Bhubaneswar, Jul 16: Social organisation MAMATA, which has been working for the welfare of women, children, youth and persons with disabilities for nearly three decades, celebrated its annual day with a renewed focus on girl child protection, education and empowerment.

Speaking at the event, MAMATA President Bijaya Mishra highlighted that since its establishment in 1996, the organisation has been implementing a wide range of initiatives in the fields of education, healthcare and environmental conservation, making a significant impact on vulnerable communities across Odisha.

The programme was chaired by Dr. Jagadananda, while Guru Sri Chandrabhanu Satpathy blessed the gathering. Former Odisha Cabinet Minister Niranjan Patnaik, who attended as the chief guest, praised MAMATA for its sustained commitment to social development and community empowerment.

A major highlight of this year's annual celebration was the S.B. Mishra Memorial Lecture, delivered by retired IAS officer and former Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Odisha, Aravind Behera, on the theme "Centenary Visions: A Selective Critique."

During his address, Behera examined the ambitious goals of Odisha Vision 2036 and Vision 2047, cautioning against measuring development solely through GDP growth, mineral extraction and rapid urbanisation. He stressed that true and sustainable development requires equal emphasis on quality education, water security, forest conservation, biodiversity, local livelihoods and participatory governance.

Referring to the environmental and social consequences of mining-led industrialisation, Behera underlined the need to strengthen micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), improve the quality of public education, promote community-based natural resource management and establish robust regulatory systems to ensure balanced and inclusive growth.

On the occasion, MAMATA also released its Annual Report, the International Women's Day 2026 commemorative publication, and a compilation titled "Alternative Medicines: A Holistic Approach to Healing."

The event brought together academicians, representatives of voluntary organisations, social activists, volunteers and community leaders, who acknowledged MAMATA's longstanding contribution to building a more just, equitable and sustainable society. Winners of various competitions organised by the organisation were also felicitated during the programme.