Category: Humanitarian Award

Nita M. Ambani, Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, was conferred the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus here on 16^th March, 2026.

The award was presented by Nobel Laureate from Sri Lanka Prof. Mohan Munasinghe in the presence of the Founder of KIIT, KISS and KIMS Dr. Achyuta Samanta. Senior functionaries of the institutions and a large number of students and dignitaries attended the function.

The award recognized Smt Ambani’s outstanding humanitarian initiatives and her significant contributions to social development through education, healthcare, rural transformation, women empowerment and sports promotion through the Reliance Foundation.

In her acceptance speech, Smt. Ambani said that Dr. Samanta has built two modern temples of education — KIIT and KISS. These two institutions are a matter of pride for our country. She said that she feels proud to receive the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award and added that the honour is not hers alone, but belongs to the entire team of Reliance Foundation.

Addressing the 40,000 students of KISS, she said, “I will never forget the love and affection you have given me here.” She further said that it was truly a privilege for her to visit the two remarkable institutions, KIIT and KISS.

She expressed that she was overwhelmed to come to the pious land of Lord Jagannath. She also added that Odisha has a rich culture, traditions and values, and that the people of Odisha share a deep and strong connection with nature.

She said that there is no difference between boys and girls and that whatever boys can do, girls can do as well. Advising the students, she said, “This is just the beginning, not your final goal. You should dream big, and to achieve those dreams, you must work hard with dedication.”

She further advised the students never to leave the path of righteousness. “I see the future of India here in KISS. After seeing the children here, I am confident that the future of India is bright,” she added.

The KISS Humanitarian Award, initiated in 2008 by Dr. Samanta, is the highest honour of KISS, dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of humanitarian work worldwide. The award consists of a citation scroll and a gold-plated trophy.

The trophy symbolizes the golden heart of a humanitarian representing the virtues of purity, kindness, prosperity and hope. It features a pair of hands uplifting a heart textured with shapes resembling waving hands, signifying how dedicated efforts can transform the lives of the underprivileged and make the world a better place.

In his welcome speech, Dr. Samanta said, “Success doesn’t mean achieving things only for yourself; true success is bringing light into the lives of others.” Giving an example of Nita Ambani he said, Great initiatives never go in vain if you try with dedication. He praised Nita for her multi-dimensional social work, for which she is loved and respected by one and all. In this materialistic world, earning love and respect is not easy. However, Mrs. Ambani has earned immense love and respect from people for her noble social and humanitarian work. He thanked Mrs. Ambani for graciously accepting the KISS Humanitarian Award.

Mr. Bill Gates Honoured with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2023 for His Global Philanthropic Endeavours

Bhubaneswar, February 28, 2024: In an illustrious event held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Mr. Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was conferred with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2023. This accolade was in recognition of his extensive philanthropic work globally, particularly in improving healthcare, education, and his efforts to combat climate change through innovative technology, aiming to bridge the gap of inequality.

The award ceremony was marked by the virtual presence of KIIT and KISS’s faculty, students, and alumni, where Mr. Gates engaged in an insightful dialogue about gender equality, sparked by an inquiry from a KISS alumna. This interaction underscored the event’s thematic focus on inclusive and equitable progress.

Prof. Achyuta Samanta, the visionary behind KIIT, KISS, and KIMS, remarked on the occasion, “Presenting the KISS Humanitarian Award to Bill Gates is not just a recognition of his extraordinary efforts but also an affirmation of the award’s eminence. His acceptance redefines the paradigms of humanitarian excellence worldwide. We are profoundly honored to have Mr. Gates among the distinguished laureates of this award.”

In his acceptance discourse, Mr. Gates expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the honour, acknowledging the transformative initiatives of Dr. Samanta and KISS. “I am deeply thankful for this esteemed award, and for the warm reception here. The real accolade belongs to the commendable achievements of your institution,” he noted. Mr. Gates praised Dr. Samanta’s relentless pursuit of empowering indigenous communities through education, emphasizing the significance of civic participation and a community-centric educational model.

Initiated by Prof. Achyuta Samanta in 2008, the KISS Humanitarian Award stands as the pinnacle of honour by KIIT and KISS, celebrating entities and individuals exemplifying humanitarian service. The award features a citation and a gold-plated trophy, symbolizing the purity, kindness, prosperity, and hope inherent in humanitarian deeds. This trophy, showcasing hands lifting a heart, represents the impact of dedicated efforts in transforming the lives of the needy and fostering a better global community.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests such as Minister Counsellor Graham Mayer from the US Embassy in New Delhi, Frank Talluto, Political Officer from Hyderabad, Ananth Sukesh, Political Advisor from the US Embassy New Delhi, and Srimali Kari, Political Specialist from the US Consulate in Hyderabad, among others.

