Ri-Bhoi, (Meghalaya), March 17: The Department of Social Work, School of Social
Sciences & Humanities, University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM)
observed World Social Work Day 2026 with the conferment of the Social Work Excellence
Award to two distinguished social workers in recognition of their outstanding contributions
to society.
The award was presented by the Hon’ble Chancellor of USTM Shri Mahbubul Hoque in
presence of Prof Garima Kalita, Dean of the School of Social Sciences & Humanities,
USTM, to Padma Shri Awardee Hally War, a renowned social worker from Meghalaya
known for his decades-long commitment to community service, grassroots development, and
humanitarian initiatives that have positively impacted numerous communities across the
region.
A Khasi farmer and environmentalist from Meghalaya, India, he was conferred one of
the highest civilian awards, Padma Shri, in 2026 for his lifelong dedication to growing and
preserving living root bridges, according to a Press release.
The award was also conferred on Prasad Agnihotri, a dedicated social activist and
Chairperson of Sanvedena Rugnseva Samiti, for his tireless work in the field of healthcare
support and social service, particularly in assisting underprivileged patients and promoting
compassionate community-driven welfare initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, both awardees shared their experiences and emphasised the
importance of empathy, dedication, and collective action in addressing social challenges.
They encouraged young social work students to actively engage with communities and
uphold the values of humanity, service, and social justice.
The award ceremony by the Department of Social Work under the global theme “Co-
Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society,” began with
the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a welcome address. The keynote address was
delivered by Pradeep Ramavath, who highlighted the crucial role of professional social
work in building inclusive and harmonious societies.
About the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM): Established in 2011, the
University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) is the first state private university in the
field of Science and Technology in North East India. The University was accredited with an ‘A
Grade’ by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in its first cycle of assessment
in 2021. USTM remains committed to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and community
engagement, while promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and regional development.
