Kamala Rising Stars 2.0 Awards Honour 42 Changemakers on PM Modi’s 75th Birthday

The ceremony recognized 42 exceptional individuals for their remarkable contributions to social transformation across diverse fields.

This year’s theme, “Dhruv Tara” (The Pole Star), symbolized unwavering guidance, moral clarity, and purposeful direction. Reflecting this ethos, the awardees represented sectors including education, journalism, social service, sports, entrepreneurship, art, environment, and technology, all acknowledged for their steadfast commitment to meaningful societal change.

Union Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, Shri Harsh Malhotra, served as the Chief Guest and described such initiatives as “beacons that inspire collective growth.” Smt. Savitri Thakur, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development, praised the Trust for promoting the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), aligning closely with the Prime Minister’s transformative agenda. Shri Swatantra Dev Singh, Cabinet Minister of Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the importance of self-discipline in character-building, a principle championed by the Trust.

HH Swami Chidanand Saraswati, President of Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, noted that a strong nation is built not only by taking but also by giving. Prof. Niranjan Kumar from the University of Delhi emphasized that the National Education Policy 2020 underlines the importance of values and character development, a mission resonating deeply with the Trust’s grassroots efforts. Shri Sajjan Yadav, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Finance, encouraged citizens to actively contribute to shaping a Viksit Bharat.

Trustee Smt. Nidarshana Gowani remarked that these awards go beyond mere recognition—they celebrate resilience, purpose, and the spirit of service that strengthens society. She reaffirmed the Trust’s dedication to nurturing changemakers whose leadership inspires collective progress.

Each awardee was recognized for visionary thinking, unwavering perseverance, and transformative leadership—qualities that have empowered communities and enhanced India’s global stature. Their accomplishments serve as a testament to how individual purpose-driven actions can ignite lasting social impact.

The ceremony concluded with a collective reminder: nation-building is driven not just by institutions but by individuals who lead with courage, serve with humility, and innovate with intention. The presence of government officials, media representatives, academicians, and civil society leaders lent the event both prestige and gravitas, celebrating the enduring spirit of societal progress.