Wed Nov 06 19:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Odisha Social Worker Wins Rohini Nayyar Prize for Rural Development
**NEW DELHI, November 7, 2024:** Anil Pradhan, a 28-year-old social worker from Odisha, has been awarded the third Rohini Nayyar Prize for his exceptional contributions to rural development. The prize, established by the Rohini Nayyar Foundation in honor of the renowned economist, carries a cash award of ₹10 lakh, a citation, and a trophy.
Pradhan, an innovative engineer and educationist, was selected by a jury of academics and activists. Born in the village of Baral, Odisha, he moved to Bhopal for his education. He is known for his role as the chief designer of Asia’s first university rocket team, VSLV.
Speaking at the award ceremony, noted scientist Raghunath A. Mashelkar highlighted the significance of Dr. Nayyar’s work in evaluating multidimensional poverty in India and developing strategies to address it. Dr. Mashelkar also emphasized the vital role of education in rural development and the crucial part civil society plays in ensuring access to education in rural areas.
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