Telangana-based environmentalist M Karunakar Reddy has been selected as the recipient of the inaugural Jadav Payeng International Award, instituted by the Jyoti-Protap Education Trust in Assam’s Jorhat district. Reddy, who is known as the “Water Man of India,” will be honored for his exceptional efforts in environmental conservation and climate action.
Award Details and Presentation Ceremony
The Jadav Payeng International Award carries a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, a citation, and various other mementos. The award will be presented to Reddy in January 2025, with the ceremony scheduled to take place at Jyoti Protap Bidyalay in Teok, Jorhat.
Rituraj Phukan, a member of the 5-member selection committee, shared the news, emphasizing that this prestigious award aims to recognize individuals for their contributions to raising awareness about nature conservation. “The award will be given annually to a person of national and international repute,” Phukan stated.
Jadav Payeng International Award: A Tribute to Climate Action
The award is named after Padma Shri Jadav Payeng, widely known as the “Forest Man of India” for his tireless efforts in creating a 550-hectare forest in Assam’s Jorhat district. The award is established to honor individuals who have made significant strides in combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.
Protap Saikia, founder of the Jyoti-Protap Education Trust, announced the creation of the international award in Payeng’s honor. Saikia stated, “The first Jadav Payeng International Award will be given to M Karunakar Reddy.”
The Jyoti-Protap Education Trust, founded by businessman Protap Saikia, also operates Jyoti Protap Gyanmarg Bidyalay in Kaliapani, Teok, where it provides free education to economically disadvantaged students. This initiative reflects the trust’s commitment to fostering education alongside its environmental and social causes.
M Karunakar Reddy’s recognition underscores his extraordinary contributions to water conservation, disaster management, and environmental protection, further solidifying his legacy as a champion of India’s green initiatives.