Bhubaneswar : Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has been conferred with the prestigious ‘Prakruti Mitra Award 2025–26’ by the Khordha Forest Division in recognition of its exemplary contribution towards environmental conservation, afforestation, and sustainable campus development. The Institute was nominated for the award under the Jatni Block category as part of the Van Mahotsava 2026 celebrations.

The award was received on behalf of the Institute by Shri Bamadev Acharya, Registrar, IIT Bhubaneswar, from Shri Prasanta Kumar Jagadev, Hon’ble MLA, Khordha, in the presence of Shri Manoj Mahapatra, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Khordha.

Also present on the occasion were Shri K. Rabin Kumar Dora, Superintending Engineer, IIT Bhubaneswar, and Shri Kamireddy Visweswara Reddy, Horticulturist, IIT Bhubaneswar, who have played a significant role in the Institute’s green campus initiatives.

IIT Bhubaneswar has consistently demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability through large-scale plantation drives, biodiversity conservation, water resource management, and the development of a vibrant green campus. Spread across nearly 936 acres at the foothills of the historic Barunei Hill, the Institute has nurtured over 50,000 trees, creating a rich ecological habitat that supports diverse flora and fauna while promoting sustainable living practices.

The Khordha Forest Division presents the Prakruti Mitra Award to institutions and organizations that have made outstanding contributions towards environmental protection, afforestation, and the promotion of ecological awareness. The recognition further reinforces IIT Bhubaneswar’s commitment to building a sustainable and environmentally responsible campus for future generations.