MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) on its Founder’s Day, while honouring the 85th birthday of Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, the guiding force behind the university’s establishment and growth, organized the Bharat Asmita National Award (BANA) ceremony on Jan 4. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society in fields such as social activism, healthcare, governance, and the arts.
This year’s Bharat Asmita National Award recipients included a distinguished group of individuals: Prof. Bharat Bhaskar, the director of IIM Ahmedabad; Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation and former Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization; Shri Vivek Agnihotri, a renowned film producer, director, and author; and Shri Shekhar Sen, a noted singer and musical composer, all of whom received recognition. Padma Shri Dr. Abhay Bang, a leading social activist and the director of the Search Foundation, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Kailash Kher, whose soulful melodies captivated the audience, added a festive spirit to the celebrations.
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson, M S Swaminathan Research Foundation and Former Chief Scientist, World Health Organization said, “Science without humanity is one of the seven social sins, as Gandhiji said, and it holds true even today. Knowledge is best used when shared—it multiplies a thousand times and benefits countless others. Science and technology can solve many pressing issues like climate change, pandemics, and malnutrition. It is essential for young people to focus on innovation, guided by their passion and a sense of responsibility. Let us use science wisely to create solutions for a better future.”
On the occasion, Rahul V. Karad, Managing Trustee and Executive President, MIT-WPU said, “Swami Vivekananda proclaimed long ago the unification of science and spirituality and how it can help create better human beings. He was a torchbearer of this vision and a symbol of world peace. We strive to communicate his message to the student community, emphasizing the importance of independent thinking. Each of us has our own thought process, and we must not blindly follow the West.
