LSG Charitable Trust

Marking its Diamond Jubilee and sixty years of devoted service, the Ladies Study Group, under the leadership of President Ms Enu Johal Bala, hosted its prestigious Charitable Trust Annual Award Ceremony 2026 on the evocative theme "Legacy & Leadership." The occasion stood as a graceful tribute to institutions and individuals whose steadfast commitment has left an enduring imprint on society, while also reflecting the organisation's own remarkable journey of compassion, service and social responsibility.

The ceremony opened with a deeply moving inclusive dance presentation, "Breaking Barriers," choreographed by the celebrated Manipuri exponent Priti Patel and performed alongside students from the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy IICP. The performance was both artistic and symbolic, beautifully embodying the ideals of inclusion, resilience and empowerment, while also honouring the long and meaningful association between IICP and the Ladies Study Group.

A central highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Ladies Study Group Charitable Trust Annual Award 2026 to Autism Society West Bengal, in recognition of its exceptional work in empowering individuals on the autism spectrum and supporting their families. The award was received by Indrani Basu, Founder and Director of the organisation. Since its establishment in 2002, Autism Society West Bengal has been a tireless advocate for inclusive education, therapy, vocational training and awareness, transforming lives through a compassionate and community-based approach that has brought dignity, opportunity and hope to countless families.

The ceremony also paid tribute to the distinguished Board of Jurors whose discerning judgment upheld the integrity and prestige of an award that has, since 1975, honoured exemplary charitable organisations for their outstanding contribution to society. Their role reaffirmed the seriousness and credibility of the recognition, which continues to celebrate excellence in service and philanthropy.

In keeping with its enduring commitment to social welfare, the Ladies Study Group also reflected on its philanthropic work over the past year, including donations of approximately ₹25 lakh to organisations engaged in women's empowerment, education, healthcare, skill development and community welfare. The programme further reaffirmed its support for deserving nursing students through the Shanti Khaitan Award, which provides financial assistance to underprivileged young women pursuing nursing education and building futures of independence and service.

The event was graced by Smt Diya Kumari, Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, whose distinguished public life, dedication to heritage conservation and commitment to women's empowerment resonated deeply with the spirit of the evening. She was joined by Jaiveer Johal, noted entrepreneur, art patron and philanthropist, whose work in promoting Indian art, traditional craftsmanship and sustainable enterprise has earned wide respect.

Their conversation on stage added intellectual depth and warmth to the celebration. Mr Johal posed thoughtful questions to Smt Diya Kumari about her decision to enter politics despite her earlier commitments to schools and charitable work, and about the ways in which she has identified women with varied skills, trained them, opened centres for them and connected them to markets. He also asked how original craft traditions might be preserved, how such initiatives could be expanded through collaboration between the private sector and government, and how Rajasthan might further strengthen its tourism potential. In response, she spoke of the development of the Shekhawati region, the importance of connectivity and hospitality across different parts of Rajasthan, and her vision of encouraging tourists to remain longer and experience the state more fully.

The evening continued with questions from the audience, offering further insight into Smt Diya Kumari's work and outlook. She spoke about her involvement with Modi ji's Catch the Rain initiative and fondly reflected on the close and affectionate working relationship she shares with her children through the foundation, describing their efforts as a family endeavour rooted in shared purpose and service.

The 2026 Charitable Trust Annual Award Ceremony thus emerged as a fitting and elegant celebration of the Ladies Study Group's six-decade legacy of compassion, leadership and service. It reaffirmed the organisation's unwavering commitment to recognising excellence, empowering communities and inspiring meaningful social change. The evening concluded with Vice President Ms Ritu Almal expressing heartfelt gratitude to the chief guest Smt Diya Kumari and Mr Jaiveer Johal for their extraordinary and enriching conversation, after which Ms Preeti Goenka was invited on stage to present tokens of appreciation.