Ahmedabad, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, honored three altruistic organizations and nine remarkable individuals for their significant contributions to society on Sunday.

The awards ceremony took place at the Sardar National Memorial in Ahmedabad.

During his speech, the Chief Minister remarked that in a world increasingly focused on wealth and self-interest, recognizing those who perceive the divine in every individual and devote their lives to selfless service is truly uplifting.

He highlighted that the principle of “Seva Parmo Dharma” is deeply embedded in India's Sanatan tradition and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought this essence to the grassroots level by prioritizing the welfare of the most marginalized.

The awardees exemplify this spirit and merit this acknowledgment, he stated.

Patel asserted that genuine service is about transcending self-interest and advocating for the common good. He noted that the true measure of wealth should not be based on position, money, or social status, but rather on an individual's contributions to society. He emphasized that selfless service is the cornerstone of a compassionate and humane civilization.

Praising a specific organization for its efforts in education, healthcare, and public awareness, the Chief Minister noted its innovative initiative of connecting the Fit India movement with women's health.

He commended the organization for its remarkable work in breast cancer awareness, screening, and early diagnosis, describing it as one of the pioneers in treating fitness as a form of donation. Such creative approaches, he remarked, set a strong example for others.

The Chief Minister also stressed the need for collaboration between the government and voluntary organizations to ensure that welfare initiatives effectively reach the most vulnerable. When service organizations work in tandem with the government, he emphasized, the impact of public policy is significantly amplified.

Reflecting on Gujarat’s enduring tradition of compassion and collective action during crises, Patel noted the state's leadership during disasters such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones, and the Covid-19 pandemic.

He urged citizens, service organizations, and social workers to collaborate with the government in realizing the vision for a harmonious, empathetic, and prosperous Gujarat, contributing to a developed India by 2047.

Justice Kalpesh Zaveri, former Chief Justice of the Odisha High Court and chairperson of the award selection committee, along with Bhagyesh Jha, head of the Gujarati Sahitya Akademi and committee member, also addressed the audience and congratulated the awardees.