BIPF invites applications for Shambhavi Puraskar 2026

Rajalin Samantaray

Bhubaneswar, Nov. 12: The Bansidhar and Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF) is inviting applications from individuals, groups of individuals, and organisations working in the social sector for the 13th Shambhavi Puraskar. The award includes a cash prize of Rs 5,00,000, a citation, and a trophy, while the Jury Commendation Certification carries a cash award of Rs 1,00,000 along with a citation.

The ‘Shambhavi Puraskar’ was instituted by BIPF in 2014 to encourage and inspire champions of social transformation who drive impactful change in communities at grassroots.  Over the last decade, through this award, BIPF has supported changemakers to widen their reach by exposing them to a wider network of social investors and organizations.

This year, BIPF has introduced a new focus on social innovation to encourage startups, entrepreneurs, students, NGOs, CSR professionals, and organizations that have devised unconventional, technology-driven solutions to address challenges in education, healthcare, livelihoods, water and sanitation, women’s empowerment, and advocacy for community well-being.

The selection is based on criteria such as the impact created, sustainability, community participation, scalability, innovation, and the number of beneficiaries. An independent jury panel comprising esteemed leaders from the government, academia, industry, media, and a representative from BIPF adjudicate the winners every year.

Interested applicants can find details and forms for the Shambhavi Puraskar on our website www.bipf.org. The last date of submission is November 30, 2025.