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Emphasises Cadre Strengthening and Professional Excellence
A seminar on “Public Relations in the Digital Age” was organised, highlighting the changing responsibilities, emerging challenges and new opportunities for PROs.
Bhubaneswar, 10/10/2026 ( Odisha Samachar )- The Odisha Information Service Association (OISA) held its Annual Function 2026 today at Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, with the participation of OIS officers serving in subdivisions, districts, RDC headquarters, and the State Headquarters across various ministries and departments of the Government of Odisha.
A seminar on “Public Relations in the Digital Age: Changing Responsibilities, Emerging Challenges and New Opportunities for Public Relations Officers” was organised as part of the function to deliberate on the changing landscape of public relations and the emerging responsibilities of officers in the digital era.
Shri Sanjay Kumar Biswal, IAS, Director, Information and Public Relations Department, Odisha, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Shri Ashok Kumar Beuria, Additional Secretary, I&PR Department, attended as the Guest of Honour, while Prof. Anand Pradhan, Regional Director, Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Dhenkanal, was the Chief Speaker.
Addressing on the occasion, Director, I&PR Shri Biswal emphasised the importance of the OISA in promoting professional growth and collective development among OIS officers. He assured that the Government would extend necessary support towards strengthening the cadre to enhance the effectiveness of public service delivery.
Prof. Anand Pradhan elaborated on the seminar theme, highlighting the growing importance of digital media, timely and credible information dissemination, effective media engagement and people-centric communication. He stressed the need for Public Relations Officers to adapt to emerging technologies, counter misinformation, upgrade their professional skills and adopt innovative communication strategies to strengthen public trust and facilitate effective communication between the Government and the people.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. OISA President Smt. Sucheta Priyadarshini, General Secretary Shri Pathani Rout, Advisor of OISA Shri Santosh Kumar Das, Vice-President Shri Bibhuti Bhusan Nayak, Joint Secretary Shri Deepak Kumar Sahoo, office-bearers and Working Committee members were present on the occasion.
Retired OIS officers who had served the department in various capacities were felicitated in recognition of their valuable contributions. They also shared their experiences and insights from their years of service, inspiring serving officers and highlighting the importance of professional commitment and dedication to public service.
The post-lunch Annual General Body Meeting deliberated on cadre-related issues, professional development and measures to strengthen the Association. The General Body unanimously resolved to pursue cadre strengthening, timely promotional opportunities, capacity building and regular training of officers through sustained follow-up with the Department, with a view to promoting professional excellence, ensuring career progression and improving public service delivery.
The OISA also expressed its gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, for releasing the OISA souvenir “Loka Sampark” on 9 October 2026, during the Orientation Programme for OIS officers on “Emerging Trends in Social Media”, organised by the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Odisha, a day prior to the Annual Function.
Today’s programme also featured poetry recitation, mimicry and other cultural activities, offering officers an opportunity to showcase their literary and creative talents. The performances added vibrancy to the occasion and fostered camaraderie and fellowship among serving and retired OIS officers.
