Padma Shri Hally War & Social Activist Prasad Agnihotri Conferred Social Work Excellence Award at USTM

 

   

Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya | 16 March 2026: The Department of Social Work, School of Social Sciences & Humanities, University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) observed World Social Work Day 2026 with the conferment of the Social Work Excellence Award to two distinguished social workers in recognition of their outstanding contributions to society.

 

The award was presented by the Hon’ble Chancellor of USTM Shri Mahbubul Hoque in presence of Prof Garima Kalita, Dean of the School of Social Sciences & Humanities, USTM, to Padma Shri Awardee Hally War, a renowned social worker from Meghalaya known for his decades-long commitment to community service, grassroots development, and humanitarian initiatives that have positively impacted numerous communities across the region. A Khasi farmer and environmentalist from Meghalaya, India, he was conferred one of the highest civilian awards, Padma Shri, in 2026 for his lifelong dedication to growing and preserving living root bridges.

The award was also conferred on Prasad Agnihotri, a dedicated social activist and Chairperson of Sanvedena Rugnseva Samiti, for his tireless work in the field of healthcare support and social service, particularly in assisting underprivileged patients and promoting compassionate community-driven welfare initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, both awardees shared their experiences and emphasised the importance of empathy, dedication, and collective action in addressing social challenges. They encouraged young social work students to actively engage with communities and uphold the values of humanity, service, and social justice.

The award ceremony by the Department of Social Work under the global theme “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society,” began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a welcome address. The keynote address was delivered by Pradeep Ramavath, who highlighted the crucial role of professional social work in building inclusive and harmonious societies.

About the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM): Established in 2011, the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) is the first state private university in the field of Science and Technology in North East India. The University was accredited with an ‘A Grade’ by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in its first cycle of assessment in 2021. USTM remains committed to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement, while promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and regional development.