Interviewtimes 
The monumental legacy of Prof. Achyuta Samanta—a beacon of hope, a harbinger of change- lies in the heart of Odisha. His story resonates as a saga of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to societal transformation. Born into modest means in the quaint village of Kalarabanka, his life took an unforeseen turn at the tender age of four when fate snatched his father away, leaving him amid the harsh throes of poverty alongside his widowed mother and seven siblings.
Yet, adversity fueled his resolve, propelling him to pursue education against insurmountable odds. Armed with an M.Sc. in Chemistry from Utkal University, his journey commenced as a lecturer. However, destiny had grander designs for this visionary mind.
At 25, armed with a mere Rs 5000 and a reservoir of determination, Prof. Samanta embarked on a transformative odyssey. He birthed KIIT (Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology) and KISS (Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences) in two rented abodes. Today, these institutions stand tall, representing an oasis of quality education and holistic development.
KIIT has burgeoned into a coveted hub of learning, attracting 40,000 students from 65 nations. Its acclaimed reputation in professional education reverberates globally, boasting an array of national and international accolades. Meanwhile, KISS stands as a sanctuary for 80,000 tribal children, offering education, healthcare, and vocational training, all free of cost in a nurturing residential setup.
Yet, Prof. Samanta’s vision extends beyond academia. He carved the path for Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Dental Sciences, and Nursing Sciences, coupled with cutting-edge healthcare facilities, including a 2,600-bedded hospital and specialized care centres. His imprint on societal upliftment transcends conventional boundaries, culminating in the inception of Asia’s first smart village—Kalarabanka Smart Village—a model of sustainable, solar-powered living.
However, his contributions extend far beyond bricks and mortar. Prof. Samanta’s multifaceted engagements span art, culture, literature, film, media, and spirituality, fostering national integration and championing humanitarian causes. His passion for sports has nurtured Olympians, catalyzed sports infrastructure development, and promoted athletes, fostering physical fitness and national unity.
His journey is adorned with over 50 international and 200 state awards, including the prestigious ISA Award for Service to Humanity and the ‘Best Worker’ Award from the Republic of Mongolia. With a staggering 55 Honorary Doctorates, he stands as a testament to the embodiment of dedication and perseverance.
Prof. Achyuta Samanta’s life saga embodies the triumph of the human spirit, a narrative of hard work, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to societal betterment. As he strides into the future, his mission remains resolute—to continue shaping destinies, to illuminate paths, and to be the driving force of transformation in an ever-evolving world.
