| Staff reporter |
Itanagar, Jan 25: Noted social worker from Arunachal Pradesh, Jumde Yomgam Gamlin has been selected for the prestigious Padma Shri Award in the field of social work for her commendable efforts in drug de-addiction and social reform for the local communities in West Siang district.
Gamlin would be one among 23 women awardees of the total of 113 Padma Shri Awards announced on the eve of the Republic Day 2025, on Saturday.
Padma Awards - one of the highest civilian awards of the country, are conferred in three categories - Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. The Awards are given in various disciplines/ fields of activities, viz. art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.
These Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/April every year. This year’s list comprises 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri Awards.
‘Honest efforts never go unnoticed’
PTI adds: Social worker Jumde Yomgam Gamlin, who has been awarded Padma Shri this year, said honest efforts never go unnoticed and would eventually be rewarded.
Expressing her gratitude, Gamlin said, “I feel elated to receive the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award. I thank the state government and the Centre for recognising my work.”
“Good and honest efforts never go unnoticed and will eventually be rewarded. To be a social worker, one must have dedication and commitment,” she told PTI from Aalo over the phone.
Gamlin, the chairperson of NGO -Mother’s Vision - based at Aalo in West Siang district, was also the recipient of the Bharat Vibhushan Puraskar in November 2024.
With over 10 years of experience in social work, she has previously been recognised with a State award as well.
In addition to her social work, Gamlin serves as a Zilla Parishad Member for Yomcha in the district.
The Mother’s Vision, established in 2013, started fighting against drug addiction and alcoholism. The NGO later began conducting awareness campaigns, workshops, counselling sessions, and outreach activities.
Starting in Aalo town, its initiatives gradually expanded to nearby villages and schools across West Siang and other districts.
A turning point for the NGO came in 2014, when Kennedy Bagra, a recovering addict, joined the team. His firsthand experiences helped the organisation design targeted campaigns and effectively identify vulnerable groups, Gamlin said.
“Our NGO has so far treated more than 700 addicts,” she proudly stated.
Gamlin’s relentless efforts and leadership have made the NGO a beacon of hope in the fight against addiction in Arunachal Pradesh.