Kohima: The M S Swaminathan Research Foundation and JSW Foundation launched the Mahila Krishi Shakti Puraskar 2026. This national award recognizes women and institutions driving progress in agriculture, food systems, and ecological stewardship. Nominations opened August 14 and run until September 15.
The program targets women aged 18 and older alongside women-led organizations. Judges will evaluate entries across three categories: Seeds, Biodiversity and Indigenous Knowledge; Climate Resilience and Ecological Stewardship; and Nutrition Security and Rural Livelihoods. A special citation called the Bhoomi Jaa Rashtriya Samman will reward transformative leadership and technology design.
Winners get a trophy, a citation, and a cash prize between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 7 lakh. They also gain national exposure and professional networking opportunities. A distinguished jury oversees the selection process. The panel includes Jury Chair Dr. Renu Swarup, Dr. R A Mashelkar, T Nanda Kumar, Prof. Nitya Rao, Prof. Sanjay Zodpey, R Pavithra Kumar, and Mayfereen Ryntathiang.
Interested parties can submit self-nominations or applications via the MSSRF portal. The foundation stated the initiative aims to highlight the "knowledge, innovation, leadership and commitment of women contributing to India's agrarian and rural economy." For questions, reach the Award Secretariat at mahila.krishishakti@mssrf.res.in or call 044-22541229.
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