Instituted in memory of Dr. Rama Saharia – a prominent educationist, thinker and writer, these Awards aim to recognize and acknowledge outstanding women for their contribution to society. These awards are an initiative of MBKM Foundation - A New Delhi-based not-for-profit organization that works for the upliftment of the poor and the promotion of girls and young women who have come up in life after struggle and hard work.
The idea of Awards
When Dr Rama expired in February last there was a suggestion from her former colleagues, students, and admiring young relations to do something remarkable to perpetuate her memory. Various options like giving scholarships, funding NGOs working for destitute children and outright grants to an NGO were considered. However, it was felt that such activities would not create a broader impact and motivate society on the right lines. It was, therefore, decided to award women who have come up with hard work and struggle braving an unhelpful environment.
Nature of Awards
The Foundation decided to identify and select for awards young and promising women from the areas of the college teaching, media writing, social work and fine art or socially useful skills. It was decided to pick up the awards winners from modest socio-economic backgrounds who have struggled hard to come up in life.
The Foundation feels that it should promote, encourage and award girls and young women professionals who have or are trying to come up in life after hard work and struggle against unfavourable socio-economic conditions of family and student life.
The five-member selection committee of the foundation has been of the view that the idea was not to select the best and most competent candidates. It was to select those who have a socially committed disposition, a humane approach and a vision for an inclusive growth of society based on the concept of Antodaya as propounded by Mahatma Gandhi, father of our nation.
Kindly Note:
Applicants must be:
1. Indian Nationals
2. Women and Girls
3. Applicants must amply demonstrate their commitment and achievements in the domain in which they have applied.
After the application window closes, the jury will review and shortlist all applications based on merit and needs. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a virtual interview conducted through Google Meet/Zoom/Microsoft Teams, and the final selection will be done based on the applicants’ performance.
Award Categories
CATEGORY – A : HIGHER EDUCATION
CATEGORY - B : Media Writing / Videography / Creative Writing
CATEGORY - C : Social Work in area of Women Empowerment and Child Rights
CATEGORY - D: Performing and Fine Arts , Soft skills
Dr Rama Saharia Memorial Award winners will be given a certificate of appreciation, a memento and a cash prize
