Bhubaneswar: The Nursing Principals’ & Superintendents’ Meet–2026 was successfully organized by the Trained Nurses’ Association of India (TNAI), Odisha State Branch, in collaboration with TNAI Headquarters, New Delhi, on 11 July 2026 at SUM Nursing College, Campus–2, Bhubaneswar.

The event brought together nursing leaders, educators, administrators, policymakers, and professionals from across the state on a common platform to deliberate on the future of nursing leadership, professional development, and excellence in nursing practice.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the light of knowledge and compassionate care, followed by a warm and formal welcome address by   Dr. Ritanjali Sahoo, Secretary, TNAI Odisha State Branch. Dr. Anasuya Pattanayak, President, TNAI Odisha State Branch, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the pivotal role of professional unity in strengthening nursing education and healthcare services.

The inaugural session was graced by eminent dignitaries from the national and state levels. The Chief Guest, Dr. Rajendra Kumar Panigrahi, Director of Nursing, Government of Odisha, addressed the gathering on the achievements, emerging opportunities, and future challenges in nursing administration and professional regulation in Odisha. The Guests of Honour, Dr. (Mrs.) Laxmi Rana, sponsor of the Star Nurse Odisha Award and Mrs. Rosalin Patasani Mishra, Founder of Parichaya Foundation, inspired the audience through their motivating messages, highlighting the values of dedication, compassionate service and professional excellence.

The gathering was further enriched by the inspiring addresses of the national leadership of TNAI. Dr. Annie Kumar, National President, TNAI, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the evolving role of nurses in transforming healthcare delivery and strengthening professional leadership. Dr. Abhilekha Biswal, National Vice-President (East Region), TNAI, Mrs. Evelyn P. Kannan, Secretary-General, TNAI and Mrs. Vatchala Dhinakaran, Assistant Secretary-General, TNAI, shared their valuable insights on contemporary issues, professional empowerment, leadership development and the future direction of the nursing profession at both the state and national levels.

Representing the host institution, Dr. Pravati Tripathy, Director, and Dr. Anuradha Panda, Dean, SUM Nursing College, Campus–2, highlighted the remarkable progress and innovations in nursing education and skill-based learning initiatives in Odisha.

A significant highlight of the programme was the Star Nurse Odisha Award Ceremony. The Star Nurse Odisha Award, instituted to recognize exemplary nursing service and professional excellence, was sponsored by Dr. (Mrs.) Laxmi Rana, Life Member of TNAI.

Dr. Ritanjali Sahoo, Chairperson of the Award Committee, presented the objectives and significance of the State Excellence in Nursing (Star Nurse Odisha) Award. The Star Nurse Odisha Award–2024 was conferred upon Dr. Arati Nayak, Chief Nursing Officer, East Coast Railway Hospital, Bhubaneswar, in recognition of her outstanding contributions, exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the nursing profession. The award ceremony received enthusiastic appreciation from the delegates and served as an inspiration to nursing professionals across the state.

Under the esteemed Chairmanship of Dr. Annie Kumar, National President, TNAI, an intellectually enriching panel discussion on “Professional Association and Nursing Institutions: Aligning Expectations for Professional Growth” was conducted. The session served as a dynamic platform for nursing leaders, educators, administrators, and professionals to engage in meaningful deliberations, exchange diverse perspectives and explore collaborative strategies for strengthening professional associations, advancing nursing education, fostering leadership and research and enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery. The discussion underscored the importance of partnership and shared responsibility in shaping a progressive and resilient nursing profession.  

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Asis Ranjan Mohanty, SNA Advisor, TNAI Odisha State Branch, who expressed sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, National Office Bearers, distinguished dignitaries, award sponsor, panelists, delegates, organizing committee, and all participants for making the event a grand success. The formal session was followed by a fellowship lunch, fostering networking and professional interaction among the participants.

In the afternoon, another historic milestone was achieved with the inauguration of the TNAI Odisha State Branch Headquarters and Advanced Skills Laboratory. The ceremony was attended by the National Office Bearers of TNAI Headquarters, Executive Committee Members of TNAI Odisha State Branch, distinguished guests, panelists and delegates from different parts of Odisha. The dignitaries formally inaugurated the new State Headquarters and the state-of-the-art Advanced Skills Laboratory, followed by a guided visit to all the members and delegates present.