PADMA SAMVAAD: Conversations with Grassroots Changemakers
What can young people learn from those who have spent decades creating change on the ground?
Padma Samvaad brings students at IIT Delhi into direct conversation with distinguished grassroots changemakers. Through their journeys, challenges, and experiences, the Samvaad will explore how communities solve real problems, how lasting social change is built, and how young people can use their knowledge and capabilities to contribute to nation-building.
The Samvaad brings together three Padma Shri awardees whose work spans water and forest conservation, women’s empowerment, rural development, and community-led action.
We are also honored to have Dr. Joram Aniya Ji, Hon’ble Member, NITI Aayog, as the Chief Guest for the Samvaad.
Speakers
Padma Shri Chaitram Pawar Ji
A grassroots leader who has spent decades working with tribal communities on forest conservation, water security, and sustainable village development. His journey shows how communities can become owners, rather than just beneficiaries, of development.
Padma Shri Phoolbasan Bai Yadav Ji
A grassroots leader who mobilized women through self-help groups to strengthen livelihoods, dignity, and social participation. Her journey demonstrates how collective action can grow into a powerful movement for social change.
Padma Shri Laxman Singh Ji
A water conservation pioneer known for community-led approaches to rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and ecological restoration. His work shows how simple, locally rooted innovations can address major development challenges.
Chief Guest
Dr. Joram Aniya Ji
Hon’ble Member, NITI Aayog
An academician and scholar of indigenous knowledge, language, and tribal communities, Dr. Aniya Ji brings an important perspective on how grassroots knowledge and lived community experiences can inform India’s larger development journey.
Event Details
Date: 4 September 2026
Time: 10:00 AM onwards
Venue: Centre for Rural Development and Technology (CRDT), IIT Delhi, New Delhi
The program will include reflections from the Padma Shri awardees, an interactive Samvaad, and direct engagement with students.
Presented by Youth for Seva, in collaboration with CRDT, IIT Delhi, with India House as Knowledge Partner.
