The first ever M. G. Mehta Human Spirit Award was presented by Padma Vibhushan Shri Ratan Tata (Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons) to Padma Shri Ms. Arunima Sinha at a function organised by Ratna Nidhi Charitable Trust at Y. B. Chavan Auditorium, Mumbai on the occasion of World Disability Day on December 3. Ms. Sinha is the first female amputee to climb the Mount Everest, and the award is in recognition of her inspiring achievements in life against all odds.

The M.G. Mehta Human Spirit Award has been instituted in memory of Ratna Nidhi’s founder Late Mahendra G. Mehta. This award will be given to worthy differently abled persons who achieved something in their life showing indomitable spirit, courage and tenacity inspite of difficulties. It aims to honour and encourage individuals who have proved that their disability is not a barrier in achieving their dreams. RNCT’s Board of Trustees includes Asha M. Mehta, Rajiv M. Mehta and Prakash V. Mehta.

This year’s winner, Ms Sinha was a national level volleyball player whose life changed when she was pushed from a running train by thieves in 2011. As a result, one of her leg had to be amputated. For her amazing feat in climbing Mount Everest, she has been awarded Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award of India, in 2015.

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