The KISS Humanitarian Award has been previously bestowed upon a diverse array of global leaders and Nobel laureates, underlining its widespread international acclaim and respect. Mr. Gates’s receipt of this prestigious award further solidifies its status as a beacon of humanitarian recognition worldwide.

Her Excellency Rachel Ruto E.G.H Receives Prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2022

Bhubaneswar, Sept 30: The First Lady Kenya, Rachel Ruto, E.G.H., was awarded the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2022 at an event in the KISS campus that was graced by the Odisha Governor Prof Ganeshi Lal. The award recognizes her outstanding dedication to humanitarian efforts and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged and underserved, particularly women, children, and vulnerable communities.

In her acceptance speech, Rachel expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome she received in Bhubaneswar and extended her thanks to the Governor and the Founder of KIIT and KISS Dr. Achyuta Samanta for their hospitality. She emphasized her eagerness to collaborate with institutions like KISS in their shared mission to create a more compassionate and equitable world. The First Lady commended the visionary work of Dr Samanta who has been instrumental in providing free education to over 40,000 underprivileged students.

Mrs. Ruto acknowledged that the award was not just a recognition of her individual efforts but also a tribute to the spirit and resilience of the Kenyan people, especially women. She pledged to continue advocating for women’s well-being, financial inclusion, access to knowledge, and livelihood initiatives through Women Economic Empowerment programs.

The Odisha Governor, in his address, praised the First Lady for her humanitarian efforts and dedication to the betterment of humanity. He commended the work of KISS and its Founder, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, in ensuring that democracy reaches every corner of society.

Dr Samanta, in his speech, greeted the Kenyan First Lady in Swahili and drew parallels between her work and the mission of KISS. He highlighted the significant impact she has made through initiatives like MaMa Doing Good, Women Economic Empowerment, and Environmental and Climate Action. He said both he and the First Lady are united in “purpose and mission” in serving the society even though they are separated by continents, describing her as his sibling, he added.

Among others, the Chancellor of KISS Deemed to be University Satya S. Tripathi; President of KIIT and KISS Saswati Bal; Kenya High Commission in India Willy K. Bett; Vice president of KIIT and KISS Umapada Bose, Secretary R N Das and other senior functionaries from both KIIT and KISS were present on the occasion.

The KISS Humanitarian Award was initiated in 2008 and is conferred annually to recognize and felicitate individuals for their exemplary and distinguished service to humanity across the globe. Notable previous awardees have hailed from five continents and include luminaries such as Madam Edna Bomo Molewa, former premier of the North-western state of South Africa Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Ham-Kee-Sun, President of Hanseo University, Mr. Anerood Jugnauth, President of the Republic of Mauritius, Rt. Hon. Lord Justice Nicholas Addison Phillips, President of the Supreme Court of UK, Lyonchhen Jigmiy Thinley, Prime Minister of Bhutan, Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder FXB International, Switzerland, Ms. Anne Margaret Fagertun Stenhammer, Regional Director of UN Women for South Asia, Ms. Ashley Judd, UNFPA Global Goodwill Ambassador, Nobel Peace Laureate His Holiness Dalai Lama and Prof Muhammad Yunus.

Renowned industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, was honored with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2021 on 22^nd April, 2024. The award ceremony was held at his residence in Mumbai, marking a significant recognition of his commitment to social development and exemplary corporate leadership.

The ceremony was attended by Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran and three-time Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej, among others. The award was presented by the Founder of KIIT and KISS Dr. Achyuta Samanta. Due to health reasons, Tata has been avoiding public appearances, leading to the private arrangement of the ceremony at his home.

Ratan Tata, usually reticent about accepting accolades, agreed to accept this award following a personal request from Dr. Achyuta Samanta, recognizing the importance of the KISS humanitarian honour. The award was announced in 2021, but Tata was unable to receive the award then because of the COVID pandemic.

In his acceptance, Tata expressed his gratitude towards KISS and its founder. “I am extremely happy to receive this honour. This is the most significant moment of my life”, he remarked.

“Ratan Tata is a revered name in India, and he is truly a good person. Being able to honour him today with this award is a privilege for us”, said Samanta. “Ratan Tata’s social work and leadership have been influencing me since my childhood. I have respected and liked him from a young age. My father was an employee of Tata Company. Since then, I have respected and liked Ratan Tata,” he stated. When I was just four years old, my father died in a train accident, he added.

