Entries open for awards for social changemakers

Social innovators across India can now apply for the third edition of Rashtriya Swayamsiddh Samman awards, which plans to honour 20 exemplary changemakers (10 individuals and 10 organisations) for their societal achievements.

Given out annually by the JSPL Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL), the annual award carries an honorarium of Rs 1 lakh.

It is presented in 10 categories: agriculture/rural development, environment, education, innovation/technology, art and culture, entrepreneurship and livelihood, health, sports, women empowerment and public/social services.

At least three years of dedicated service at the grassroots level, high level of impact, and potential for replication are some of the award's parameters.

"During the last two editions of Samman, we found several persons and organisations making excellent contributions to social development in spite of several hardships. The third edition is an attempt to continue to identify and honour more such individuals and organisations from the grassroots, who rarely receive recognition for their societal contributions," JSPL Foundation President Shallu Jindal said in a statement.

Applications and nominations can be filed online till February 28 at www.jsplfoundation.co.in , which also has more details on the parameters.