Agriculturist Dada Lad and Acharya Bharatbhushandasji Honored with Pujaniya Shriguruji Award

The prestigious **Pujaniya Shriguruji Award** for 2024 will honor two prominent figures: agriculturist **Shrirang Devba Lad**, commonly known as Dada Lad, and **Acharya Shri Mahant Bharatbhushandasji Maharaj** of Varanasi. The award, presented annually by the **Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh** (RSS) through its **Jankalyan Samiti**, will be conferred during a ceremony scheduled for **February 14, 2024**, in **Pune**.

Acknowledging Contributions to Agriculture and Society

The **Pujaniya Shriguruji Award** commemorates the birth anniversary of **MS Golwalkar**, the RSS’s second Sarsanghchalak, also revered as **Shriguruji**. This year marks the **31st** anniversary of the award, with **Jankalyan Samiti’s** Karyavah **Rajan Gorhe** announcing the recipients during a press conference on **February 4**. The award includes a citation, a memento, and a cash prize of **₹100,000** (approximately **$1,200**). Dada Lad will receive the award in the **research category**, while Bharatbhushandasji Maharaj will be recognized in the **social awareness category**.

The award ceremony will feature **Dr. Abhay Firodia**, a renowned industrialist, as the chief guest, with **Dattatreya Hosabale**, the RSS Sarkaryavah, delivering the keynote address. The event is set to commence at **6 PM** at the SVC Auditorium, Symbiosis, Viman Nagar, Pune.

Significant Impact of Dada Lad’s Research

Dada Lad’s work has been influential in enhancing cotton production, particularly through his **Dada Lad Technology**. His research has garnered recognition from the **Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)**. In addition to cotton, he has focused on improving the cultivation and productivity of various crops, including jowar, wheat, soybean, and tur. A noteworthy aspect of his efforts involves promoting the indigenous **Lal Kandhari** breed of cows, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Acharya Bharatbhushandasji Maharaj has dedicated many years to combating social evils and raising awareness on societal issues. His initiatives have spanned multiple states, including **Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana,** and **Delhi**. Through his work, he has spread the teachings of **Sant Guru Ravidas**, aiming to unite communities and eliminate discrimination.

The **Jankalyan Samiti** has extended an invitation to the citizens of Pune to attend the awards ceremony and support the impactful work of Dada Lad and Acharya Bharatbhushandasji Maharaj. The organization’s Sahkaryavah, **Mukul Patgaonkar**, delivered the introductory address, with notable presence from **RSS Prant Prachar Pramukh** **Atul Agnihotri** and executive member **Vinayak Dambir**.

Jankalyan Samiti operates **seventeen** major service projects throughout Maharashtra, focusing on five vital areas: disaster management, health, education, development of **Purvanchal** communities, and the welfare of persons with disabilities. Their initiatives include hostel projects for Purvanchal residents in eight cities, hospitals, health guidance services, three blood centers, and a cerebral palsy development center, among others.

This year’s Pujaniya Shriguruji Award ceremony not only celebrates the outstanding contributions of Dada Lad and Acharya Bharatbhushandasji Maharaj but also highlights the vital work being done by the **Jankalyan Samiti** to uplift communities across the region.