Business Standard Names Pratham "Social Enterprise of the Year"

Leading Indian publication Business Standard has named Pratham “Social Enterprise of the Year” as part of its 2016 Corporate Social Responsibility Awards. Forty non-governmental organizations were considered in this category based on parameters which included years of existence, governance and reporting, funds handled, beneficiary reach, theme and location.

According to Deep Joshi, co-founder of Pradan, and one of the six jury members deciding on the winners, Pratham was selected because of its impact: “They started in 1995, but even in 2017 they are very relevant in the journey. They continue to excel in what they are doing, taking it beyond what they have done in the past.” Executive Director of Pratham Bala Venkatachalam echoed this sentiment: “This award is a testament to the transformative work and impact Pratham has had on primary education in India.”

The Indian Government’s Corporate Social Responsibility Law of 2013 requires companies to spend 2% of their net profits on social development to encourage corporate philanthropy and set new norms around giving. Having perfected a low-cost model of educating kids that is replicable and scalable, Pratham ensures that contributions are maximized to impact more lives. In 2015-16, 5.7 million children were reached through Pratham programs.

Other awards included Social Entrepreneur of the Year, given to Sanjit “Bunker” Roy, founder of Barefoot College, and “Socially Aware Corporate of the Year,” which went to Axis Bank.

Read more about the award and a profile of Pratham over at Business Standard.