mohanty.

Apart from KIIT and AEC, NIT Jamshedpur, NIT Rourkela, NIT Patana, XLRI Jamshedpur, MGM Jamesdhpur and RVS Engineering College, Jamshedpur participated in the tournament.

The first Annual Cultural fest of School of Technology of KIIT University, Kaizen 2007, kicked off in its campus on 19th February. It was inaugurated by Mr. Santosh Kumar Mohapatra, IAS, CEO, Paradeep Port Corporation, in the presence of Shre K.Raghuramaiah, IRTS, Chairmain, Paradeep Port, Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta, Vice Chancellor, Prof. S. C. De Sarkar, and Registrar, Dr. R. N. Ray.

The two-day cultural fest will mark events such as cartooning, quiz, antakshari and fashion parade. It will also feature live performance by Indian Idol alumni Rahul Vaidya and Prajakta on Tuesday.
Speaking to the students, Mr. Mahapatra pointed out that literal meaning of Kaizen is 'change for the better' and hoped that the students will work in true spirit of this term. He lauded the creativity of the students of KIIT both in academic and extra curricular fields.

Mr. Raghuramaiah said that KIIT is the 'IIT of Odisha' and the state never feels the absence of an IIT due to the presence of KIIT. Parsing the students' recent achievements in IITs, he thanked its Chancellor, Dr.A. Samanta for giving the state a centre of excellence like KIIT. Pradeep port is the best practical training center for engineers of electrical, mechanical and civil branches and the students of the KIIT in these streams would get opportunity there, he informed.

Dr. A. Samanta outlined the achievements of the students of KIIT University in academics, sports and cultural activities. He told that a festival like Kaizen would create confidence level in the minds of the youth.

Mr. Baraha Kumar Mohanty, Director of Doordarshan will be the chief guest in the valedictory of the function.

The first Techfest of School of Technology of KIIT University Kritansh 2007 kicked off in its campus on Friday. It was inaugurated by Mr Soung Sik Cho, CMD, POSCO India Pvt. Ltd. in the presence of Mr. Shanker Iyer, Head (Operations), Asia Pacific. Redhat, Mr. Subramanyan Ananthanarayanan, General Manager, Wipro Technologies, Er. Ajit Mohapatra, CMD, Kalinga Engineering Ltd. (Kalinga House), Fashion Designer and Social Activist, Ramola Bachan and Chancellor, KIIT University, Dr. A. Samanta.

Hard work and perseverance are the secrets of success in every field, including corporate and education, Mr. Cho told students after inaugurating the Techfest. Chief Speaker at the function Mr. Ajit Mohapatra said that impacts of liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation have reached India in the world of business. At present the country is utilizing only 3 percent of its own knowledge, while imports remaining 97 percent from outside, he observed. He advised the students to be bold and sound in technical knowledge to meet the future challenges before the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Subramanyan Ananthanarayanan informed that Wipro has recruited a number of students from KIIT within the last two years and all the students are intelligent and hard working. Mr. Shanker Iyer lauded Dr. A. Samanta's efforts for giving the state of Odisha a centre of excellence like KIIT.

Earlier, Dr. A. Samanta outlined the achievements of the students of KIIT University in academics, sports and cultural activities. He expressed confidence that Kritansh will emerge as an important youth festival in the country. Registar, Dr. R. N. Ray proposed the vote of thanks.

About 274 students from leading technical institutions from across the country such as NITs, IITs, XIMBs and others participated in Kritansh 2007. The Techfest is marked by marquee events like Codiac (The Coding Contest), Anveshan (The Paper presentation), Blitizkrieg (The Weapon building Contest), Line Tracer (A Robotic Events), The Photography Contest and Corporate Cazers (The Mock stock Exchange Game).

They have got wit, great looks, glamour and charm; they are the icons and divas of Tinsel World. But, perhaps, what you didn't know is that they have a lion's heart too. Seven Bollywood stars and two humour artistes have given a surprise gift to the tribal students of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, a sister concern of KIIT, on the eve of Christmas and New Year.

The visiting artistes, including Mr. Chunky Pandey, Ms. Riya Sen, Ms. Tanushree Dutta, Ms. Yukta Mookhey, Ms. Kim Sharma, Mr. Jimmy Shergil, Ms. Aarushi Ahluwalia, Mr. Gaurav Sharma and Mr. Navin Pravakar, were in touch with Founder Secretary of KISS & KIIT, Dr. A. Samanta for the last six months to finalise this programme.

While the pop icons enthralled the audience, mainly tribal children, for about three hours with their performance, Mr. Gaurav Sharma and Mr. Navin Pravakar, humour maestros of Shekhar Suman's The Great Indian Laughter Challenge fame, had them rolling with laughter with their rib ticking antics. Dr. A. Samanta thanked the Good Samaritans and said that the students will remember them forever for this wonderful Christmas gift.

The colourful evening was attended by 5000 people including students of KISS as well as all other wings of KIIT, staff members of KIIT and their families and general public.

The Third International Conference on Distributed Computing and Internet Technology 2006 (ICDCIT '06) was inaugurated by His Excellency the Governor of Odisha, Shri Rameshwar Thakur at KIIT campus on 20th December 2006. ICDCIT, organised by KIIT annually, is a mega academic event, which provides a platform for interaction among researchers and academicians from all over the world working in the field of computer science and information technology.

"Such conferences provide a platform for the local communities to exchange ideas with their international peers", His Excellency Shri Rameshwar Thakur said at the inaugural function. He appreciated the conference objective of providing an international forum for the exchange of ideas among researchers working in the area of information technology. Congratulating KIIT for organising the conference, he lauded the institute's initiative in taking up the challenge of preparing students from tribal communities to face the world, while providing a diverse range of opportunities to the students of the university. He hoped that the conference will also come up with solutions for the underprivileged. His Excellency Shri Rameshwar Thakur also released the ICDCIT 2006 proceedings.

Stating that the conference has brought prestige to the state, Hon'ble Minister of Energy, Information Technology and Culture, Shri S. N. Patro informed the government's initiative to implement state wide area network and Knowledge Centre to ensure knowledge connectivity upto village level.

Earlier, Dr. A. Samanta, Chancellor, KIIT-DU, welcomed the delegates and expressed hope that the conference will bring out several areas for collaborative action.

In his presidential address Prof R. K. Ghosh of IIT Kanpur, also regarded as the technical architect of ICDCIT, observed that the conference has grown immensely during last three year and termed it as a gift to the people of Odisha. Introducing the conference, Prof Hrushikesha Mohanty of University of Hyderabad said that this year's conference received 200 papers. Stringent measures are in place to select the papers and only 16 % have made it to the proceedings, which is published by Springer, Germany, he informed.

This year's ICDCIT will discuss the reaserch activities centered around three themes, namely, network centric, program centric and data centric. Experts from different parts of the globe, including Canada, China, Korea, Poland, Spain, UK, Taiwan, Turkey and USA, are attending the three-day conference to deliberate on the recent research activities in the three thematic areas. ICDCIT 2006 is highlighted by sponsorship from leading IT companies like Lenovo, TCS and Cognizant Technology Solutions. The conference has come to receive high recognition in academic community in the field of information technology. The first edition of the ICDCIT in 2004 was attended by more than 100 professors, scientist, students and researchers from all over the globe.

Prof. H. P. Sinha, Director, School of Technology of KIIT-DU proposed the vote of thanks.