Author: chandan giri

The Department of Community Medicine under the able leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Sonali Kar and a team led by Dr. Krishna Mishra, Associate Professor and In-charge of immunization clinic, KIMS along with the immunization faculty supervisor, Prof. (Dr.) S. Suneeti Kanyari successfully conducted The National Pulse Polio Immunization Programme on 28^th June at PBMH, KIMS.

To ensure maximum beneficiary foot falls, banners in English and local language were displayed at high patient and community activity points. Awareness videos on Pulse Polio Immunization in official and local languages were continuously played on screens at various transit points of the Hospital, Pediatric and Obstetric wards. All the vaccines had been procured from the government and the reporting was done as per standards. Those who had missed the campaign were given the service on the next day as per standards. Two dedicated immunization booths were established at the KIMS Immunization Clinic to facilitate the smooth administration of polio drops to eligible beneficiaries (under 5 children). The programme was graced by the presence of Medical Superintendent, Dr. Manas Ranjan Behera and other faculties of the department. All possible logistics and co-operation was provided by the management of KIMS and PBMH.

Current interns’ batch was used in operational tidiness of the programme, which was to the satisfaction of all.

The booth witnessed an impressive turnout, with a total of 373 beneficiaries on the first day. The programme also received appreciation from a inspecting delegation team from the World Health Organization (WHO) Odisha branch for the continued commendable efforts in polio campaigns since the last 2 years. They complimented the community friendly arrangements, efficient teamwork, and the impressive beneficiary turnout.

RHTC Kalarabanka Pulse Polio Immunization Programme:

The Pulse Polio Immunization Programme was also successfully implemented at the Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC), Kalarabanka under Community Medicine Department  by establishing immunization booths and administering oral polio vaccine (OPV) to all eligible children below five years of age at the AWC and through outreach booth. The booth witnessed a turnout of 120 beneficiaries. Awareness activities, including health education and community mobilization, were conducted to ensure maximum participation. The programme was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Geeta Chand Acharya (In-Charge RHTC) and Prof. (Dr.) Sai Chandan Das (Supervisor In-Charge) and healthcare staff targeting good immunization coverage. 

The successful conduct of the National Pulse Polio Immunization Programme at KIMS reflects the institution’s continued commitment to safeguarding children against poliomyelitis and promoting National and state led public health initiatives under participatory and collaborative approach.

Dr. Varsha. M. Totadri, Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatric Surgery, KIMS became the first ever recipient in India of the Pradeep Puli Reddy Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Centre Scholarship in Paediatric Urology, in association with Indian Association of Paediatric Surgeons.

As the first ever recipient and selected candidate, she represented her department, hospital, state and organization in CCHMC, Ohio for an observer-ship in Paediatric Urology under the tutelage of Dr. Pramod Reddy- one of the most eminent Paediatric Urologists in the world. CCHMC is a premiere institute catering to paediatric care and in the forefront of Paediatric super specialized surgical care.

Gaining this exposure, she has not only created a continuum of learning, but also extended the collaboration for future Paediatric Surgeons and Urologists alike. She had an extensive clinical and research programme with the opportunity to work with some of the most prominent surgeons in the field of Paediatric Urology, Paediatric MAS and Paediatric Urological Robotic surgery.

The institute is extremely proud of this once in a lifetime achievement, being the first of its kind in India for this scholarship. KIMS fraternity wishes her all the best for her future endeavours to spread her wings and knowledge alike. Her feat is truly a stepping stone of success for the Department of Paediatric Surgery, as well as KIMS. 

Dr. Nirmal K Mohakud, Professor of Pediatrics at KIMS and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Integrated Medicine and Research, was the Key Speaker at the release of the new issue of the Odisha Medical Journal (OMJ).

The event, organized by IMA Odisha at IMA House, Cuttack, saw participation of over 100 doctors across various branches, including past OMJ editors and the current IMA President and Secretary

Dr. Mohakud delivered a faculty development lecture on “How to Write Methods, Results, Discussion & Conclusion,” equipping researchers with effective paper-writing techniques for publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals. The workshop fostered collaborative academic growth, showcasing KIMS and KIIT’s leadership in advancing medical research in Odisha.

ORIGIN- The Undergraduate Medical Research Society of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) successfully conducted its inaugural induction ceremony, marking the beginning of an exciting journey towards fostering research culture among undergraduate medical students.

The event commenced in the presence of principal, AVM Prof. (Dr.) R. C. Das; associate Dean of research; Prof. (Dr.) Shubhransu Patro, member secretary, Prof. (Dr.) Ipsa Mohapatra, senior faculty members; and faculty leads of the society whose encouragement and support set an inspiring tone for the society’s future endeavors.

A formal introduction of the faculty panel, senior members, core committee, and student members followed, highlighting the collaborative team that will drive ORIGIN’s vision of promoting research excellence and academic curiosity.

