Rajya Sabha nominated member Sudha Murty on Thursday urged the government to recognise social innovators, saying that while technical breakthroughs earn awards and public praise, people who develop practical solutions to everyday problems often remain invisible.
Speaking during Zero Hour, she pointed out that inventions such as the idli grinder have transformed daily life, especially for women, yet their creators are rarely acknowledged. Murty also referenced global examples, including the Japanese inventor of the QR code, who chose not to patent it so it could be freely used worldwide. His decision, she said, contributed enormously to global economic activity and reflected the principle of bahujana hitaya, bahujana sukhaya — working for the welfare of many.
Murty noted that although the government offers numerous awards — from CSR honours to technology recognitions — none specifically celebrate social innovation. She urged the Centre to establish a separate category for such contributions so that social innovators receive the respect and visibility they deserve. Drawing from her own work in the social sector, she emphasised how similar awards she helped institute created meaningful impact.