Achyuta Samanta, educationist and founder of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) and Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), was awarded the Pride of India Award on Sunday.
“The institute that began on a modest scale to educate the poorest of the poor tribal children and youth in Odisha and the neighbouring States is now home to over 25,000,” Mr. Achyuta said in his acceptance speech. “Our students have secured cent percent results in Class 10 and 12 examinations. They have carved their own paths and are doing well in life,” he said.
“Achyuta is the richest man today, not in terms of money but with the countless number of blessings he has received from the oppressed tribal families. He is truly the pride of India,” said Rajendra Ratnoo, managing director of Poompuhar Shipping Corporation.
V.G. Santhosham, Chairman, VGP Group of Companies, and Shakeel Akhtar, ADGP, Chairman and Managing Director Tamil Nadu Police Housing Corporation, were present at the award function organised by Youthink Foundation.
His institute educates thousands of tribal youth and children in Odisha and other States
