Manipal:  Academy of General Education, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, MEMG and Manipal Media Network Ltd conducted “New Year Awards 2021” to honour eminent personalities of Udupi & Dakshin Kannada districts for their immense contributions to society, art and culture. The awards were conferred to four achievers who have contributed in their own ways in culture, literature and have even created awareness in this unprecedented situation.  The welcome address was made by Dr H S Ballal – Pro Chancellor & President, Academy of General Education, MAHE and the felicitation address was given by Lt Gen (Dr.) MD Venkatesh – Vice Chancellor, MAHE along with Mrs. Vasanti Pai – Trustee, MAHE Trust, Dr. Ranjan Pai – Registrar, Academy of General Education & Chairman, MEMG, Bengaluru & Mr. Sathish Pai – Manipal Media Network Ltd. & Vice President, Academy of General Education.

The winners of this year were; Dr. K S S Bhat, Consultant Cardiologist at Manipal Hospitals, Mrs.  Usha P Rai, Former President of Karnataka women Writers association, who has made huge contribution in the field of literature and paintings, Mr Abhaychandra Jain, Former Minister of State of Fisheries, youth services & sports who has worked for the upliftment of the needy and society irrespective of the political parties and Shri Balkur Krishna Yaaji, who has been a legend in Yakshagana for over 47 years. His contribution to the field of Yakshagana is much beyond mere performances.

Sharing his thoughts, Dr H S Ballal – Pro Chancellor, MAHE said, “ We are privileged and honoured to be hosting this great event to celebrate the contributions and remarkable achievements of the 4 awardees. My heartiest congratulations to all of them for their spirit and act of humanity. The current education system seeks new dimensions and new explorations. Humanities and liberal arts should gain some importance in education system.  Fortunately the New Education Policy of this year is ready for all these experiments. Maybe it’s because of all these achievers who have created a benchmark in the field of humanity and arts.  We feel delighted and honoured to recognise all your efforts and achievements on this stage.

 Speaking on the special occasion, Gen ( Dr.) MD Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE said, “This is indeed a great moment for us as we feel elated to honour these great achievers today. We appreciate their unmatched contribution in the field of art, literature, medical profession, culture and humanity. They have gone beyond their call of duty to set precedence for people to learn and imbibe good things in the society. These branches of art and literature are the best mode of reaching people to address the flaws of the society or to create awareness. The motive of honouring the achievers is not just to recognise their work and appreciate it, but to inspire the youth and set a milestone for them to achieve more. I would like to give my heartiest congratulations to all the four achievers who have made noteworthy contributions to our society and to mankind which will be cherished in years to come”

Expressing his happiness after receiving the award, K S S Bhat, Consultant Cardiologist at Manipal Hospitals said, “ I’m deeply honoured for this prestigious award.  The pandemic has changed over lives in many different ways. But we must learn our lessons and adopt a healthy lifestyle for better tomorrow. I had the good fortune of knowing Dr Ramdas Pai, during his Postgraduate work in AIIMS. During late 80’s, where I had the opportunity to assist Dr Ramdas Pai   in establishing Manipal Hospital, Bangalore (MHB). I recollect his advice: “Get the best equipment and contact best specialists” . I Started working in MHB in 1988 , where I still continue as Emeritus Consultant. I express my gratitude for bestowing me with this great recognition.”

Expressing her happiness, Mrs.  Usha P Rai said, “I thank the head of this award committee Dr H S Ballal for selecting me for this 2021 New Year Award, which has been conducted since 80 years jointly Academy of general education, Manipal Academy of Higher education, Manipal media network limited and MEMG International India private limited. This was so unexpected for me. I would like to remember that in the year 1973 my father Shri K Honnayya Shetty had also been awarded the same. I am extremely happy that I am receiving the same award after 48 years proving I am just following the way of my father.

Expressing his happiness after receiving the award, Mr Abhaychandra Jain, “Now that Manipal has grown to this extent where along with education Health care, Media and also the Banking system has been established by the most futuristic Dr TMA Pai. Manipal has been a synonym for Education. I am grateful to Academy of General Education, MAHE, Manipal Media Network Ltd and MEMG international India Pvt Ltd for jointly organising this function and considering me for this New Year Award Ceremony. Thanking you all heartily I humbly accept this award.”

Expressing his happiness after receiving the award, Shri Balkur Krishna Yaaji said, “Yakshagana is the symbol of the culture of our State. This is not only for entertainment but also helps in the psychological development of people. I am very grateful to have been recognized and honoured by the Academy of Higher Education Syndicate Bank and the Manipal Media Network for selecting me for the Award Ceremony of the Year 2021 by the Academy of General Education Manipal.