Shillong, Mar 16: 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 to Padma Shri Hally War and Prasad Agnihotri, a dedicated social activist and Chairperson of Sanvedena Rugnseva Samiti
War is 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. He was awarded the Padma Shri this year for his lifelong dedication to growing and preserving living root bridges.
The university bestowed the award to Agnihotri 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.
The award was presented by Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque in presence of Prof Garima Kalita, Dean of the School of Social Sciences & Humanities.
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 was held under the global theme, “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society”.
