SAKTI SIKHA DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY

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Our Board

Our Board

The Governing Board of Sakti Sikha serves as the cornerstone of the organization’s leadership, ensuring sound governance, strategic direction, and accountability. The Board provides vision, wisdom, and oversight, guiding the organization to remain steadfast in its mission and values while responding effectively to the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

Comprising seven highly accomplished individuals, the Board brings together diverse expertise from public service, social work, rural development, academia, research, and policy advocacy. This blend of knowledge and experience fosters an environment of informed decision-making, innovation, and collective responsibility. Their guidance ensures that Sakti Sikha continues to design and implement initiatives that promote equity, sustainability, and community empowerment.

Each member contributes unique professional insights and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, they embody the organization’s spirit of collaboration and dedication to social transformation. Through their continued leadership and mentorship, the Governing Board strengthens Sakti Sikha’s mission to enhance livelihoods and improve the well-being of vulnerable communities across India.

Executive Director

Mr. Tusar Kanta Behera

Sri Tusar Kanta Behera, a seasoned Development Professional, has been at the forefront of implementing and guiding numerous development initiatives across Odisha. With over 22 years of extensive experience, he has successfully led and contributed to more than 110 development projects supported by various Government Departments, International Agencies, and CSR partners. His work primarily focuses on climate change action, renewable energy, and natural resource management, driving meaningful and sustainable impact at the grassroots level. Mr. Behera’s commitment to the development sector is reflected in his scholarly contributions — he has published 14 articles in nationally reputed journals and continues to share insights that advance the field of community development. He is also a life member of several distinguished professional bodies, including the National Association of Professional Social Workers in India (NAPSWI), the Odisha Economic Association, and the UN Solution Exchange. Between 2014 and 2019, he served as a Nominated Member of the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, to the Odisha State Vigilance and Monitoring Committee, where he played a pivotal role in recommending people-centric policy reforms. Under his leadership, Sakti Sikha – Development Society continues to uphold its mission of empowering vulnerable communities and fostering inclusive, sustainable development across the state.

Mr. Tusar Kanta Behera

President

Prof (Dr.) Hruday Nath Thatoi

Prof (Dr.) Hruday Nath Thatoi, PhD, serves as the President and a distinguished Board Member of our organization. He is currently the Research Director at the Center for Industrial Biotechnology, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) University, Odisha, where he contributes significantly to advancing scientific innovation and biotechnological research. Dr. Thatoi obtained his doctorate in Botany from Utkal University, Odisha, and has since built an eminent academic and research career. His expertise, leadership, and deep commitment to scientific and community development continue to inspire and guide our organization’s mission and initiatives.

Ms. Monalisha Nayak

Secretary

Mrs. Laxmipriya Dandpat

Mrs. Laxmipriya Dandpat, the Secretary is an accomplished Development Professional with over 24 years of extensive experience in the development sector. Holding a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW), they have dedicated their career to promoting inclusive growth, social empowerment, and sustainable community development across diverse regions of Odisha. Throughout their professional journey, the Secretary has played a pivotal role in conceptualizing, managing, and implementing various development initiatives focused on livelihood enhancement, social welfare, gender equity, and community participation. Their deep understanding of grassroots realities, coupled with a strong commitment to social justice, has been instrumental in driving impactful change and building resilient communities. With their leadership and experience, Sakti Sikha continues to strengthen its organizational vision and mission — empowering the marginalized and fostering sustainable, equitable development for all.

Ms. Laxmipriya Dandpat

Asst. Secretary

Sj. Chaitanya Biswal

Sj. Chaitanya Biswal, the Assistant Secretary is a highly experienced Development Professional with nearly 40 years of dedicated service in the social development sector. Holding qualifications in MBA, B.A., and B.Ed., he brings a strong combination of academic excellence, managerial expertise, and practical field experience to the organization. Throughout his distinguished career, he has contributed extensively to initiatives focused on community empowerment, education, rural development, and sustainable livelihoods. His deep understanding of social dynamics and commitment to participatory development have been instrumental in shaping effective, people-centered programs that promote long-term impact. With his decades of leadership and dedication, the Assistant Secretary continues to strengthen Sakti Sikha’s mission of fostering equitable development and empowering marginalized communities through innovation, collaboration, and social responsibility.

Sj. Chaitanya Biswal

Treasurer

Dr. Srustidhar Rout

Dr. Srustidhar Rout, Treasurer of Sakti Sikha – Development Society, is a distinguished Natural Resource Management (NRM) and Biodiversity Expert with over 34 years of professional experience in the fields of environmental science, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable development. Holding a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Dr. Rout has dedicated his career to advancing the principles of ecological balance, community-based resource management, and sustainable livelihoods. His extensive experience spans a wide range of initiatives focused on environmental planning, biodiversity conservation, and natural resource governance. As a visionary leader, he brings a strong scientific foundation and strategic insight to the organization’s programs, ensuring that all interventions align with sustainability, inclusivity, and evidence-based practices. Under Dr. Rout’s guidance, Sakti Sikha continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst for positive environmental action and community empowerment, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

Dr. Srustidhar Rout

Member

Ms. Priyanka Mishra

Ms. Priyanka Mishra, Governing Member of Sakti Sikha – Development Society, is an accomplished Development Professional with over 14 years of experience in the development sector. Holding a Master’s degree in Rural Development, she brings strong academic knowledge and practical expertise in the areas of community empowerment, rural livelihoods, and participatory development. Throughout her professional journey, Ms. Mishra has been actively involved in initiatives that promote poverty reduction, women’s empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, and natural resource management. Her commitment to inclusive growth and community-led action has contributed to strengthening local institutions and improving the socio-economic well-being of marginalized groups. With her deep understanding of rural development dynamics and passion for social change, Ms. Priyanka Mishra continues to play a key role in advancing Sakti Sikha’s mission to build resilient, equitable, and self-reliant communities across Odisha.

Ms. Priyanka Mishra

Member

Mrs. Nibedita Mohanty

Mrs. Nibedita Mohanty, Governing Member of Sakti Sikha – Development Society, is an experienced NGO Administration Professional with around 10 years of dedicated service in the development sector. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, she combines analytical understanding with strong administrative and managerial skills to ensure effective organizational operations and program implementation. Throughout her career, Mrs. Mohanty has been instrumental in strengthening institutional systems, coordinating development programs, and promoting transparency and efficiency within organizational processes. Her work has supported initiatives focused on community development, social inclusion, and livelihood enhancement, contributing to Sakti Sikha’s mission of empowering marginalized communities. With her commitment to good governance, accountability, and teamwork, Mrs. Nibedita Mohanty continues to play a vital role in enhancing the organizational effectiveness and impact of Sakti Sikha – Development Society.

Ms. Nibedita