Prof. Yashwantrao Kelkar Youth Award 2023 Honors Visionaries Transforming Education and Social Impact in India

The selection committee for Prof. Yashwantrao Kelkar Youth Award 2023 has chosen Sharad Vivek Sagar from Bihar, Lahari Bai Padiya from Madhya Pradesh, and Vaibhav Bhandari from Rajasthan for their outstanding work in the fields of education, society, environment, and science.

The committee highlighted the theme for this year’s award as “Empowering economically disadvantaged Indian youth to achieve global education.” Sharad Vivek Sagar was selected for his fundamental work in the conservation and development of millets, Lahari Bai Padiya for her efforts in protecting and promoting millet varieties, and Dr. Vaibhav Bhandari for enhancing the quality of life and self-confidence of people with disabilities.

As the All India Students’ Council celebrates its ‘Amrit Mahotsav Year’ (75th year), the committee has decided to honor three individuals this year to make the occasion extensive and unforgettable. Normally, the award is given to one person each year. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place during the 69th National Convention in Delhi from December 7-10.

The Prof. Yashwantrao Kelkar Youth Award, initiated in 1991 in memory of Prof. Yashwantrao Kelkar, recognizes individuals for their significant contributions to student welfare and educational development.

The purpose of the award is to illuminate the work of young social changemakers, encourage them, express gratitude from the youth towards such social entrepreneurs, and inspire young Indians for service. The award includes a cash prize of ₹1,00,000/-, a certificate, and a commemorative symbol.

Selected for the Prof. Yashwantrao Kelkar Youth Award 2023, Sharad Vivek Sagar, originally from the small village of Jiradei in Bihar, founded ‘Dexterity Global’ in 2008, aiming to empower the youth through educational opportunities and training, resolving various educational issues. Lahari Bai Padiya, selected for her work in millet conservation, owns a bank of 150 rare nutritious millet seeds and has been appointed as a ‘Millets Ambassador.’ Dr. Vaibhav Bhandari, chosen for his outstanding work in improving the lifestyle of people with disabilities, holds a Ph.D. in education methodology and has demonstrated unwavering determination in promoting social change.

The National President of Abhivyakti Parishad, Prof. Rajsharan Shahi, National General Secretary Sri Yajnavalkya Shukla, National Organizing Secretary Shri Ashish Chouhan, and Selection Committee Coordinator Prof. Milind Marathe congratulated the winners of the Prof. Yashwantrao Kelkar Youth Award 2023 and wished them success in their future endeavors.