We often encounter people on our streets who, despite being physically able, choose to beg for money day after day instead of seeking employment. They opt for the easier route of begging rather than pursuing meaningful work. In stark contrast, some limbless individuals defy their physical limitations, reaching for the sky without acknowledging their constraints. Prepare to meet an inspiring Indian hero who has excelled in academics and sports despite being limbless since childhood, bringing honor to India. He has also employed over 500 persons with disabilities (PwDs). This remarkable individual, KS Rajanna, was honored with Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian awards during the second civil investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi on May 9, 2024.
About Awards
Indian President Droupadi Murmu, at the second civil investiture ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi, has presented prestigious Padma Awards to exemplary individuals from across the country. The Padma Awards, among the highest civilian honors in the country, are bestowed in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These awards recognize outstanding contributions across diverse fields such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service. The awards are traditionally announced on Republic Day each year.
Who is K.S. Rajanna?
KS Rajanna hails from Mandya, Karnataka, India. In childhood, he lost his limbs to polio disease. He may have lost his limbs but never gave up on his dreams. The resilient child went on to pursue a diploma in mechanical engineering. Driven by a passion to do something for society, for physically challenged people like him. Following his entry into social service, KS Rajanna dedicated himself tirelessly to the cause. In 2013, the government of Karnataka appointed him as the State Commissioner for the Disabled. Rajanna, a Bengaluru resident, served in this role for three years.
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KS Rajanna
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He also excelled in sports; his notable successes include winning the gold medal in discus throw at the 2002 Paralympics and a silver medal in swimming. Furthermore, he established his own enterprise, employing over 500 individuals, including those with physical disabilities.
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During the Padama Award distribution ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Shri Award on K. S. Rajanna, a 64-year-old recipient recognized for his outstanding contributions to social work. Rajanna, who lost his hands and legs due to polio at the age of 11 months, received the award in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and other dignitaries.
What He Aspires?
KS Rajanna expresses happiness over receiving the award and says "As a native of Mandya district, receiving this award is as sweet as eating sugar for me. However, I see this award not just as an honor, but as a tool to further my social work. There are no political reservations for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), and I hope that this award motivates the State and Union governments to appoint a PwD as a member of the legislative council or the Rajya Sabha. We do not seek sympathy; rather, we aspire for the opportunity to exercise our rights,"
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KS Rajanna
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