By Our reporter
Shillong: Headmistress Jyoti Sroat School for the visually impaired, Bertha Dkhar who was awarded the Padmashri in 2010 has now been conferred with the CNN-IBN Real Heroes Award.
The award celebrates the undying spirit of ordinary people who have done extraordinary services and have expanded the realm of humanity. The awards will be given out on Saturday, 17th March 2012, in Mumbai.
The award includes a cash prize of Rupees five lakh. The letter sent to Bertha Dkhar by IBN Network 18 says, “Your exceptional support for the well being of others in our country, has contributed in numerous ways. We take this opportunity to thank you for your selfless contribution in reflecting the spirit of a true Indian…”
When contacted, Ms Dkhar said that this award has come at a time when the various special schools are having a bad time financially.
“Many of our teachers are leaving our schools since we are not able to pay them good salaries,” she said.
Stating that she fully understands that the money she would get from the award would not permanently solve the problem of the school, Dkhar said that it would definitely give some immediate respite to the financial problem which the schools are facing.
Replying to a query, she said that she was considered for the award after a member of the jury read an article of the work they are doing.
“This is not an award which recognizes the work of one particular individual. It is a recognition for the work which the organization is doing. It is also satisfying to be recognized and supported by people who do not know us,” Dkhar said. She however expresses her disappointment that the people who closer home do not recognize the work they are doing for children with special needs.