Sudha Murty Calls for National Awards to Honour Social Innovators

Rajya Sabha nominated member Sudha Murty on Thursday urged the government to formally honour social innovators, saying that while technical achievements often receive applause, those who create simple, life changing solutions for everyday challenges remain overlooked.

Sudha Murty urges the government to honour social innovators, citing examples like the idli grinder and QR code inventor whose contributions transformed everyday life.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Murty emphasised that innovations such as the idli grinder have significantly transformed the lives of women across India, yet their creators rarely receive due recognition.

“When you do a technical innovation, you are respected for your achievements, you get an award, people clap, but when it comes to other achievements, people don't bother,” she said.

To underscore her point, Murty cited the example of the Japanese inventor of the QR code, who chose not to patent his innovation, enabling free global use and driving modern digital transactions.

“He said it should be made free… Our entire global economy is booming today because of such selfless vision. He did it for bahujana hitaya, bahujana sukhaya (the welfare and happiness of many),” she said.

Murty noted that while India has several award categories from CSR recognitions to technology honours there is no dedicated award line for social innovation, despite its far-reaching societal impact.

“I request the Government of India to initiate a new social innovation award line so that innovators are recognised and the whole society can benefit from their contributions,” she added.

Drawing from her own experience in the social sector, Murty said she had instituted similar awards in the past and witnessed how such recognition motivates individuals and drives meaningful change.