Background

1947, freedom at midnight, a nation born. But this was also a time when education for tribals was unheard of.  Ratnasinh ji Mahida of Narmada district of Gujarat saw this niche to bring the tribals into mainstream society through education. From 1957 onwards, he founded Shri Bharuch Zilla Adivasi Seva Sangh, Rajpipla and worked tirelessly to establish 12 Ashramshalas, 12 Chatralayas, 5 schools, 2 Bal Vatikas, 1 old age home and 3 colleges, thereby creating opportunities for those who were otherwise either forgotten by the society or museumized by the powers of the day. His institutions provided free education and support to the underprivileged, ensuring dignity and opportunity for tribal children.

His efforts in education and community welfare opened doors that were previously shut for generations. Today, countless individuals owe their progress and empowerment to his tireless work.

Ratnasinh ji Mahida's  efforts were supported by the then His Highness of Rajpipla, Vijaysinh ji Gohil, who offered his four palaces to further his mission. Ratnasinh ji’s dedication and relentless work from 1957 onwards transformed countless lives and laid the foundation for tribal empowerment in this region.

Ratnasinh ji Mahida is the beacon of uplifting the tribal communities of Narmada through education and social welfare. As his proud grand-daughter, I wish to carry forward his legacy by instituting the “Ratnasinh ji Mahida Award”.