Renowned Indian social workers visit Oman

MUSCAT: Renowned Indian social activists, Dr. Prakash Baba Amte and Dr. Mandakini Amte, recently visited Oman, engaging in impactful discussions with the Indian community.

Hailing from Maharashtra, India, the couple's trip to Salalah and Muscat was organised by expatriates from the Vidarbha region, honouring their extraordinary contributions to social welfare and community service.

Dr. Prakash Baba Amte is the recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, the fourth highest civilian honour in India. Along with his wife, Dr. Mandakini Amte, the pair was jointly conferred the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2008.

The accolade recognised their collaborative efforts through the Lok Biradari Prakalp, a transformative initiative benefiting the Madia Gonds in Maharashtra, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh.

Dr. Prakash's visionary leadership, complemented by Dr. Mandakini's unwavering support, has touched countless lives, earning global acclaim for their compassionate endeavours.

During their stay in Oman, the Amte couple engaged in thought-provoking discussions with the Indian community, inspiring dialogue on philanthropy and collective action.

The legacy of Dr. Prakash Baba Amte's father, the late Baba Amte, looms large, his pioneering work in social activism, particularly in leprosy rehabilitation, serving as a guiding light for future generations.

Their meeting with Indian Ambassador Amit Narang at the Indian Embassy underscored their commitment to fostering cross-cultural connections and collaborative partnerships.

As ambassadors of compassion and change, the Amte couple continues to champion the values of empathy and inclusivity, leaving an indelible mark on communities worldwide.

Among the other honours Dr Prakash received are Lifetime Achievement Award from ICMR presented by Bill Gates in 2019, Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice (2014), and Godfrey Philips Lifetime Achievement Award (2009).

The Principality of Monaco brought out a postage stamp in honour of the life and work of Dr. Prakash and Mandakini in 1995. And in 2010, the couple were honoured with the Sheikh Hamdan International Award for Volunteers in Humanitarian Medical Services.