DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, May 3
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Information Technology, and Science and Technology, Satish Sharma, on Sunday lauded the spirit of selfless service and called for a collective commitment to building a more compassionate and resilient society. He was addressing the gathering at the Unsung Everyday Heroes Awards 2026 for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, organised by The Art of Living Foundation, which aims to recognise individuals and institutions making quiet yet impactful contributions to society.
The event marked the beginning of what organisers described as an annual initiative dedicated to honouring grassroots changemakers and nurturing a culture rooted in service, empathy, and responsibility. The ceremony brought together a diverse audience, including social workers, volunteers, and awardees from across the region, reflecting the wide-ranging efforts being undertaken at the community level.
Among those present were Balwant Singh Mankotia and Shantmanu, along with several distinguished guests who applauded the efforts of individuals working silently for the betterment of society. The atmosphere of the event underscored the importance of recognising contributions that often remain outside the public spotlight but have a lasting impact on communities.
In his address, Satish Sharma emphasized that the true strength of any society lies not only in its policies and development programmes but also in the values and intent of its people. He observed that while government initiatives play a crucial role in development, meaningful and sustainable change begins with individuals who are guided by compassion and a sense of duty. He stressed that societal transformation cannot rely solely on institutional mechanisms but must be supported by a change in mindset and human values.
Highlighting pressing social concerns, the Minister drew attention to the growing challenge of drug abuse among the youth, describing it as one of the most serious threats facing the region. He pointed out that enforcement measures alone are insufficient to tackle the issue and called for a more holistic approach that includes awareness, value-based education, and active community participation. According to him, empowering young people with a sense of purpose and direction is key to addressing the problem effectively.
He further noted that initiatives promoting mental well-being, social harmony, and personal development are essential in today’s fast-changing world. In this context, he appreciated the efforts of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Art of Living Foundation for their sustained work in encouraging positive thinking, stress management, and community engagement. He said such programmes help guide young minds towards resilience and constructive action.
Speaking on the essence of selflessness, the Minister remarked that genuine service is not driven by recognition or reward but by compassion and a sense of responsibility towards others. He observed that in an era increasingly influenced by individualism and the pursuit of social validation, quiet acts of kindness and service carry even greater significance. These efforts, he said, form the backbone of a strong and cohesive society.
Reiterating the government’s priorities, Satish Sharma stated that empowering youth, promoting innovation, and strengthening community welfare remain central to ongoing development efforts. He highlighted the importance of sectors such as information technology and sports in creating opportunities for young people and fostering a spirit of discipline and excellence. He added that platforms like these awards not only recognise contributions but also inspire others, particularly the younger generation, to engage in meaningful social work.
The ceremony concluded with the felicitation of several unsung heroes whose dedication and commitment continue to inspire communities across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Their stories of perseverance and service stood as a reminder that impactful change often begins at the grassroots level, driven by individuals who work tirelessly for the greater good without seeking recognition.