Initiated in 2008 by Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the KISS Humanitarian Award is the highest honour of KIIT and KISS dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of humanitarian work worldwide. Previous recipients of this prestigious award include a diverse group of global leaders, Nobel laureates, and notable figures from various sectors, showcasing the award’s broad international appeal and respect. On the occasion, around 40,000 students of KISS wished Ratan Tata a healthy, long, and disease-free life.

The President of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Dr. Ary S Graça was conferred the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2020 in recognition of his outstanding contribution towards the promotion of the game across the world on 4^th October 2024. The award was given away by the Governor of Odisha Sri  Raghubar Das in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha Sri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo. Although the award was announced in 2020, Dr. Graça was unable to receive it at that time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor, in his speech, admired Dr. Graca’s commitment to promoting volleyball throughout the world and bringing a positive change to society through the game. He said that the KISS Humanitarian Award reflects humanitarian and social values, encouraging individuals working in these fields worldwide to strive for further achievements. Mr Singh Deo, on the other hand, congratulated Dr. Graça for the award and lauded the efforts of Dr. Samanta for instituting the KISS humanitarian award.

During the event, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the Founder of KIIT and KISS and former president of the Volleyball Federation of India, provided insights about Dr. Graça, noting that the 81-year-old Brazilian has served as the FIVB President for over 12 years. In fact, FIVB is the largest sports federation in the world, with 222 member nations. Samanta expressed pride in Dr. Graça receiving the KISS Humanitarian Award, highlighting it as a symbol of recognition for efforts made in humanitarian and social fields globally.

Dr. Graça had always admired Dr. Samanta’s efforts to develop volleyball in the country and came to India for the first time specifically to receive the award. Dr.  Graça said his primary aim through the game is to bring peace and harmony across the world. “My passion is to continue to cherish the values of empowerment, teamwork, and opportunities and serve the world through volleyball”, he added.

Notably, the KISS Humanitarian Award has previously been conferred upon various distinguished global leaders, Nobel laureates, and notable figures across multiple fields, underscoring its international significance and prestige.

His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma Honoured with KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 for His Exceptional Contributions

Bhubaneswar, 25th January: His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma, the esteemed President of the National Transition Council of Guinea, was felicitated with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 in a distinguished ceremony held in Bhubaneswar. The event saw the convergence of notable personalities, including Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, who presented the award to His Excellency amidst the esteemed presence of Saswati Bal, President of KIIT & KISS; Umapada Bose, Vice President; and R. N. Dash, Secretary of KIIT & KISS.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, His Excellency Dr. Kourouma extolled Bhubaneswar, celebrating its ethos of happiness, spirituality, and devotion, and underscored the deep-rooted historical connections between India and Guinea. He lauded the remarkable strides made by KIIT and KISS, applauding Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s unyielding dedication, compassion, and commitment to social upliftment.

His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma Honoured with KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 for His Exceptional Contributions

Bhubaneswar, 25th January: His Excellency Dr. Dansa Kourouma, the esteemed President of the National Transition Council of Guinea, was felicitated with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2019 in a distinguished ceremony held in Bhubaneswar. The event saw the convergence of notable personalities, including Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, who presented the award to His Excellency amidst the esteemed presence of Saswati Bal, President of KIIT & KISS; Umapada Bose, Vice President; and R. N. Dash, Secretary of KIIT & KISS.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, His Excellency Dr. Kourouma extolled Bhubaneswar, celebrating its ethos of happiness, spirituality, and devotion, and underscored the deep-rooted historical connections between India and Guinea. He lauded the remarkable strides made by KIIT and KISS, applauding Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s unyielding dedication, compassion, and commitment to social upliftment.
His Excellency expressed profound gratitude for the accolade, aligning himself with the legacy of esteemed laureates like His Holiness the Dalai Lama. “This award is a testament to our collective endeavour towards societal betterment,” he remarked, acknowledging the honour bestowed upon him.
Further, His Excellency Dr. Kourouma paid homage to Dr. Samanta, perceiving him as a paternal figure epitomizing hope and devotion to truth and faith. He emphasized the transformative power of education, advocating its role as a pivotal instrument in global change, anchored in conviction and faith.
Dr. Samanta, addressing the gathering, reflected on KISS’s ethos of humanism, which fosters care and compassion among its students, resonating with the institution’s foundational values.

