BHOPAL: In a heartfelt recognition of grassroots environmentalism, Madhya Pradesh’s Mohan Nagar has been selected for the prestigious Padma Shri award for 2026. The announcement came on the eve of Republic Day, spotlighting his decades-long dedication to environment and water conservation.
Speaking exclusively to media, Nagar expressed profound joy. ‘It feels incredible that my efforts in environmental protection are being honored this way,’ he said. He extended heartfelt thanks to the Central Government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, dedicating the award to Betul’s activists and tribal communities.
Nagar emphasized that this isn’t a personal milestone. ‘I dedicate it to Betul’s tribal groups and thousands of volunteers from the Ganga Avtaran campaign,’ he shared. This honor, he believes, will amplify messages of conservation and social service from Betul to the nation and beyond.
Hailing from a modest farmer’s family in a village, Nagar’s journey began with local schooling before moving to Ujjain. In Betul, through Vidya Bharati, he spearheaded awareness drives on education and ecology, awakening communities to sustainability.
Praising the Modi government, Nagar noted, ‘It uncovers unsung heroes who toil quietly without fanfare, inspiring others to follow suit.’ His own inspiration traces back to his grandfather, who cleaned rivers during village visits, instilling early values amid rural life’s challenges.
Nagar views such awards as motivators for selfless service. ‘PM Modi highlights these silent contributors in Mann Ki Baat, fueling national inspiration,’ he added. Energized, he vows to accelerate conservation across Madhya Pradesh’s 55,000 villages, intensifying water and environment protection drives.
This Padma Shri not only celebrates one man’s legacy but signals a broader call to action for sustainable living, proving that family-taught values can spark nationwide change.