Bhubaneswar, May 2: The Odisha Chapter of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication Alumni Association (IIMCAA) recently hosted its alumni meet, uniting members of the ever-expanding IIMC fraternity in the state.

The gathering celebrated camaraderie, professional collaboration, and the alumni’s shared commitment to society and the media profession.

A 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 has dedicated nearly 13 years to advancing menstrual hygiene awareness and breaking taboos surrounding menstruation. In her acceptance speech, she emphasized the importance of involving men in conversations about menstrual health, noting that true social change requires equal participation from both genders.

The meet also felicitated silver jubilee students Manaswini Mishra and Biswajit Sahoo, recognizing their contributions and long-standing association with the institution.

Speaking at the event, Anand Pradhan, Regional Director of IIMC Dhenkanal, highlighted the institute’s strength in its people. He underscored how alumni embody IIMC’s values across diverse fields while remaining connected to their roots. He also announced new academic initiatives, including MA programmes in New Media Communications and Strategic Communication, alongside the flagship PG Diploma courses. Plans for an incubation centre — open to both students and alumni — were also revealed, aimed at fostering innovation and startups.

Sandeep Sethi, President of IIMCAA, reiterated the importance of alumni meets in nurturing a supportive community that inspires and uplifts one another.

The event was graced by several distinguished personalities, including veteran journalist Kasturi Ray, Bibhudatta Mohapatra, Biraj Swain, and award-winning journalist Sarada Lahangir, along with Vice Presidents Sangita Agarwal and Byomakesh Biswal.

Odisha today stands as the second-largest hub of IIMC alumni in India, with members working across media, communication, governance, academia, and allied sectors. The Odisha Chapter continues to strengthen bonds of fraternity, foster mentorship, and contribute meaningfully to society, weaving together generations of communicators who carry forward the institute’s legacy.