The ceremony was graced by dignitaries like Dr. Aminata Thuam, Chargee d’affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Guinea; Fofana Moussa, Chief of Staff of the Guinean Parliament; Michael Pal, Director of the Cultural Forum of the Embassy of Austria; and Sanjeev Juneja, Founder of Divisa Herbal Care. Additionally, Buddhist monks from Thailand and academic luminaries such as Prof. (Dr.) Amareswar Galla, Pro-Chancellor of KISS DU; Prof. Saranjit Singh, VC of KIIT DU; and Prof. Deepak Kumar Behera, VC of KISS DU, were present.

This event not only celebrated His Excellency Dr. Kourouma’s humanitarian achievements but also underscored the enduring legacy and global impact of the KISS Humanitarian Award, furthering its mission of recognizing and honouring transformative contributions to humanity.

Prof. Muhammad Yunus, founder of the Grameen Bank, Bangladesh was conferred with the 11th KISS Humanitarian Award on 11 May 2018.

The KISS Humanitarian Award was instituted in 2008 by the founder of KIIT and KISS Dr Achyuta Samanta to honour and recognise individuals with an exceptionally high contribution to the society in various fields related to social issues.

Prof. Muhammad Yunus in his acceptance speech said: ” This experience at KIIT and KISS took me to Disneyland, things that happen in fairy tales, the kind of discipline I see here is not easy, something happens when you come here.”

Appreciating the efforts of Dr Samanta, he said

” KIIT and KISS started with 10-12 students, not too far in history and now it’s a 75,000 membered strong family. He has a hand of a magician. Only a visitor can see the amazing quality of this land, the one who is here, will not realize it’s quality as much. It distances you from the reality and translating the dream into reality is the future. “

With utmost humility, he said, “Going through this experience, I feel awkward. The most deserving person to get the award is Dr Samanta. I offer the award to him.

He advised, “Imagine the wildest imagination. Imagination is power. It will make things happen. Imagination should be a priority. KISS, KIIT, Grameen Bank are the manifestation of wild imagination. The scientific discoveries of today were inspired by science fiction years back. The everyday experience of today is the wild imagination of past. Unless we imagine, it will not happen. We should be writing social fiction. That imagination will bring life in a different setup.”

Many other events are slated for the day. Prof. Yunus will launch his book ” A world of three Zeroes“. KISS will also sign MoU with Yunus Centre for Social Business.

The other prominent individuals who have received the prestigious award are – Edna Bomo Molewa, (2008), Dr Kee Sun Ham, President & Founder of Hanseo University, South Korea (2009), Sir Anerood Jugnauth, His Excellency the President of Mauritius (2010), Rt. Hon Lord Nicholas Addison Phillips, President (Chief Justice) of the Supreme Court of U.K (2011), Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, Hon’ble Prime Minister, The Royal Government of Bhutan (2012), Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder, Association François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB International), Switzerland (2013), Anne Stenhammer, Former Regional Programme Director, UN Women, South Asia Regional Office (2014), Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder, Association François-Xavier Bagnoud (FXB International), Switzerland (2015) and Hollywood actor and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Global Goodwill Ambassador Ashley Judd (2016).

Tibetan spiritual leader and Nobel Laureate His Holiness The 14^th Dalai Lama has been honored with 10^th ‘KISS Humanitarian Award’ at a special function held at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS),Bhubaneswar  on November 21, 2017. Smt. Saswati Bal, President, KIIT & KISS and Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder presented the award before an audience of 27,000 indigenous students of the institute and a host of dignitaries.

‘Let the 21^st century be the century of compassion and peace’–The Dalai Lama 

The award citation recognized his “concern for the oppressed human beings from all over the world in need of compassion”. He is a beacon of hope, aspiration and inspiration for the millions of people across the world, it mentioned, while noting his struggles and sacrifices for the people and universal compassion.

Recipient : Ms. Ashley Judd, Hollywood Actor, Activist & Global Goodwill Ambassador, UNFPA

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Ashley Judd wins KISS Humanitarian Award

The prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2016 was conferred on the American actor-activist and Global Goodwill Ambassador for the UNFPA, Ashley Judd at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, Bhubaneswar on February 9, 2017

Dr. S. C. Jamir, His Excellency the Governor of Odisha presented the award in the august presence of Hon’ble Dr. Justice Dalveer Bhandari, Judge, International Court of Justice, The Hague; Madhu Bhandari; Diego Palacios, UNFPA India Country Representative and Country Director, Bhutan; C. J. Venugopal, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Odisha; Padma Shri Jitendra Haripal, singer; Saswati Bal, President, KIIT & KISS; Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT & KISS; and R. N. Dash, Secretary.

