Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti Bestows Padma Vibhushan George Fernandes Memorial National Award-2025 Upon Justice N. Santosh Hegde
Udupi / Mumbai: The Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti (NGO) presented the Padma Vibhushan George Fernandes Memorial National Award-2025 to Justice N. Santosh Hegde, former Lokayukta of Karnataka and former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, at a ceremony held on Sunday, June 8th, at Hotel Ocean Pearl, Times Square Building, Kalsanka, Udupi. The event, marking the Samiti’s commitment to environmental and social progress, was presided over by Nityananda D. Kotian.
Justice Hegde, upon receiving the award, expressed his gratitude and reflected on his association with George Fernandes during the Emergency. “I was arguing on behalf of several politicians during the Emergency and at that time I got the opportunity to meet George Fernandes. Today I am proud to be given the award in the name of George Fernandes,” he stated. He also lauded the Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti, founded by Thonse Jayakrishna A. Shetty, for its impactful work in the region.
Hegde further commented on the societal changes he observed during his tenure as Lokayukta, noting the prevalence of injustice and the need for societal reform. He urged individuals to pursue lawful means of earning and to prioritize contentment over greed.
Thonse Jayakrishna A. Shetty, the founder of Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the organization’s dedication to both environmental protection and development. He drew parallels between Justice Hegde and George Fernandes, highlighting their shared integrity. Shetty also voiced concerns regarding the lack of development in Mangalore, despite its port status, and advocated for the organization of an International Investors’ Forum in the city. He also mentioned addressing power cut issues and advocating for the purification of the Netravati River. Furthermore, he stressed the Samiti’s commitment to fostering communal harmony and supporting industrial growth in the region.
Captain Ganesh Karnik, advisor to the committee, spoke about the values upheld by George Fernandes and praised the Samiti for recognizing individuals who embody those values. Multilingual film actor Suman Talwar Poojary acknowledged Thonse Jayakrishna A. Shetty’s contributions to his hometown despite residing elsewhere. State Coordinator K. P. Jagadish Adhikari conveyed his best wishes to Justice Hegde, while Adani Group Executive Director and Chairman Kishore Alva encouraged attendees to emulate the societal contributions of their elders, particularly George Fernandes.
Nityananda D. Kotian, President of Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti (NGO), highlighted the organization’s 25-year commitment to the development of the districts and the honor of presenting the award to Justice Hegde. He requested continued support for the Samiti’s initiatives. Udupi MP Kota Srinivas Poojary commended Justice Hegde’s integrity and positive influence on society.
Numerous dignitaries, including Karnataka MLC Ivan D’Souza, Samiti office bearers, advisors, and members, were present at the event. The vote of thanks was proposed by District Hon. Secretary G. T. Acharya.
The Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti (NGO) continues to champion environmental protection, social justice, and communal harmony, striving to build a better future for the region.
Report by Ishwar M. Ail, Pictures by Dinesh Kulal