NEWS – Anil Pradhan Wins the Rohini Nayyar Prize

HIGHLIGHTS

About the Rohini Nayyar Prize

• Established in 2022 in memory of Dr. Rohini Nayyar, an esteemed economist, bureaucrat, and recipient of the Padma Shri.
• Awarded annually to individuals under 40 years who demonstrate outstanding contributions to rural development in India.
• Award Includes a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh, a citation, and a trophy.

Previous Recipients of the Rohini Nayyar Prize

• 2022: Sethrichem Sangtam from Nagaland for his work in rural development.
• 2023: Dinanath Rajput from Chhattisgarh, recognized for his contributions through Bhumgadi Mahila Krushak Producer Company Limited.

Anil Pradhan’s Contribution to STEM Education

• Founding of Young Tinker Foundation: Pradhan founded the Bhubaneswar-based organization to enhance STEM skills and foster innovation among school students.
• Reach and Impact: The foundation has impacted over 2.5 lakh students across Odisha, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.
• Future Goals: Plans to expand to Delhi with an aim of reaching 10 lakh students by 2026.
• NASA Rover Challenge Success: In 2021, Pradhan led a team of rural students from underserved communities to achieve a world rank of 3 at the NASA Rover Challenge.
• Origins and Growth: Pradhan started the foundation with three students in a small tin shed while still in college. The initiative quickly grew, enrolling 200 students within two years.

LEGACY OF DR. ROHINI NAYYAR

• Role in MGNREGA: As a former principal adviser at the Planning Commission, Dr. Nayyar conceptualized MGNREGA, a major initiative to support rural employment.
• Passing: Dr. Nayyar passed away in 2021 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy in Indian rural development and policy planning.