Scientist Mohapatra gets Kalinga Samman-2011

Bhubaneswar, Jan 5 (PTI) Eminent scientist Gokulananda Mohapatra was today presented the prestigious Kalinga Samman-2011 for his contribution in popularisation of science in Odisha. Governor M C Bhandare honoured Mohapatra at the valedictory session of the two-day International Conference of celebration of 60th anniversary of Unesco Kalinga Prize for popularisation of science here. Kalinga Foundation Trust had instituted the state level prize in 2010. The annual prize is given to an eminent scientist and science populariser of Odisha for his/her outstanding contribution for popularisation of science among the common people. The prize carries a cash award of Rs 1 Lakh, a memento and a citation. The winner is selected by a three member jury of eminent scientists. Meanwhile, the trust also announced its plan to publish a quarterly Odia magazine on science. "We will consider publication of the magazine also in English language," Trust chairman B C Patnaik said. This apart, he said the trust has also decided to honour children scientists annually in order to popularise science at school levels.