“Human rights are under challenge all over the world and we need champions like Ms. Ashley Judd now more than ever”, said Dr. Jamir, commending her as a tireless champion of women rights. KISS is a glowing example of protecting human rights of tribal children, he stated, while expressing happiness that the Institute has been honouring outstanding men and women from all parts of the world through this annual award.

The award citation commended her work “to protect vulnerable women and girls from sex trafficking and empower young women” and recognized her as “a tireless ambassador of women’s right and a vocal critic of our biased social system”. She was unanimously chosen for the award for her “concern for the poor and vulnerable, and contributions in the field of health, poverty eradication and human rights”.

Expressing gratitude for the honour, Ms. Judd said, KISS is transforming poverty through education and nutrition. This award will empower and make me energetic to do more work for women and girl children. “I was sexually assaulted as a seven-year old”, she revealed, while stressing that violence and discrimination against women is pervasive in all countries and cultures. Women should have control of their own body, sex, and fertility, she insisted. “Support each other, help your people and your community”, she advised the 25,000 tribal girls and boys of the Institute witnessing the presentation ceremony.

Ms. Judd is a popular American actor who has played leading roles in Hollywood hits like Ruby in Paradise, Where the Heart is, Kiss the Girls and Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. Apart from her unforgettable performances in highly acclaimed films, the former Golden Globe and Emmy nominee has been involved in global humanitarian work since 2004. Her initial work revolved around AIDS in Africa. She is strongly committed to the cause of social justice, poverty eradication and sustainable development and a passionate advocate of rights of the girl child and women. Associated with numerous charities and foundations across the world, she was appointed Global Goodwill Ambassador for the UNFPA in 2016.

“This award is recognition of her commitment to humanitarian causes”, said Mr. Diego Palacios, informing that KISS and UNFPA have partnered to implement Life Skills Education programme in Odisha. UNFPA is proud of the recognition, he added.

The KISS Humanitarian Award was created in 2008 by Prof. Achyuta Samanta, a prominent educationist and social activist, to honour individuals with exceptional contribution to the society in various fields relating to social issues and who have distinguished themselves as true humanitarians. It takes its name from Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), founded by Prof. Samanta in 1993. A unique and internationally acclaimed initiative of empowerment through education, KISS today serves 32,000 poorest of the poor tribal children (25,308 students and 7000 alumni) who receive free education, lodging, boarding, complete health care, enabling life and vocational skills.

Chosen by a high-level jury, KISS Humanitarian Award is being presented every year since its inception to great compassionate leaders of vision and concern for human values from different parts of the world.

“The award, comprising a citation and a gold plated trophy that depicts a great social message, has attained much covetousness over the years”, said Prof. Samanta in his welcome address. It is the celebration of the struggles of the extraordinary human beings who try to alleviate the sufferings from the face of the earth, he stated.

“The trophy with a golden shine depicts a pair of hands upholding a heart that bears a smear of a multitude of waving hands. The pair of hands in the upholding gesture and the large heart represents compassionate service to humanity. A single pair of hands upholding the heart depicts how by art of giving a pair of dedicated hands can make a great difference in the lives of the helpless many. The shining golden color of the trophy stands for purity, altruism, prosperity and hope”, Prof. Samanta explained.

Ms. Ashley Judd is the ninth KISS Humanitarian Laureate. Previous recipients of this prestigious award are : His Excellency Dr. Alejandro Toledo, Former President of Peru (2015); Ms. Anne F. Stenhammer, Former Regional Programme Director, UN Women, South Asia Regional Office (2014); Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder, FXB International, Switzerland; His Excellency Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, Hon’ble Prime Minister, The Royal Government of Bhutan (2012); Rt. Hon. Lord Nicholas Addison Phillips, President (Chief Justice) of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom (2011); Rt. Hon. Sir Anerood Jugnauth, Eminent Social Worker & His Excellency the President of Mauritius (2010); Dr. Ham Kee-Sun, Eminent Educationist & Physician and Hon’ble President & Founder, Hanseo University, South Korea (2009); Ms. Edna Bomo Molewa, Noted Social Worker & Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Social Development, South Africa National Assembly, South Africa (2008).

Smt. Bal delivered the presidential address, while R. N. Dash proposed vote of thanks.

