Mr. Mohan Baliyarsingh, Director – Operations
Mr. Baliyarsingh is a highly experienced professional with over two decades of expertise in livelihood promotion and microfinance operations. Throughout his career, he has held key positions in prominent national-level institutions such as Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Nidhi, CARE India (CASHE Program), ACCION International, and ACCESS Development Services. A significant portion of his professional journey has been dedicated to managing microfinance projects and conducting training programs on various aspects of microfinance, including financial literacy. Mr. Baliyarsingh’s contributions are evident in the development of ToT resources, training materials, and financial literacy and SHG-federation management in English, Hindi, and Odia languages. His close involvement and supportive guidance have led to the establishment of numerous successful community-managed organizations and microfinance institutions in Odisha. He holds a Post-Graduation Diploma in Management from Berhampur University, and Post-Graduation in History from Utkal University.
Mr. Smruti Ranjan Sethi, Director- Strategy
Mr. Sethi, a B.SC (Agriculture) graduate from OUAT, and a post-graduate in MBA (International Business). He also bears some certificates on the most pressing issues of today’s world i.e. Climate Change from United Nations Institute for Training & Research. He is a professional with over 20 years of experience having expertise in Agriculture Project Management, Administration and Business Development. He has worked and held various leadership positions in some reputed organizations like, Reymount Commodities, IL&FS, Sharekhan Commodities, IIFL, IBEUL, ICARDA and CCX etc. He has a sound knowledge and has also managed certain climate adaptation and mitigation projects in Odisha and West Bengal. Apart from this , he has successfully implemented certain livelihood projects enhancing nutritional security, farmer’s income, making farmers seed self sufficient and creating market linkages through FPO/ FPC.
Mr. Bikram Kesari Patra, Head – Finance
Mr. Bikram Patra is a highly accomplished professional, holding an MBA degree in Finance & HR and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Utkal University. With an impressive tenure of nearly 25 years in finance and accounts, he has garnered extensive expertise in the field. In his previous roles, Mr. Patra played a pivotal role in structuring the financial systems of several non-profit organizations, in addition to training and developing a skilled workforce capable of handling accounting functions within those NGOs. Known for his meticulous approach to accounting, he also demonstrates a keen interest in training and capacity building, particularly for project and field staff. Currently, Mr. Patra leads the accounts & finance vertical at Mahashakti and takes on the added responsibility of overseeing legal and regulatory compliance matters.
Mr. Arun Kumar Pattnaik, Head – Internal Audit
Mr. Pattnaik is a dedicated professional responsible for overseeing the Internal Audit and compliance aspects of the Mahashakti group of entities. With his extensive experience of nearly 15 years at Mahashakti, he has played a crucial role in driving the growth and expansion of the organization’s services. Throughout his tenure, he has witnessed firsthand the evolving landscape of microfinance management and operations. Equipped with dual Masters degrees in Commerce and Business Administration (MBA), Mr. Pattnaik brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role, ensuring the highest standards of audit and compliance within the Mahashakti Group.
Mr. Rama Ballav Pattnayak, Head – IT
Mr. Pattnayak is a proactive professional with a strong inclination towards IT integration and its implementation in operational methodologies. Prior to joining the team, he gained valuable experience working with international funders such as UNDP, where he contributed to projects focused on mass education and financial inclusion. Mr. Pattnayak effectively combines his IT skills with risk management expertise, playing a pivotal role in developing robust IT frameworks for seamless operational service delivery. He has successfully managed Management Information Systems (MIS) responsibilities for a non-profit organization and a cooperative in Kalahandi district, supported by the CARE CASHE program. Currently, he is at the forefront of understanding operational requirements and leveraging IT support to simplify service delivery processes.
Mr. Debendra Kumar Samal, Head – HR
Mr. Samal is an accomplished HR professional with over 9 years of experience in HRM. He has showcased his expertise in diverse sectors, including development, education, and corporate settings. Throughout his career, he has been passionate about integrating technology into HR practices for efficient management. At Mahashakti, he has taken charge of implementing electronic tracking systems, contributing to the development of a comprehensive HRMS, and automating payroll processes. With a strong focus on organizational effectiveness and exceptional customer service, Mr. Samal leverages his MBA, PM & IR, and MSW degrees to drive impactful HR strategies.
