Top Indian award for Bangladeshi social worker

By Mizan Rahman/Dhaka

On the occasion of India’s 64th Republic Day yesterday, the Indian government honoured noted social worker of Bangladesh, Jharna Dhara Chowdhury, with Padma Shri Award.

The award has been given in recognition of her distinguished service in the field of social work.

Jharna is the secretary of the Gandhi Ashram Trust in Noakhali district of Bangladesh.

The award is a recognition of Jharna’s longstanding and selfless service to the people of Bangladesh, in particular to the Noakhali region.

The Padma Shri Award, India’s highest civilian award, is conferred every year in January to recognise contribution in various disciplines and fields of activities. Only a few of the awards are given to foreign nationals.

The award will be conferred on her by the India’s president at a ceremony in New Delhi, in March.

Jharna and her sister started a school in her village for underprivileged children when she was 17 years old.

Later, Jharna opened schools in Dhaka, Chittagong, Comilla and many other parts of Bangladesh. Like many Gandhian followers, she stayed single to focus on her work.

After spending many years working in various social organisations, Jharna finally joined the Gandhi Ashram Trust. It was established in the village of Jayag.