Recipient : Dr. Alejandro Toledo, Former President of Peru

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The prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2015 was presented to His Excellency Dr. Alejandro Toledo, Former President of Peru at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Bhubaneswar on October 22, 2015.

Former President of Peru Receives KISS Humanitarian Award 2015

The prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2015 was presented to His Excellency Dr. Alejandro Toledo, Former President of Peru at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Bhubaneswar on October 22, 2015. Smt. Saswati Bal, President, KIIT & KISS and Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder presented the award in the august presence of Madam Eliane Karp-Toledo, His Excellency Mr. J. J. Guillermo Betancourt Rivera, Ambassador of Peru to India, Mr. Carlos Jimenez Gil-Fortoul, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Peru in India and Shri R. N. Dash, Secretary, KIIT & KISS.

The award citation recognized him as an “icon of hope and aspirations of millions of poverty stricken and indigenous aborigine people around the world.” Dr. Toledo was the first South American President of indigenous descent to be democratically elected when he became President of Peru in 2001. During his five-year term, his central aim was the fight against poverty through investment in healthcare and education. As a result of social policies directed to the poorest of the poor, extreme poverty was reduced by 25 per cent in five years, and employment rose at an average rate of 6 per cent during his term.

He grew up in extreme poverty in a family of sixteen siblings. However, he worked his way up against all odds, obtained higher education from top universities of the U.S. and went on to be elected the President of Peru. Education is the most effective weapon to slay poverty and inequality, Dr. Toledo said in his acceptance address. Speaking to 25,000 tribal boys and girls of KISS, he said, “I invite you to dream in order to be successful, but dream with your eyes open. Don’t get truncated by the impossibility of your dreams. We have a lot of things in common”.

“Dr. Samanta is changing the lives of millions of people. We give you tribute. I was born in a poor family in the high mountains of Andes of Peru. I grew up in extreme poverty – 7 out of 16 of my siblings died within the first year of birth. They died as they didn’t have access to health care, nutrition and sanitation, and the visionary Dr. Samanta. We didn’t have Dr. Samanta in my country and my continent”, the Former President of Peru stated.

Recounting the story of his life he said, his father decided to migrate from the mountains to the sea port when he was 4.5 years old. “I am of short height due to malnourishment, but I could save my mind. A shoe shining boy, newspaper seller to supplement the daily income, I come from where you come from. The challenge is same, even though the language and religion are different. You have the luck of being at KISS”, he told the students.

It is an emotional and happy experience to be amongst 25,000 indigenous children, said Madam Toledo, adding that it is a great learning as Peru also has a sizeable indigenous population. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rivera stated, Dr. Toledo’s life gives the message that one can achieve any success by studying hard and being gentle to others. This award is recognition to an extraordinary life who is committed to work for the poorest for the poor, he added.

In her presidential address, Smt. Bal said, presenting KISS Humanitarian Award 2015 to Dr. Toledo was a great honour for the institute. His words will be a source of great inspiration for the students of the institute, she added. Welcoming the former President of Peru and the visiting dignitaries, Dr. Samanta said, the recipient is a beacon of light to the aborigines of South America and his concern for the common man and indigenous people is well known all over the world.

The KISS Humanitarian Award was instituted by Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Bhubaneswar in 2008 to honour and recognize individuals with exceptionally high contribution to the society in various fields relating to social issues and who have distinguished themselves as true humanitarians. The award is presented annually and its recipient is chosen by a high-level jury. KISS Humanitarian Award is being presented every year since its inception to great compassionate leaders of vision and concern for human values from different parts of the world.

Dr. Alejandro Toledo is the eighth KISS Humanitarian Laureate. Previous recipients of this prestigious award are: Ms. Anne F. Stenhammer, Former Regional Programme Director, UN Women, South Asia Regional Office (2014); Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder, FXB International, Switzerland (2013); His Excellency Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, Hon’ble Prime Minister, The Royal Government of Bhutan (2012); Rt. Hon. Lord Nicholas Addison Phillips, President (Chief Justice) of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom (2011); Rt. Hon. Sir Anerood Jugnauth, Eminent Social Worker & His Excellency the President of Mauritius (2010); Dr. Ham Kee-Sun, Eminent Educationist & Physician and Hon’ble President & Founder, Hanseo University, South Korea (2009); Ms. Edna Bomo Molewa, Noted Social Worker & Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Social Development, South Africa National Assembly, South Africa (2008).

Shri R. N. Dash, Secretary, KIIT & KISS also spoke on the occasion, while Dr. P. K. Routray, CEO, KISS proposed the vote of thanks.