Ms. Ruby Tripathy, Head – Social Securities
Ms. Tripathy has gained experience of handling the client and employee insurance part while handling the current role for close to 5 years. She to her credit has more than 9 years of work history after completion of her MA in Arts. Ms. Tripathy has earlier worked in the State Government set up as a Data Analyst, that has helped her gaining significant IT skills. She currently ensures that insurance related settlements are done in a hassle-free manner, for both clients as well as staff levels.
Mr. Mihir Ranjan Sagar, Agri. Expert – Crop Husbandry
Mr. Sagar is a highly skilled agriculture production and marketing professional with an impressive two-decade track record in project management, implementation, and agri-value chain expertise. He has consistently been involved in various agriculture-focused projects throughout his career. Prior to joining Mahashakti, Mr. Sagar served as the team lead in the OIIPCRA project of the State Government. In his current role at Mahashakti, he oversees all aspects of agriculture production, provides technical support services, and conducts training programs for employees and FPO functionaries in these areas. His profound knowledge and experience make him an invaluable asset to the organization’s agricultural endeavours.
Mr Ashish Kumar Nayak, Senior Manager – Strategies
Mr. Nayak is a dynamic professional who holds a B.Tech degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Silicon Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar. After gaining valuable experience in his core field for approximately five years, he pursued an MBA in Rural Management from Xavier School of Rural Management (XIMB-RM), Bhubaneswar. Over the past three years, he has been a valuable member of the Mahashakti team, demonstrating his ability to quickly grasp and comprehend the intricacies of the sector. Mr. Nayak’s exceptional learning skills and deep understanding have positioned him as a proficient strategist, handling crucial initiatives for the organization with utmost professionalism.
Mr. Ramesh Chandra Pradhan, Manager – Accounts
Mr. Pradhan is a seasoned professional who has dedicated over 16 years to the finance department of Mahashakti Foundation. He initially joined the organization in 2006 as an Accountant and has continually showcased his expertise in financial management and banking operations. Over the course of his tenure, Mr. Pradhan has honed his skills in effectively managing the organization’s banking operations, demonstrating a deep understanding of financial management, cash flow analysis, portfolio tracking, and bookkeeping. His extensive experience spans both non-profit organizations and the broader finance industry, making him a valuable asset to Mahashakti’s finance team.
Mr. Hrushikesh Sahu, Sr. Manager
Mr. Sahu is an astute project manager with a strong passion for understanding the deliverables and impact of various projects undertaken by Mahashakti. He has actively participated in numerous training programs on renewable energy, agriculture promotion, and microfinance management conducted by TERI, New Delhi, and BIRD, Lucknow. With over 13 years of experience in the development sector, he has contributed to a significant number of developmental projects implemented by both the State Government and non-profit organizations. At Mahashakti, he serves as a senior professional responsible for monitoring, reviewing, and reporting on ongoing projects. His expertise and dedication greatly enhance the organization’s project management and reporting capabilities.
Mr. Suresh Patnaik, Sr. Manager
Mr. Patnaik brings an impressive two decades of experience in the development sector, where he has successfully handled program and finance portfolios with a strong emphasis on program planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation. Throughout his journey in the social sector, he has had the opportunity to work on diverse multi-sectoral projects, including community health initiatives focused on malaria and reproductive and child health, natural resource management, climate change adaptation, agri-product processing and productivity enhancement, education, and advocacy. Working as a Senior Manager, Mr. Patnaik is dedicated to contributing towards the effective implementation of various thematic projects across Odisha, ensuring their successful outcomes.
Mr. Saroj Kumar Mohapatra, Manager – Statutory Compliances
Mr. Saroj Mohapatra possesses a Diploma in Finance & Accounting from NIIT and a Master’s degree in Finance & Control from Utkal University. He gained valuable experience working with HDFC Bank’s SLI division (CSR), where he focused on budgeting and cost control. Additionally, Mr. Mohapatra has contributed his expertise to tax audit activities for State Bank of India, Axis Bank, and Canara Bank. Currently, he is actively involved in the organisation’s secretarial compliance and audit matters. Furthermore, he holds a certificate in Sustainability & Social Norms from Xavier University, Bhubaneswar.
Mr. Debendra Mishra, District Manager
Mr. Mishra possesses a diverse range of experience and expertise gained through his work with the Government, Corporate (CSR), and non-profit sectors. He has developed a deep understanding of improved farm practices and the promotion of FPOs, along with their market linkage for agricultural produce. During his tenure with progressive non-profit organizations, he had the privilege of attending agriculture-focused training programs organized by ICRISAT and ALC India. Currently, at Mahashakti, Mr. Mishra is responsible for overseeing social development projects while also providing technical support for FPO promotion and registration, ensuring the organization’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.
