Bhubaneswar – – October 14, 2026 -- Dr. Achyuta Samanta, founder of KIIT and KISS, was unanimously elected the first President of the Indian UniSport Federation (IUSF) at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on Sunday. The Federation is recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
The IUSF aims to strengthen university sports, promote transparent governance and widen opportunities for young athletes nationwide. After his election, Samanta called on stakeholders to prepare Indian athletes for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in India and to work toward the Prime Minister's vision for sports development.
KIIT and KISS athletes won 21 medals at the 20th Asian Games
A total of 54 students from KIIT and KISS represented India at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The source describes a contingent of that size from a single Indian university as a significant achievement. The athletes won three gold, seven silver and 11 bronze medals.
Across the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and World University Games, 24 KIIT and KISS athletes have represented India. KIIT has served as India's nodal university for the World University Games since Napoli 2019.
Institutions run more than 30 sports facilities with integrated athlete support
Since 2004, Samanta has promoted sports and athlete support through KIIT and KISS. The institutions operate more than 30 sports facilities and provide professional coaching, sports science, nutrition, medical care and rehabilitation support.
One athlete from the institutions has received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, and 14 others have received the Arjuna Award.
Samanta pledges fair competition and accountable governance
As IUSF President, Samanta has emphasised fair competition, accountable governance and athlete-centred development. He thanked the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, universities and sports stakeholders for their support.
He previously served as President of the Volleyball Federation of India and currently heads the Odisha Volleyball Association. He is also associated with the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and has built relationships with FIFA, FIVB and FIDE. The FIVB has conferred its highest honour on him for promoting volleyball and chess.