The Ample Missiion Awards of Inspiration 2025 gathered remarkable individuals whose lives exemplify bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to the nation. Established in 2014 by prominent philanthropist and industrialist Dr. Aneel Kashi Murarka, this initiative has become a unique platform over the past decade to honor India’s unsung heroes. This year’s ceremony, held at K.C. College, Churchgate, acknowledged a diverse group of achievers from various fields including defense, civic service, arts, environment, and public safety. Among the recipients was Capt. Pradeep Pattanaik, a Kargil War veteran recognized for his exceptional bravery during intense shelling, ensuring the welfare of soldiers and honoring martyrs. Dr. (Capt.) Kanta Mukherjee was honored for her medical support to heroes during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
Lt Col Manoj Kumar Sinha received accolades not only for his gallantry in battle but also for his ongoing efforts to inspire and guide the youth of India. From the Navy, Lt. Cdr Nidhi Taneja was celebrated for her accomplishments as a veteran, mountaineer, and trainer, encouraging young women to pursue service and adventure. Cdr Vijay Pratap Singh, a Kargil hero and defense technologist, contributed to the honors. From the Air Force, Group Captain Yogesh Pai, a distinguished pilot and mentor, alongside Flying Officer Itisha Chauhan, who managed critical air operations during Kargil and later took on leadership roles internationally, were acknowledged. Acts of exceptional bravery in domestic contexts were also recognized.
ASI Mangesh Naik was honored for his life-risking actions during the 26/11 terror attacks, playing a crucial role in capturing Ajmal Kasab alive, symbolizing steadfast duty. Naulesh Kumar from the Coast Guard was acknowledged for his courageous nighttime sea rescue, while Dy Cmt. Bhupender Singh was celebrated for preventing a potential maritime disaster through his quick thinking and bravery under pressure. The awards highlighted contributions beyond uniformed services, honoring citizens and changemakers. Renowned radio jockeys Devangana Chauhan and Salil Acharya were recognized for their significant contributions to radio and media, embodying the voice of modern broadcasting. Artist and cultural innovator Brinda Miller was acknowledged for her decades of work in art and leadership of the renowned Kala Ghoda Festival. Dr.
Udaykumar Shiroorkar, a lawyer and activist, received an award for his relentless advocacy for workers’ rights and community reform. Anita Patil, the first woman Field Director of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, was honored for her outstanding efforts in conservation and wildlife protection. Nazim Shaikh, known as Mumbai’s ‘Aquaman’, was celebrated for saving over 300 lives from drowning. Additionally, CISF officers SI Narendra Mohan Sharma, SI Razia Sultan, HC Amit Kumar, ASI Sarvin Kumar, HC Dinesh Kumar, and SI Chandra Shekhar Kumar from Mumbai Airport were recognized for their vigilance and integrity in ensuring safety and smooth operations for millions of passengers daily.
The event held special significance for college students from KC College, who attended and drew inspiration from the real-life heroes honored. Speaking during the event, Dr. Aneel Kashi Murarka remarked, ‘Each awardee has a story that illustrates heroism is about responsibility rather than recognition. Some have guarded our borders, others have saved lives, while many have preserved our culture and environment. Their honesty and selflessness shine through their commitments. Their journeys show that inspiration exists beyond books or cinema; it is found in real people who prioritize service.
Through Ample Missiion, we are privileged to celebrate these remarkable individuals whose stories will be cherished and remembered for generations.’ Ample Missiion has been a leader in social work for over 30 years, engaging in initiatives related to education, healthcare, cleanliness, environmental sustainability, road safety, support for marginalized communities, and the development of public utilities, crematoriums, and temples, consistently working to uplift society.