Ms. Priyanka Kumari, Agri. Expert (Crop Husbandry & Convergence)
An energetic young agricultural engineering professional who has devoted 5 years in learning the role of farmers collectives for successful implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. Ms. Priyanka has earlier worked with Harsha Trust in different agriculture, livelihood and health sector related projects. She was instrumental in strengthening the institutional structure of an FPO based out of a remote & backward block of Th. Rampur (promoted by Mahashakti under CSS), while working as its CEO. Currently she is working as a key team member for the effective implementation of HDFC Bank Parivartan supported FRD Project in Sambalpur and Bargarh region.
Miss. Priyadarshani Hota Project Manager
Ms. Hota is a highly skilled professional with a MSW degree from Utkal University. She brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles, including her work with HDFC Bank Parivartan supported HRDP and Selco Foundation’s “Access to Alternative Clean Energy for Improved Life and Livelihood” initiative. She also worked with DAPTA on projects such as “Promoting Community Health, Education & Access to Government Health Services Among PVTGs” in Lanjigarh, Kalahandi, supported by Azim Premji Philanthropic Initiatives (APPI), and “Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM)” supported by Fusion Micro Finance Limited (CSR). Ms. Hota’s expertise lies in community development, healthcare, and education, with a strong focus on marginalized and tribal populations.
Mr.Balakrushna Rath, Sr. Manager – HR & Admin
Mr. Balakrushna Rath is a seasoned professional with a career spanning nearly two decades. Starting with Vedanta Foundation in 2004 after his graduation, he played a pivotal role in setting up greenfield projects and emerged as a dedicated team player and leader, leaving a lasting social impact in the Lanjigarh area. Mr. Rath’s extensive experience extends to liaison with various government departments, ensuring the success and growth of multiple projects. With his diverse background, including a brief stint at SAMBAD, Odisha’s largest daily newspaper, as Assistant Manager, he now oversees the HR & Administration, and FPO promotion at Mahashakti Foundation, contributing his knowledge and skills to our team’s mission. Mr. Rath has pursued MBA in HR from Sikkim Manipal University.
Ms. Manasi Mohanty, Project Manager
Ms. Manasi Mohanty, an agriculture graduate from Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, brings a rich background in rural development and agricultural management to our team. With a foundation in grassroots experience and rural agricultural work, including a stint with the government initiative ‘Krushi Unnat Sahjogi,’ she possesses a deep understanding of connecting farmers with government schemes and new technologies. Her academic pursuits led her to earn an MBA in Rural Management from KIIT University, during which she completed internships in organizations such as Kalamandir (Jamshedpur), Krishidhan Seeds Pvt Ltd, and Bighaat Agro Pvt Ltd, honing her skills in capacity building, marketing, and digital marketing management. At Mahashakti, Ms. Mohanty serves as Project Manager of SAKHI, a women empowerment and livelihood project supported by Vedanta Limited, at Lanjigarh.
Mr.Chiranjibi Biswal, Manager IT
Mr. Biswal boasts a rich IT background with 7 years of experience in software and MIS development, having previously excelled in the core software and programming domains. Responsible for overseeing both hardware and software areas, Mr. Biswal plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the organization’s backend support systems to ensure seamless operations. His diverse responsibilities include website management, email subscription handling, system support, and overseeing MIS-related aspects across various projects and the head office. He has done MSc. in Computer Science from Utkal University, and has further fortified his expertise with certifications in AWS Machine Learning from Amazon and Hardware Networking Engineering from Lenovo India.
Mr. Ashutosh Pal , Agriculture Expert
Mr. Pal has joined as an Agriculture Expert in our Sampurna project, which is being implemented in Bargarh and Sambalpur districts. With a rich two-decade long experience, primarily dedicated to agricultural livelihood support services, precision agricultural practices, promotion of IGAs of WSHGs, and various other related development sector works. Mr. Pal is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Agricultural Statistics and holds a Master’s degree in Agri. Statistics from OUAT, Bhubaneswar. His expertise aligns perfectly with our thematic interventions across different projects, and we are confident that his contributions will significantly enhance the effectiveness of our project activities.