The Orissa Environmental Society (OES) has officially declared its prestigious annual awards to honour distinguished individuals who have made exemplary contributions to environmental protection, conservation, and eco-journalism across the state.
The announcement was made through a joint press release issued by OES working president Dr Jayakrushna Panigrahi and secretary Er. Manoranjan Mishra.
The awards will be formally presented during the grand celebration of the Society’s 45th Foundation Day on October 25. The decisions were finalised during an executive committee meeting presided over by OES President Dr Sundara Narayana Patro.
Roll of Honour: This Year’s Distinguished Awardees
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Lifetime Contribution Award: Dr Seba Mohapatra, former Director of Health Services, Odisha, in recognition of her comprehensive and lifelong dedication to society and environmental welfare.
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Excellence in Environmental Reporting Award: Ms Tanaya Patnaik, Editor of Sambad and Kanak News, for her impactful journalism highlighting critical ecological and environmental issues.
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Excellence in Environment Award: Prof. Hemant Kumar Patra, former Emeritus Professor of Botany at Utkal University, for his extensive academic and practical contributions.
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Environment and Science Communication Award: Dr Ashutosh Debata, former Director of the Centre for Environmental Studies (Bhubaneswar) and Principal of Stewart Science College (Cuttack), for advancing scientific awareness.
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Nature Conservation Award: Bijay Kumar Jena, a dedicated grassroots plantation activist known for his relentless green initiatives.
In addition to these top honours, several individuals will be conferred with the titles of ‘OES Fellow’ and ‘OES Patron’, while five senior life members of the organisation will receive special felicitations for their enduring dedication.
Event Highlights and Dignitaries
The upcoming foundation day celebration promises a stellar lineup of intellectual and literary figures:
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Chief Guest: Tathagata Satpathy, former Lok Sabha MP and Editor of Dharitri and Orissa Post.
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Guest of Honour: Tanaya Patnaik, Editor of Sambad.
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Keynote Speaker: Eminent writer Dash Benhur, who will deliver the prestigious ‘Prasanna Kumar Dash Memorial Lecture’.
As preparations wrap up, the OES continues to champion ecological awareness, bringing together scientists, journalists, activists, and policymakers to honour those protecting Odisha’s natural heritage.
