In a remarkable acknowledgment of his exceptional contributions, the Socially Point Foundation recently unveiled the recipient of the esteemed Pride of India award as Mr. Sandeep Harishchandra Thakre. Hailing from the quaint village of Gargaon in the Palghar district, Mr. Thakre has emerged as a beacon of transformative change through his unwavering dedication to the advancement of tribal communities across Thane, Wada, and Palghar.
Having earned a master’s degree in social work, Mr. Thakre has wholeheartedly committed his life to the betterment of marginalized communities. His extensive endeavors in the domains of health and education stand as a testament to his indomitable spirit. Notably, he has emerged as a guiding light and staunch advocate for women’s empowerment, firmly asserting that the progression of society hinges upon the upliftment of women. Throughout his life, he has ardently championed women’s education.
Mr. Thakre’s advocacy extends to women’s health, where he has tirelessly encouraged women within his community to seek medical assistance. His emphasis on proper nutrition during pregnancy and his unwavering determination to diminish maternal and neonatal mortality rates highlight his dedication. Funding for his noble initiatives primarily derives from the Bhagwan Dada Trust, supplemented at times by personal contributions to sustain his noble journey.
His journey has brought him face-to-face with various societal challenges such as adolescent pregnancy, runaway girls, addiction issues, and instances of despair. With an inherent blend of patience and compassion, Thakre adeptly addresses these issues. He has become a renowned community counselor, a steady pillar of support during testing times.
Beyond his interactions with people, Mr. Thakre shares an intimate connection with nature, consistently advocating for its preservation and service. He has actively engaged in tackling issues like water conservation in the rural regions of Wada and Palghar. Demonstrating unwavering courage, he has fearlessly scaled mountains to combat forest fires, showcasing the heart of a true hero.
In his journey, Mr. Thakre has encountered detractors and naysayers in society, individuals whose intentions are to obstruct his work. When questioned about these challenges, Thakre responds with a serene smile, explaining that such individuals are akin to his brothers, energizing him to intensify his efforts for the cause at hand.
A crowning achievement in his career was his hunger strike following the collapse of the Gargaon bridge. His resolute determination and unwavering commitment to assisting his community ultimately compelled authorities to take action and rebuild the bridge. The outpouring of community support and affection he received is a testament to the fact that genuine intentions and impactful deeds forge a path to becoming an esteemed and respected community leader.
Let us extend our heartfelt admiration to the exceptional contributions of this silent yet immensely impactful leader. May his future endeavors continue to shine as brightly as his past achievements.