Dr. Vikas Medhi addressed the gathering with his insightful words, motivating students to embrace research as an integral part of their medical careers.

The induction was followed by an engaging introductory session on medical research delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Sakir Ahmed, Senior Consultant, Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology. His session provided students with a foundational understanding of research methodology and emphasized the importance of scientific inquiry in advancing healthcare.

As ORIGIN embarks on its journey, KIMS looks forward to nurturing young researchers, encouraging innovation, and creating opportunities for meaningful academic growth.

The Good Clinical Practice (GCP)–Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) Training Programme was successfully conducted on 19^th June 2026 at Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Bhubaneswar, under the aegis of the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC), KIMS. It was attended by more than two hundred faculty members, IEC members and postgraduates of KIMS.

The programme was conceptualized and envisioned by Dean and Principal of KIMS Prof. (Dr.) R C Das and successfully conducted by Prof. (Dr.) Alpana Mishra, Member Secretary, IEC, KIMS, along with Dr. Vartika, the IEC team and the postgraduates of community medicine. The programme was held with an objective to enhance researchers’ understanding of ethical clinical research, good laboratory practices, and regulatory requirements.

The inaugural session was graced by the Dean & Principal , KIMS,  Prof(Dr.) R C Das ; Prof. (Dr.) Lalatendu Mohanty, Vice Principal, KIMS, and Prof. (Dr.) Subhranshu Patra, Associate Dean of Research, KIMS. Faculty members, postgraduate students, and IEC members actively participated in the programme.

The scientific sessions were led by eminent experts. Prof. Bikash Medhi, PGIMER, Chandigarh, delivered sessions on research question formulation, critical thinking, Good Clinical Practice principles, and ethical conduct of clinical trials. He emphasised the importance of identifying research gaps, framing meaningful objectives, maintaining quality assurance, and ensuring participant safety through adherence to GCP guidelines.

Dr. Jaya Singh Kshatri, Scientist D, ICMR, Bhubaneswar, conducted an interactive session on biostatistics and sample size estimation. He highlighted key statistical concepts, data management, the importance of robust statistical planning, and its importance in the ethical conduct of research.

Prof. Medhi discussed the ICMR Guidelines for Biomedical and Health Research, focusing on ethical principles such as autonomy, beneficence, non-malfeasance, and justice. 

The concluding session covered Serious Adverse Event (SAE) reporting, compensation in clinical trials, and the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019, emphasizing regulatory compliance and participant protection.

The programme concluded with feedback from faculties and a vote of thanks by member secretary IEC. It was a highly enriching academic exercise. It will significantly strengthen participants’ knowledge of ethical research practices, clinical trial conduct, and regulatory requirements, reinforcing KIMS’s commitment to high-quality and ethically conducted biomedical research.

The Clinical Trial Team of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Bhubaneswar, has been awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research, Government of India, and Director General, ICMR, for its outstanding contribution to a landmark Phase III indigenous dengue vaccine clinical trial.

The Certificate of Appreciation was rewarded at ICMR Headquarters, New Delhi, in recognition of the team’s exemplary contribution to the successful conduct of the multi-centric study evaluating the efficacy, immunogenicity, and safety of DengiAll, a live attenuated tetravalent dengue vaccine developed by Panacea Biotec Limited to the team lead Prof. (Dr.) Sonali Kar, Head, Department of Community Medicine. The Co-Investigators comprised of Dr. P. C. Samantaray, Consultant, Clinical Epidemiological Unit (CEU); Prof. (Dr.) Lalatendu Mohanty, Department of Medicine; Prof. (Dr.) Dipty Pattnaik, Department of Microbiology; Prof. (Dr.) Sourav Patra, Central Laboratory; and Dr. Raj Patro, Molecular Laboratory, KIMS. The Sub-Investigator team comprised Dr. Angana Ray (Senior Resident), Dr. Gouri Kumar Rath, Dr. Akula Shalem Raja, and Dr. Ritwik Raj (postgraduates), Department of Community Medicine, KIMS.

The trial was initiated at KIMS in August 2024 as part of a nationwide multicentric study conducted across 21 premier sites in India, including AIIMS, state level institutions and ICMR-affiliated centres. KIMS emerged as one of the major recruiting centres, successfully enrolling 673 participants. The trial required meticulous participant recruitment, stringent long-term follow-up, regular clinical and laboratory assessments, and rigorous multi-level monitoring to ensure compliance with study protocols, participant safety, data quality, and regulatory standards.

The Certificate of Appreciation acknowledges the team’s commitment to conducting the trial in accordance with national standards, ensuring strict adherence to study protocols, ethical guidelines, participant safety requirements, data quality measures, and regulatory compliance throughout the conduct of the study. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of the investigators, laboratory teams, postgraduate trainees, and field staff in maintaining the highest standards of clinical research. The successful execution of this nationally significant study underscores the institution’s capability in conducting high-quality clinical trials and contributing to the development of innovative public health interventions.

