Dr. Prajakta Girish Kulkarni (Ahilyanagar) and Jeevan Anand Sanstha (Sindhudurg) Honored as This Year’s Recipients

Pune: In memory of the renowned social worker and “Mother of Orphans,” Padma Shri Dr. Sindhutai Sapkal, the “Padma Shri Dr. Sindhutai Sapkal Yashodamai National Award” is conferred annually to recognize remarkable contributions in the social sector, both individually and institutionally. This year marks the third edition of the award, which will honor Dr. Prajakta Girish Kulkarni (Ahilyanagar) and Jeevan Anand Sanstha (Sindhudurg).

The award ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 5 PM at Bal Gandharva Rangmandir, Pune. The event will be presided over by Hon’ble Justice Shivkumar Dige of the Mumbai High Court. The Chief Guests for the occasion will be Hon’ble Shri Krishna Prakash (Maharashtra Police Chief, Force One, Mumbai) and Hon’ble Shri Ravi Nagarkar (Managing Director, Kalyani Technoforge Ltd., Pune).

The award includes a citation, memento, shawl, coconut, and a cash prize of ₹51,000.

Dr. Prajakta Girish Kulkarni (Director, Snehankur Adoption Resource Center, Ahilyanagar) has been tirelessly working for the rehabilitation of orphaned children and securing justice for underage mothers for the past 22 years. Her relentless efforts have provided new hope to orphaned children and marginalized women.

Jeevan Anand Sanstha, Sindhudurg, has been supporting destitute, elderly, homeless, and mentally ill individuals since 2013. Under the leadership of founder Shri Sandeep Parab, the organization has become a pillar of support for the needy through food, clothing, shelter, and medical assistance.

Speaking about the award, Mamata Sindhutai Sapkal, Chairperson of Saptasindhu and daughter of Sindhutai Sapkal, said, “This award was initiated to inspire the spirit of social service through Mai’s exemplary life and to carry forward her legacy. Honoring individuals and organizations who sincerely work at the grassroots level is the true tribute to Mai’s efforts. This award will energize them and motivate them to dedicate themselves further to society. The names were finalized after deliberations among myself, Shri Deepakdada Gaikwad, and Vinay Sindhutai Sapkal.”

Elaborating on her commitment to Mai’s legacy, Mamata Sindhutai Sapkal shared, “Institutions like Mamata Bal Sadan (Saswad), Sanmati Bal Niketan (Manjri), Manashanti Chhatralaya (Shirur), and Savitribai Phule Hostel (Chikhaldara) continue to carry forward her work, providing education to nearly 310 children. Additionally, the Gopika Cow Protection Center in Wardha shelters 218 abandoned cows. We remain committed to expanding the inspiring legacy of Mai’s sacrifice and dedication.”

She urged everyone to attend the event and be part of this celebration of service.