Yashraj Bharati Samman Gratitude Ceremony 2025 – Press Release

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"Honouring the Real Architects behind Grassroots Transformation "

14th April 2025, Monday: The Yashraj Bharati Samman Gratitude Ceremony 2025 is a tribute to the quiet changemakers of India-those who have transformed lives at the grassroots with compassion, courage, and unwavering dedication. Selected through a year-long, rigorous process, these individuals and organizations represent the true spirit of humanity in action.

The Samman was co-founded by the YBS Advisory Board and the Yashraj Research Foundation, under the leadership of Ms. Deepali Bhanushali, Chairperson. Its vision was developed by Mr. Dinesh Kumar Jain, Former Lokpal Member, Former Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, and Chair of the Advisory Board.

Other founding members include, Mr. Haseeb Drabu, economist and former Finance Minister of J&K; Mr. Jayesh Patel, Gandhian and trustee of Sabarmati Ashram; Mr. Om Porwal, financial consultant and Director of CFML; Mr. S. S. Mundra, Former Deputy Governor, RBI; Mr. Syed Raza Haider, filmmaker and President of SIKSHA; Mr. Ved Arya, founder of SRIJAN, RCRC coalition, and The Buddha Fellowship & Institute.

Together, they envisioned a national platform to honour selfless service, bold innovation, and ethical leadership.

The Gratitude Ceremony (आभार समारोह) will be held on 20th April 2025 at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, Mumbai, celebrating individuals who persist behind the scenes, building a better tomorrow.

The event will be presided over by Hon’ble Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra, as the Chief Guest. Guests of Honour include Shri Dilip Walse Patil, Former Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa of India.

Ms. Shweta Shelgaonkar will host the evening, which will also feature a classical Kathak performance by Ms. Sharvari Jamenis and her troupe.

This year’s Yashraj Bharati Samman recipients-soon to be announced-have made lasting contributions in healthcare, sustainable development, ethical governance, and social transformation. The ceremony will honour their extraordinary commitment to nation-building and the quiet power of selfless leadership.

Laureates Profile:

Category: Innovation in Healthcare

Innovators In Health (IIH):

Founded in 2010 by MIT alumnus Manish Bhardwaj, Innovators In Health (India) works in the heart of Bihar, focusing on revolutionising healthcare for the underserved, starting with the district of Samastipur. They began by addressing TB patient conditions, aiming to double case-finding rates, reduce neonatal mortality, and support maternal mental health. Through strategic partnerships with organisations like Nalanda Charitable Foundation and HCL Foundation, they introduced cutting-edge technologies like Ubox and 99 Dots, enhancing TB patient adherence. Despite hurdles and social norms, Innovators In Health persevered, strengthening their resolve and collaboration with the government. Their advocacy efforts influenced policies and expanded interventions, reshaping Bihar’s healthcare landscape. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3, they continue their mission to ensure healthy lives for all, leaving no patient behind. From humble beginnings to pioneering progress, Innovators In Health (India) inspires change and transforms lives across Bihar and beyond, epitomising the transformative power of grassroots initiatives.

Category: Transforming People’s Lives

Teach For India (TFI)

Since its inception in 2009, Teach For India (TFI), dedicates itself to reshaping the destinies of underprivileged children through education. Operating in the heart of Mumbai’s urban sprawl, TFI identifies and uplifts the most vulnerable, offering a lifeline amidst societal struggles and economic hardship. Understanding the systemic barriers to educational equity, TFI implements a comprehensive approach, combining classroom intervention with advocacy and systemic reform. Central to its mission is the Fellowship program, recruiting diverse individuals committed to empowering disadvantaged youth through rigorous training and mentorship. Beyond classrooms, TFI drives systemic change through partnerships and initiatives, with tangible impacts seen in improved academic outcomes and alumni engagement. As TFI charts its course for the future, its vision of empowering leaders and transforming lives remains steadfast, heralding a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Category: Ethical Governance

Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)

Amidst India’s bustling democracy, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) emerges as a stalwart advocate for transparency and accountability. Founded in 1999 by visionaries from IIM Ahmedabad, ADR’s genesis lies in a pivotal judicial moment when it filed a PIL with the Delhi High Court, leading to Supreme Court mandates for candidates’ information disclosure. Since then, ADR’s Election Watch initiative has epitomised meticulous scrutiny, empowering voters nationwide. Beyond elections, ADR’s vision extends to nurturing a political ecosystem grounded in integrity, evidenced by flagship projects like Mera Vote Mera Desh (MVMD) and Hum Badlenge Apna Bharat (HBAB). Leveraging technology through platforms like MyNeta, ADR democratises information access, ensuring citizens hold elected representatives accountable. The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) is actively engaged in collaborative efforts with international organisations and civil society groups to exchange best practices, conduct joint research, and promote global democratic standards. As ADR forges ahead, their mission remains resolute: cultivating a culture of transparency, essential for India’s democratic integrity.

A Movement of Gratitude dedicated to Grass-Roots Changemakers…

A Movement of Gratitude dedicated to Grass-Roots Changemakers…

A Movement of Gratitude dedicated to Grass-Roots Changemakers…

Yashraj Bharati Samman Gratitude Ceremony 2025 – Press Release