‘Nagpur Heroes award motivates to do even better for our cause

Times of India: Nagpur: Tuesday, 03 March 2020.

Fighting against all odds, doing well for yourself and also contributing to society this is stuff heroes are made up of. And TOI Nagpur Heroes are no different. For the last few years, TOI has been highlighting stories of people who have gone beyond the brief and touched many lives.

As the nomination process for Nagpur Heroes 2020 is under way, a few former Heroes share what this recognition means to them.

According to Yashavant Kanetkar, a well-known author of computer language books, he got recognition from people after receiving the award. "It was good to know. It’s always good to recognize local talent otherwise people think that it is only outside Nagpur. That is not the case as there are good, educated and talented people in Nagpur too. That gives more encouragement to future aspirants," said Kanetkar.

For Dinesh Naidu, who takes up vxarious social issues using the power of RTI Act, the award holds a lot of importance as it is given to a select few who have done some outstanding work. "It is very prestigious award that TOI has started. It is valued by people even today. They remember me as a Nagpur Hero."

Naidu feels nominees must not be disheartened if they are unable to make the cut. "Getting nominated is itself an achievement. Anyone who is fighting for the cause of citizens and the city, and then nominated, is a hero for me," said Naidu.

People develop trust in the person who has received this award, feels environmentalist Kaustav Chatterjee. "When you are given an award by TOI, it is highly motivating. This award is given as a recognition. Also, it gives motivation to do even better for our cause."

Chatterjee added that the award process instills a lot of confidence. "The selection process is very transparent and I like that about Nagpur Heroes. My advice to the nominees is to do your work in a better way and be true to yourself," said Chatterjee.

Khushroo Poacha, who won the award for a blood donation helpline, said, "This award gave recognition to the work we are doing. And I would like to say to all those in the fray this year, that every nominee is a hero, irrespective whether you get the award or not."