Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge Foundation (SRKKF), the philanthropic arm of Shree Ramkrishna Exports (SRK), marked the 20th edition of the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award on June 13, 2026 at the Sanjeev Kumar Auditorium in Surat, recognizing individuals for their contributions to humanitarian service and social leadership.
This year’s Santokbaa Humanitarian Award was presented to Padma Shri Dr. Gullapalli N. Rao, founder chair of LV Prasad Eye Institute, and Padma Shri Reema Nanavaty, Director of the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA). SRKKF also introduced the Santokbaa Social Entrepreneur Award, with Bollant Industries founder Srikanth Bolla becoming its inaugural recipient.
The event was attended by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh as Chief Guest, along with Union Minister of Jal Shakti C.R. Patil, Gujarat Deputy Chief Harsh Sanghavi and Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, among other dignitaries.
Established in 2006 by Govind Dholakia, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Shree Ramkrishna Exports and SRK Knowledge Foundation, the awards commemorate the values of compassion and service associated with Santokbaa. According to the organizers, recipients are selected through an independent jury comprising leaders from science, defence, law and entrepreneurship.
Speaking at the event, Govind Dholakia said, “My mother spent all her life in the small village of Dudhala in Gujarat, but her dream for all her children was not simply to succeed in life, but to make our lives meaningful through truth, love, and compassion. The values she instilled in us have ensured that her legacy continues to live on.”
Dr. Gullapalli N. Rao said, “The Santokbaa Humanitarian Award represents values that are deeply meaningful – empathy, service, and a commitment to improving lives. It is truly an honour to receive this recognition and accept it on behalf of the many individuals and institutions who have dedicated themselves to the cause of expanding access to quality eye care.”
Reema Nanavaty noted, “This recognition truly belongs to the millions of women whose resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire us every day.”
Accepting the inaugural Social Entrepreneur Award, Srikanth Bolla said, “Being the first person to win the Santokbaa Social Entrepreneur Award is special and a reminder of my belief that with the right opportunities, support, and determination, every individual can contribute meaningfully to society and create impact beyond themselves.”
Over the past two decades, the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award has recognized 19 humanitarian and social leaders, including Ratan Tata, the 14th Dalai Lama, Sudha Murty, Cyrus Poonawalla, Shiv Nadar, Kailash Satyarthi and others. The 2026 edition also marked the introduction of the new Social Entrepreneur Award category.
