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Star Sports wins National Award for redefining inclusivity in broadcasting!
MUMBAI: Why should feeling different ever mean being left out? In a world striving to embrace inclusivity, breaking biases and fostering equality isn’t just a moral obligation – it’s a celebration of humanity. Star Sports has shattered one of the most profound – the exclusion of differently-abled sports enthusiasts. In a groundbreaking leap towards inclusivity, India’s premier sports network has been recognised with the National Award for Institutions Engaged in Empowering Persons with Disabilities 2024. This honour, bestowed by the president of India, Droupadi Murmu, applauds a revolutionary initiative that has changed the game forever. With their sign language and descriptive commentary feed, Star Sports is not just broadcasting sports but building bridges, connecting Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and Visually Impaired fans to the electrifying pulse of live sports like never before.
Star Sports’ efforts to break communication barriers and expand access to live sports have been transformative. By addressing the needs of differently-abled fans, the network has set a benchmark in inclusive broadcasting, ensuring that no fan is left behind in the excitement of live sports.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, a Star Sports spokesperson said, “We are deeply honoured to receive this prestigious National Award. It reflects the dedication of our team to making sports accessible to all fans. Initiatives like the Sign Language and Descriptive Commentary Feed are integral to our mission of uniting sports lovers, regardless of their abilities. This award motivates us to continue innovating and ensuring inclusivity in sports broadcasting.”
Star Sports plans to expand its commitment to inclusivity by exploring new ways to enhance the sports-viewing experience for all audiences, reaffirming its role as a leader in the broadcasting industry.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
