The selection process for the 2023 Yeshwantrao Kelkar Youth Award, a joint initiative of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Vidyarthi Nidhi, has begun. This award, dedicated to the memory of Professor Yeshwant Rao Kelkar, the former National President of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and an architect of the modern structure of ABVP, is presented annually to individuals aged 40 or younger who have made significant contributions in various fields, including social work, education, science, and technology. This year, the award ceremony will take place during the proposed National Conference of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad in Delhi from December 7th to 10th. The Kelkar Youth Award includes a cash prize of one lakh rupees, a certificate of honor, and a memento. Applications for this award have been received from all over the country. This award, initiated in 1991, aims to recognize outstanding contributions in public service, education, sports, environment, technology, and social work.
Born on April 25, 1925, in the Pandharpur region of Solapur district in Maharashtra, Prof. Yeshwantrao Vasudev Kelkar displayed remarkable intelligence from a young age. From 1945 to 1952, he served as a pracharak in the Nashik and Solapur districts of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. In 1967-68, he held the position of the National President of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, significantly contributing to its expansion and organizational strengthening across India.
ABVP National General Secretary, Yagywalkya Shukla stated, “Prof. Yeshwantrao Kelkar’s work in empowering the youth of our nation has inspired a significant number of individuals across various fields. The scrutiny for the Prof. Yeshwantrao Kelkar Youth Award – 2023 has begun, with applications received from dedicated individuals in the fields of social service, education, environment, etc. The selection committee will soon choose the most deserving candidate for this prestigious award. The award will be presented to those youths who have made commendable contributions in fields such as social service, technology, sports, etc.”
