NIT Rourkela Honoured at Odisha Environment Congress

Rourkela, Nov 6: The 17th Odisha Environment Congress (OEC-2026) concluded at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela with a strong call for technology-driven environmental solutions, collaborative action and sustainable development.

The three-day event, organised on the theme “Environment and Technology,” brought together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and environmental practitioners to deliberate on pressing ecological challenges and pathways towards a greener future.

Call for Collective Action

Addressing the valedictory session as Chief Guest, P. K. Jena, former Chief Secretary of Odisha, stressed the importance of technological innovation, interdisciplinary research and active stakeholder participation in building climate-resilient societies. He highlighted the need for evidence-based environmental governance and collective responsibility in addressing environmental concerns.

Distinguished guest and noted writer Das Benhur inspired participants, particularly students and young researchers, through anecdotes emphasising environmental conservation and individual responsibility towards nature.

Prestigious Recognition

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the S. B. Mishra Green Corporate Award to NIT Rourkela in recognition of its sustained efforts towards environmental sustainability and the development of an eco-friendly campus.

The award was presented to Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela, along with Prof. Himanshu Bhushan Sahu on behalf of the institute.

In his address, Prof. Rao underscored the importance of individual commitment to environmental protection. Urging students to adopt responsible practices such as reducing plastic waste and minimising food wastage, he said meaningful environmental change begins with small actions at the individual level.

Encouraging Young Innovators

The Congress also recognised emerging environmental innovators through the GreenThon initiative. Three teams from NIT Rourkela and Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Chhend, received Rs50,000 each from the Socratus Foundation along with one year of mentorship support from NIT Rourkela to help convert their ideas into practical environmental solutions.

Several other awards, including the Prof. Radhamohan Green Ambassador Award, Dr. Ajay Kumar Parida Young Scientist Award and Abasar Beuria Nature Conservation Award, were presented for contributions to environmental protection and scientific research.
Also Read: NIT Rourkela Scientists Develop Lead-Free Light-Emitting Material for Safer Technologies

Focus on Sustainability

Presenting an overview of the Congress, Prof. S. K. Palita highlighted discussions on climate change, pollution control, renewable energy, sustainable mining, biodiversity conservation and digital technologies for environmental monitoring.

The Congress witnessed participation from 13 technical institutions, 13 universities, 11 government organisations and undertakings, 10 NGOs and two international research organisations. Prof. Jagneswar Dandapat announced that the 18th Odisha Environment Congress will be hosted by Utkal University next year.