Jamshedpur: On the 187th birth anniversary of Jamsetji Tata, Tata Motors CSR honoured social activist Tarun Kumar—famously known as the “Padman of Jharkhand”—and Keruadugri Panchayat Mukhiya Kanhu Murmu with the prestigious Alankar Award. Tata Motors Plant Head Anurag Chhariya presented the awards during a grand Founder’s Day ceremony at the Telco Recreation Club.
Celebrating Social Impact
The event recognized the awardees for their relentless dedication to social development. Before the ceremony, senior company officials met at the Tata Motors premises to discuss the winners’ specific social initiatives in detail.
Tarun Kumar: The Padman of Jharkhand
Tarun Kumar, founder of the Nishchay Foundation, has championed the welfare of children in Jharkhand’s remote villages for over 16 years. Despite working with limited resources, he leads high-impact campaigns focused on:
- Menstrual Hygiene: His pioneering work in this field earned him his “Padman” title.
- Gender Equality & Education: Empowering youth through grassroots awareness.
- Environmental Protection: Promoting sustainable practices in rural communities.
Kanhu Murmu: A Visionary Leader
Kanhu Murmu, the Mukhiya of Keruadugri Panchayat and president of the East Singhbhum Mukhiya Sangh, has transformed his tribal-dominated area into a model panchayat. His leadership highlights include:
- Grassroots Governance: Strengthening the local administrative structure through public engagement.
- PESA Act Training: Educating others at the Kolhan level to empower Gram Sabhas.
Choosing the Challenging Path
Both Kumar and Murmu share a unique bond: they famously declined financially secure government positions to pursue the demanding path of community service. Their selection for the Alankar Award highlights their years of commitment to rural development and social upliftment.
