INVC,,
The Vice-President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari presented the G. D. Birla International Awards in the presence of distinguished gathering at a function here today. Describing the awardees as role models and worth emulating, the Vice President applauded the Birla Academy of Art and Culture for instituting these awards and for recognizing the outstanding work of the awardees. This Award is a source of inspiration to those who make earnest efforts, benefiting masses with their contributions to Humanity, Rural Upliftment and associate themselves not only in preserving but also spreading the rich Cultural Heritage of India.
The Award for Humanism was given to Mrs. Zokhumi Vankung , an eminent social activist from North East who made significant contribution for the benefit of Spastic, handicapped children and empowerment of women by helping in creation of an institution called “Gilead Special School ” and working for betterment of those needing humanitarian assistance.
The Award for Preservation of India’s Cultural Heritage was conferred on Mr. P V Dhanjayans and Mrs. Shanta Dhanjayans, a famous couple known propagating Indian Dances and while maintaining their identity,collaborating them with International form of dances bring fresh wave of innovations.
In the category of Rural Upliftment, the Award was presented to Dr. Percy Barnevik, a Swedish National who after retirement from a MNC devoted his life and retirement funds in transforming the socio-economic environment in rural and remote areas of Distt. Kanchipuram in Tamilnadu and achieving the success, replicating in other part of India and world.
Smt. Sarala Birla, Chairperson of Birla Academy of Art & Culture which has instituted these Awards also appreciated and welcomed the contributions made to various segments of the society and invited all to join hands to make a better India.
