By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR:The Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF) invites applications for the 22nd edition of the Professor Ghanashyam Dash Scholarship for Higher Education (PGDS) 2026-27. The scholarship supports meritorious students pursuing professional degrees in Engineering, Medicine, STEM and Liberal Arts. Selected scholars receive up to 90% of academic fees and eligible expenses, amounting to Rs. 6 lakh per recipient, for a four-year course.
Instituted in 2005 by IMFA and named after the renowned historian Late Prof. Ghanashyam Dash, father of Late Mrs. Ila Panda, the scholarship aims to make education a powerful catalyst for change and ensure that no youth is left behind. Since 2016, BIPF has been carrying forward this legacy. Over the years, PGDS scholars have made it to premier institutes across India, including AIIMS, IITs, IIITs, NITs, SCB Medical College and other leading medical and engineering colleges. Beyond financial support, the Foundation offers Utsaah – a structured mentorship programme focusing on academic excellence, career guidance, time management, mental well-being, life skills, leadership and communication.
Students who are domiciled in Odisha and have qualified NEET, JEE, JEE Advanced or CUET this year may visit www.bipf.org.in for detailed eligibility criteria and to apply before 30th October 2026.
Established in 2011, the Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation works to engage, educate and empower underserved communities across Odisha, with a focus on women and youth. Operating in more than six districts of Odisha and covering hundreds of villages, BIPF has touched the lives of thousands through its education, health and livelihood initiatives. Among its flagship programmes, are the Kanya Express mobile health van, which has reached thousands of adolescent girls with anaemia prevention and nutrition support, E-Shikshya Express that brings digital learning to young boys and girls at their doorstep, and Project Unnati that builds women’s capacities to create sustainable livelihoods. The Shambhavi Puraskar, has grown into a prestigious platform for recognising individuals and organisations whose innovative work has created lasting impact. The Foundation has earned national recognition, including multiple CSR awards, affirming its role as a catalyst for meaningful change. For more information, please visit www.bipf.org.in