Dr. Sonali Kar appointed to AIIMS Kalyani Institutional Ethics Committee as Epidemiologist

In another significant professional achievement, Prof. (Dr.) Sonali Kar, Head, Department of Community Medicine has been appointed to the position of Epidemiologist for the reconstituted Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) of AIIMS, Kalyani for a period of 5 years. It is expected that some collaborative efforts may be initiated during the period of Dr. Kar’s tenure.

Dr. Sai Chandan Das, Professor, and Dr. Krishna Mishra, Associate Professor, from the Department of Community Medicine, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Bhubaneswar, were invited as Resource Persons in the State Biomedical Waste Management (BMWM) Training Programme organised by the Directorate of Public Health, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Odisha.

Conducted under the State Biomedical Waste Management Cell, the programme aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals from various districts of Odisha in the safe handling and disposal of biomedical waste. The sessions covered key components of BMWM, including segregation, collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal practices.

Dr. Sai Chandan delivered expert sessions from 23^rd to 28^th April and on 5^th and 6^th May 2026, while Dr. Krishna conducted sessions from 28^th to 30^th May 2026. The interactive training sessions facilitated meaningful discussions and strengthened healthcare workers’ capacity to adopt environmentally responsible and compliant waste management practices within their institutions.

This highlights the dedication of KIMS faculty towards capacity building, environmental stewardship, and the promotion of quality healthcare practices. Their involvement further reflects the institution’s commitment to supporting state-level initiatives to improve healthcare waste management and safeguard public health.

Dr. Arghya Pradhan, Addl. Director of the State Biomedical Waste Management Cell, Directorate of Public Health, Government of Odisha, appreciated the contributions of Dr. Sai Chandan Das and Dr. Krishna Mishra.

Shri Narinder Kumar Mehra, Advisor, R&D, KIMS received the Prof. P. N. Chhuttani Recognition of Academic Excellence (RAE) award on the 66^th Foundation Day of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) held in New Delhi .

The award named after the doyen of Medicine in India, Prof. Chhuttani, who was the first and the longest serving Director of the Post- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Chandigarh, was given by Dr. P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India.

The RAE award was given in recognition of lifelong scientific contributions in the field of host immunity influencing expression of Infectious Diseases, in particular Leprosy, Tuberculosis and HIV.

The event was well attended by the researchers and academicians, and it generated very useful discussions including the possible impact of AI on clinical research.

A major international recognition received by Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Bhubaneswar, cardiac surgeon Dr. Satyajit Samal in the United States is expected to significantly strengthen the institute’s plans for launching advanced heart transplantation services, potentially making KIMS the first hospital in eastern India to conduct heart transplants in the near future.

Dr. Samal, Consultant in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CTVS) at KIMS, was awarded the prestigious 2026 Mussallem Congenital Heart Diseases (CHD) Alliance Travel Grant by the renowned American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) Foundation during the 106th AATS Annual Conference held in Chicago, USA, from May 1 to 5, 2026. The recognition not only honours his contribution to cardiothoracic surgery, but also opens up opportunities for international collaborations, mentorship and advanced training in heart transplantation for KIMS.

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) is regarded as the world’s largest, most advanced and premier association in the field of cardiothoracic surgery. Surgeons from across the globe were selected and recognised by the AATS Foundation for their outstanding contributions to cardiothoracic surgery, research, innovation and academic excellence.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Samal said it was a matter of immense pride that KIMS, Bhubaneswar, was officially recognised by AATS in its global database through his selection and participation. During the conference, he received mentorship in heart transplantation and other advanced cardiothoracic surgical procedures from some of the world’s leading cardiac surgeons. He was also interviewed and offered opportunities for advanced training in heart transplantation in the United States.

According to Dr. Samal, the exposure and collaborations developed through the AATS platform are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening advanced cardiac care services at KIMS and accelerating preparations for initiating a comprehensive heart transplant programme at the institute.

Dr. Samal is the first cardiothoracic surgeon from Odisha to receive this prestigious recognition from the AATS Foundation.

Founder of KIIT, KISS and KIMS, Prof. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, congratulated Dr. Samal on the achievement and said the honour further reinforces KIMS’ growing reputation for advanced healthcare, clinical excellence and specialised cardiac care.

Earlier this year, in February 2026, Dr. Samal was also selected and honoured by the AATS Foundation during IACTSCON 2026 in Mumbai under the Global Academic Exchange Program conducted jointly by AATS and the Indian Association of Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgeons (IACTS). The programme provided him advanced exposure and training opportunities at leading medical institutions in the United States under eminent cardiac surgeons.