With profound grief and heavy hearts, we remember Shri Ashok Kumar Panda, Superintending Engineer, MES (EME), Secunderabad, who left for his heavenly abode on 2nd May 2026, just two months before his retirement in July 2026. His untimely departure has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family, friends, colleagues, students, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.Some people enter our lives quietly, yet leave footprints so deep that their absence echoes forever. Baba was one such person — not merely a father but a mentor, guide, philosopher, teacher, and a constant source of strength and inspiration.
His life was a remarkable journey of dedication, humility, learning, and service. In April 2025, he was promoted to the post of Superintending Engineer, marking a proud milestone in his distinguished professional career. Despite his demanding responsibilities, he continued pursuing his Ph.D., proving that learning never ends for those who truly seek knowledge.
A lifelong learner with an M.Tech and Ph.D., he found immense joy in books, intellectual discussions, and mentoring young minds. He passionately taught and guided students from schools and engineering colleges, always encouraging them to dream bigger and work harder. His wisdom and ability to explain even complex subjects with patience and simplicity earned him admiration from students and peers alike.
His academic and professional contributions were equally inspiring. He presented the technical paper titled “Invest, Include & Excel: Indian Defence Indigenisation” during the 40th Indian Engineering Congress hosted by NIT Durgapur. He also represented his work at international conferences, bringing recognition through his research, vision, and dedication.
Recognizing his leadership qualities and commitment, he was selected by the department to attend the prestigious Atmanirbhar Karmayogi Leadership Program. His scholarly excellence also led to a book chapter publication by Taylor & Francis, London — a matter of immense pride for all who knew him.
Further reflecting the respect he earned in academic circles, he was selected as an External Member for Internal Quality Assurance for Online Learning Programs by KIIT, Bhubaneswar. He is also selected as the Empanelled Advisor for UPSC examination.
Yet beyond all these achievements, what truly made him extraordinary was the person he was at heart. He was kind, grounded, soft-spoken, and deeply caring. He believed in uplifting others and standing beside people during their difficult times. He found happiness not only in professional success, but also in the simple pleasures of life — books, meaningful conversations, teaching, and enjoying Odia and Bengali food with warmth and affection.
Today, though words fall short in expressing the pain of this loss, his memories continue to live within us. His teachings, values, compassion, and unwavering dedication will forever inspire everyone whose lives he touched.
On this 12th day ritual, we offer our heartfelt prayers for his noble soul. Though he is no longer physically with us, his legacy of knowledge, kindness, and humanity will remain eternal.
You will always be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever respected.
May your soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti.
Aditya(Son) Rashmita(Beloved Wife)
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