Utilizing philanthropy to positively impact the children of India is cited as the reason Pratham USA is this year's winner of the Times of India Social Impact Award in the category "International Contribution to India."

Pratham USA was represented at the ceremony by President, Dr. Atul Varadhachary. A former student, Mahima Maluja, who attended a Pratham pre-school in New Delhi presented the International Contribution to India Award to Mr. Varadhachary. The star-studded ceremony attended by the President of India as well as many other prominent leaders within the Indian community and the Indian Diaspora was held Monday, January 28, 2013 at the Convention Hall at The Ashok, in New Delhi, India.

"This award not only recognizes the efforts of Pratham USA, but most importantly, it recognizes the continued generosity of our donors, both large and small," says Arvind Sanger, Chairman of the Board of Directors Pratham USA. "Every donor to Pratham USA has a strong belief that education provides the foundation for individuals to raise themselves socially and economically. Our donors understand that they have succeeded because of education and they want their resources to support the children of India in their own path to success."

The International Contribution to India Award is given to an organization based outside India that makes significant contributions to address key challenges within India. Social issues of concern include poverty, lack of access to quality education, poor healthcare, social inequity, and limited employment opportunities among others.

In presenting the award, by the unanimous decision of its jury, the organizers recognize Pratham USA for the seminal role it has played in supporting the activities of Pratham in India.

"Pratham USA should serve as a model for many communities in the U.S. as they support global social and economic transformations," says Dr. Molly Easo Smith, Executive Director of Pratham USA. "The Indian American community understands the concept of organized and impact-focused philanthropy as a basis for significant social change globally."

Smith added that this is the first time Pratham USA has been recognized by a national organization in India for its fund-raising efforts within the United States.

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