Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Chapter of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication Alumni Association (IIMCAA) hosted a vibrant alumni meet that strengthened bonds among IIMC graduates while honouring outstanding public service contributions.
The gathering brought together members of the growing IIMC fraternity in Odisha to celebrate professional camaraderie, collaboration, and their shared dedication to media excellence and social causes.
Honour for ‘Pad Woman of Odisha’
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the IIMCAA Award for Public Service to Ankita Sahoo, popularly known as the “Pad Woman of Odisha.” An alumna of the 2012–13 Odia Journalism batch, Sahoo was recognised for her nearly 13 years of dedicated efforts to promote menstrual hygiene and break associated taboos across the state.
While accepting the award, Ankita Sahoo emphasised the need for greater male involvement in menstrual hygiene discussions. She noted that meaningful social change requires equal participation from both men and women in awareness drives and community initiatives.
Two silver jubilee alumni, Manaswini Mishra and Biswajit Sahoo, were also felicitated during the meet.
Fostering Connections and Future Plans
The Odisha Chapter has been actively working to nurture mentorship, collaboration, and collective progress among alumni. The meet provided a platform for participants to reconnect, exchange ideas on emerging trends in media and communication, and explore ways to give back to society.
Prof. Dr. Anand Pradhan, Regional Director of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal, addressed the gathering, saying, “IIMC’s strength lies in its people. The alumni meet is a reminder of how our graduates carry forward the institute’s values into diverse fields while staying connected to their roots and to each other.” He also highlighted new academic initiatives, including the introduction of MA programmes in New Media Communications and Strategic Communication, in addition to the institute’s flagship PG Diploma courses.
He further announced plans for an incubation centre open to both current students and alumni interested in innovation and startups.
IIMCAA President Sandeep Sethi underscored the value of such gatherings in building a supportive and inspiring community.
