Media Release

Mumbai, Oct 4: It was a moment of immense pride and honour for the Ryan Group on October 1, as Dr Grace Pinto, managing director of the group, was bestowed with one of the nation’s prestigious accolades - Mahatma Award 2025 for Lifetime Achievement and Business Leadership for her immense contribution in education this creating huge social impact.

The prestigious award was presented to her by Dr Kiran Bedi, the first Indian woman IPS officer and former lieutenant governor of Puducherry, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. She was joined by the guest of honour, A Annamalai, director of the National Gandhi Museum, and Santosh Kumar Jha, CMD of Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. The grand award ceremony was held at the India International Centre, New Delhi, and was jointly organised by the Mahatma Foundation and the Aditya Birla Group.

The Mahatma Award recognises global impact leaders and changemakers — individuals and organisations committed to building a just, compassionate, and sustainable future. It celebrates excellence in sustainability, philanthropy, shared values, and corporate social responsibility across both public and private sectors. The award is an initiative by Gandhian and Indian lawyer Amit Sachdeva, supported by philanthropist Rajashree Birla, chairperson of the Aditya Birla Centre for Rural Development and Community Initiatives, as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's enduring legacy.

The event was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including:

• Dr Mallika Sarabhai – Renowned Indian classical dancer and social activist
• Sandeep Kumar Gupta – chairman & MD, GAIL India Ltd
• Vishad P Mafatlal – executive chairman, Navin Fluorine International & Mafatlal Group
• Prasanna Kumar Motupalli – chairperson & MD, NLC India
• Manish Patil – director, ONGC

Dr Grace Pinto was lauded for her unwavering dedication to the field of education, having empowered millions of students across India through quality education. Her visionary leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability were also recognised, especially her initiatives towards creating a greener, more sustainable future.

This award is a testament to Dr Pinto’s lifelong mission of nation-building through education and values-driven leadership.