Bhubaneswar: AJSA India, a leading organization dedicated to addressing the root causes of extreme poverty through holistic, community-driven approaches to sustainable development, has been honored with the esteemed Mahatma Award.
The award recognizes AJSA’s exceptional contributions to Quality Education, Climate Action, and Sustainable Development, reflecting their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on India’s future.
The Mahatma Award ceremony, held in New Delhi, was attended by prominent dignitaries and influencers, including Lord Raj Loomba CBE, Member of the House of Lords, Rajashree Birla, Chairperson of Aditya Birla Centre of Rural Development.
A Special address was given by Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee, Granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi. Manoranjan Behera, Executive Director of AJSA, received the prestigious award on behalf of the organization.
It’s worth mentioning that- AJSA’s efforts extend beyond sustainability, encompassing economic growth, climate resilience, and reducing inequality through innovative science and technology. The organization has been at the forefront of incubating high-impact, low-cost initiatives, advising on policies and strategies, mobilizing multi-stakeholder networks, and raising awareness of the SDGs.
AJSA India is deeply rooted in Gandhian ideology, embodying the principles and values championed by Mahatma Gandhi such as community empowerment, non-violence, truthfulness, social justice, sustainability, self-reliance, and nonviolent resistance. Mahatma Award recognizes and celebrates individuals and organizations worldwide who are driving social change and leading the way toward a better, more sustainable world.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Mahatma Award on behalf of AJSA India. This recognition is a testament to the tireless efforts of our dedicated team, the unwavering support of our partners, and the resilience of the communities we serve. From our work in Quality Education and Climate Action to our initiatives in Sustainable Development, our mission has always been to create a positive and lasting impact. Together, we will continue to make strides towards a more inclusive and sustainable world, guided by the timeless principles of Mahatma Gandhi” said Manoranjan Behera, Executive Director of AJSA.
The Mahatma Award is a prestigious accolade that recognizes individuals and organizations worldwide for their outstanding contributions to social impact and sustainable development. The award honors those who uphold the timeless principles of Mahatma Gandhi and inspire positive change in areas ranging from sustainability to philanthropy, social responsibility, arts, education, literature, and more. It seeks to encourage others to follow the path of creating a better world for all.
Past recipients of the Mahatma Award include notable figures such as Ratan Tata, TATA Group, Azim Premji, Wipro, Harsh Mariwala, Marico, Shabana Azmi, Microsoft Philanthropies, Philips Health care, The NUDGE, BARCLAYS, INDIGO, Dabour, Spark Minda Foundation, Tech Mahindra Foundation, Lupin Foundation, Amazon, Sulabh International, Google Ad Grants, IBM Foundation, Twitter for Good, Microsoft Philanthropy, Vodafone Americas Foundation, Feeding America, and many more.