Bhubaneswar: Professor Chandi Prasad Nanda formally took charge as the Vice-Chancellor of Utkal University on Monday.
A distinguished historian with nearly three decades of experience in teaching and academic administration, Professor Nanda has previously served as Head of the Odisha Research Centre. His appointment has generated optimism among the university community, with many hoping he will strengthen academic standards, promote high-quality research, and bring greater efficiency to the administration of Odisha’s oldest and most prestigious university.
Soon after assuming office, Professor Nanda began his day with a visit to the Jagannath Temple and Maa Talapadeswari Temple located within the university campus, seeking divine blessings. He then took charge from the outgoing in-charge Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jagneshwar Dandapat.
In a thoughtful gesture, the new Vice-Chancellor donated blood at a blood donation camp organised by the NSS Unit of Utkal University as part of Odia Pakhya celebrations. Later, Prof. Nanda interacted with faculty members and staff in his office, where he emphasised the need for greater energy efficiency, sustainability, and cleanliness on campus, along with effective application of research for institutional development.
In the afternoon, he inaugurated ‘Odia Khadya Divas’ at the BARC Outreach Centre, where traditional Odia cuisines were showcased and celebrated.
In the evening, Prof. Nanda paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Governor of Odisha and Chancellor of the University, accompanied by Registrar Dr Swati Mishra. The meeting focused on the future growth and development prospects of Utkal University.
During the meeting, Prof. Nanda prioritised the preparation of a White Paper on key issues facing the university and stressed the importance of making the campus clean and green. He also disposed of several pending personal claim files of staff members.
