THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, AUGUST 16, 2026
“Now, we have to
attain freedom from poverty, freedom from illiteracy, and freedom through
education,” said eminent Kannada journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Kannada
daily Vishwavani, Vishweshwar Bhat, as KIIT Deemed to be University (KIIT-DU)
and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) celebrated the 80th
Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm on Saturday.
Addressing the Independence Day gathering at KISS as the
chief guest after hoisting the National Flag, Bhat called upon students to view
freedom not merely as a historic achievement but as a continuing national
mission. Emphasising the transformative power of education, he urged the young
generation to contribute towards eliminating poverty and illiteracy and
building a stronger India.
Bhat also lauded the vision and dedication of Dr. Achyuta
Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, saying, “I always remember Dr. Samanta for
his great dedication and inspiration. He has inspired generations and
generations to come. Your future is in the best hands, very safe hands, and you
are receiving the best care.”
Addressing the students, Dr. Samanta said their progress was
central to the progress of the nation. “Until you progress, we will not feel
happy or satisfied. The nation will progress when you progress. You will have
an important role to play in building the India that is going to become a
developed nation,” he said. He noted that KISS has been functioning
successfully for the past 35 years and assured that sustained efforts would
continue to make the institution even better.
The celebration at KISS was attended by KISS Secretary R. N.
Dash, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raju K. D., Registrar Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty,
Senior DG Dr. Debashish Bandyopadhyay and KISS University Registrar Dr.
Prashant Routray, among others.
The spirit of Independence Day resonated across the KIIT campus as well. KIIT Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh hoisted the National Flag, while at KIMS, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. C. B. K. Mohanty performed the flag-hoisting ceremony. At KIIT International School, Principal Dr. Sanjay Suar hoisted the National Flag, while KIIT Public School Principal Dilip Kumar Tripathy led the celebrations at the school.
The celebrations across the institutions culminated in an impressive student parade, followed by a colourful cultural programme that reflected the nation's rich heritage, diversity and patriotic spirit. The observances underscored the shared commitment of KIIT and KISS to nurturing educated, empowered and responsible young citizens who can play a decisive role in shaping India's journey towards becoming a developed nation.
