Dr. Shruti More Bhardwaj of Kullu Receives Prestigious Sant Ishwar Award in New Delhi.
Shimla:
In a significant ceremony at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, Dr. Shruti More Bhardwaj from Kullu was honored with the esteemed “Sant Ishwar Award” on October 2nd, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. This prestigious accolade recognizes outstanding contributions to society across various fields, including art, literature, environment, health, and education.
The event celebrated 17 awardees, including renowned poet and social activist Kumar Vishwas, who received the “Sant Ishwar Special Award.” Dr. Bhardwaj was acknowledged for her groundbreaking work in early intervention and the disability sector, notably for launching India’s first mobile therapy van through the Sant Ishwar Foundation.
Dr. Bhardwaj’s inspiring journey began with a pivotal encounter with a disabled girl facing menstrual and disability challenges. This experience ignited her commitment to aiding underprivileged children and led her to establish the Sanfiya Foundation, which runs the Ash Child Development Center. Her innovative “Therapy on Wheels” initiative aims to reach underserved communities, with plans to expand services to Chamba and Lahaul.
The ceremony drew notable attendees, including Mahamandaleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. Minister Rijiju remarked on the need for media to highlight genuine societal contributions over social media influencers. Chief Minister Yadav celebrated India’s unique spirit of service.
Since its founding in 2015, the Sant Ishwar Foundation has honored over 120 individuals and organizations for their significant yet often unrecognized contributions to society. This year’s awards included various categories, distributing a total of Rs. 32 lakh in cash prizes.
A selection committee, featuring prominent figures such as RBI Director S. Gurumurthy and retired Chief Justice Pramod Kohli, was responsible for identifying exemplary service in the community.
