
Pune, February 3: “Even today, 110 million people in the country lack access to healthcare services. Dedicate your life to serving them. Vinoba Bhave once proclaimed ‘Jai Jagat’ (Victory to the World). Today, I experience the same sentiment when I see Dr. Vishwanath Karad’s work for world peace,” said social worker and SEARCH Foundation Director Dr. Abhay Bang.
He was speaking after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Bharat Asmita National Awards 2025 ceremony, organized by MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) and MIT School of Government in Pune. The event was presided over by the Founder-President of MIT-WPU, Vishwadharmi Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad.
The event was graced by renowned scientist Padma Vibhushan Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar and Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Chairman of the Board of Abu Dhabi School of Management, as chief guests.
Also present were MIT-WPU Executive President and Convenor of Bharat Asmita National Award Committee, Rahul Vishwanath Karad, Dr. Mangesh T. Karad, and Vice-Chancellor Dr. R.M. Chitnis.
Honoring Excellence in Various Fields
During the ceremony, the following distinguished individuals were honored:
Prof. Bharat Bhaskar, Director of IIM Ahmedabad, received the Bharat Asmita Acharya Shrestha Award (Best Teacher Award).
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist of WHO and Chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, received the Bharat Asmita Vigyan-Tantragyan Shrestha Award (Excellence in Science and Technology).
Vivek Agnihotri, renowned filmmaker, director, and writer, along with Shekhar Sen, acclaimed singer and composer, received the Bharat Asmita Jan-Jagran Shrestha Award (Excellence in Mass Awareness).
Each award consisted of a cash prize of ₹2.5 lakh, a certificate of honor, and a memento.
Honoring Dr. Vishwanath Karad
On the occasion of Founders’ Day, Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad was felicitated with a Ghungadi (traditional woolen shawl), a Tukaram Maharaj turban, a Citation of Honor, and a Veena by the distinguished guests.
Key Speeches at the Event
Dr. Abhay Bang said, “Today’s world is rushing toward materialism. However, witnessing the integration of science, spirituality, and the teachings of Swami Vivekananda here is truly inspiring. I dedicate this award to all the people of Gadchiroli.”
Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar stated, “We must take inspiration from all the awardees and commit ourselves to social service. The Bharat Asmita awardees are true role models for the youth. Young people should channel their energy into positive and meaningful work.”
Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad remarked, “By following the path shown by Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, we can prevent the world from heading towards destruction. The world’s largest dome here showcases Indian philosophy, traditions, and culture. Understanding the ultimate truth and the way to live life is essential.”
Dr. Rahul Karad emphasized, “The Bharat Asmita Awards bring national pride. In today’s era, youth must change their colonial mindset. The word ‘Bharat’ instills a sense of belonging, unlike ‘India’.”
Awardees’ Reflections
Prof. Bharat Bhaskar noted that according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the number of educational institutions must increase 16 times by 2047 to make India a developed nation.
Vivek Agnihotri emphasized, “Students here are crucial for India’s future. The saints depicted in this dome represent our soul.”
Padma Shri Shekhar Sen urged, “Every citizen must serve their motherland. Education should be pursued with the goal of national service.”
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s words: “Science and technology drive human progress. However, in today’s social media era, youth face many challenges.”
The event was hosted by Prof. Dr. Gautam Bapat, while Dr. Mangesh T. Karad delivered the vote of thanks.