51st Foundation Day of Orissa Association for the Blind celebrated in grand manner
Bhubaneswar: The closing ceremony of the Golden Jubilee Year and the 51st Foundation Day celebration of Orissa Association for the Blind (OAB) was held in Bhubaneswar. In a remarkable gathering that celebrated compassion and social responsibility, Dr.Anuradha Mohapatra was felicitated for her tireless work in providing healthcare to persons with disabilities.
Organized by the OAB in collaboration with WE4YOU Charitable Trust, the event was held in Bhubaneswar.
It witnessed participation from distinguished dignitaries and changemakers. Dr.Mohapatra, a practicing doctor and dedicated volunteer, has been conducting self-funded health camps for visually impaired individuals and other Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across Odisha since 2022.
Her work, supported by fellow doctors and institutions like the ONGC Foundation, has created a lasting impact in underserved communities.
Despite her professional stature, she humbly identifies as a volunteer, driven by the belief: "If I can bring health to even one person with a disability, my life’s mission is fulfilled." The event was graced by an esteemed panel of guests, led by Surama Padhi, Speaker, Odisha Legislative Assembly as the chief guest. Sulata Deo, MP, Rajya Sabha, Sulochana Das, Mayor, Bhubaneswar, Dr.Justice B.R.Sarangi, Member, National Human Rights Commission, Mahendra Mallik (IAS), Retired, Central Zone, Abanikanta Sahoo, Chairperson, Odisha Food Commission, Gargee Dutta, National Programme Manager, Vision Aid, Suraj K.Raj, CMD, Raj Group of Industries and Dr.Amlan Jyoti Mohanty, Chairman, HHT, Bhubaneswar. Sannyas Kumar Behera, Deputy Secretary, SSEPD Department was the chief speaker. The programme was presided over by Maheswar Rout, President of OAB, and Prasanta Kumar Dash, General Secretary, OAB Bhubaneswar. One of the most notable highlights was the address by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce & Transport Department.
She lauded the efforts of OAB and Sannyas Behera, a visually impaired OAS officer, calling their work a benchmark in inclusive governance.
She also extended her commitment to supporting future initiatives promoting accessibility and empowerment for PwDs. The event not only honoured a passionate changemaker but also spotlighted a growing movement of collaboration between civil society, professionals, and government leaders to make Odisha a more inclusive state.
