By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, May 22, 2018: Renowned industrialist and founder of Indian Metal and Ferro Alloys (IMFA) passed away on Tuesday here. He was 87.

A research scientist turned entrepreneur, he is one among the first generation industrialist known for his visionary leadership, business acumen and philanthropic activities in Odisha and beyond. He founded IMFA, in 1961, after his return from US.

Born in 1931, Bansidhar Panda was instrumental in setting up industries that contributed to Odisha’s development in a big way. Panda is survived by his two sons Baijayant Panda, Subhrakant Panda and two daughters Paramita and Nita Ganapati.

Dr Bansidhar Panda was a scientist of international repute. He attained degrees from prestigious universities like Benaras Hindu University, Michigan Technological University and Harvard. With more than 50 years of experience in the ferro alloys industry, he is acknowledged as an authority on the subject.

Dr Panda has served on Boards of Air India and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Besides, he has been the former Chairman of the Board of Governors of NIT, Rourkela; and member on the governing Boards of IIT, Kharagpur and IIM, Kolkata.

Beyond business, he is also known for his philanthropic activities and love for literature. Much before the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility, Panda has been instrumental instilling the culture of inclusive growth in IMFA. Inspired by his vision for making a positive impact on society, IMFA has been doing commendable work in the field of Education, Vocational Training, Basic Healthcare, Water & Sanitation and Infrastructure Development.

The Sarala Award for literature and Ekalabya Puruskar for sports, which were founded by IMFA under his leadership, are recognised as the highest achievements in their respective fields.

He is survived by two sons Baijayant and Subhrakant and two daughters Paramita and Nita Ganapati.

Many eminent personalities paid tributes to Bansidhar Panda at his residence after which his mortal remains were taken in an ambulance to his native village Madhuban under Barang block of Cuttack district. A pall of gloom descended on the village and many gathered to catch a final glimpse of Panda. Later, his body was consigned to flames at the village cremation ground by his elder son Baijayant Panda in presence of a huge gathering.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his grief over the demise of the renowned industrialist and conveyed his deep sympathy to the bereaved family.