New Delhi, August 21, 2026: The Jubilant Bhartia Foundation (JBF) and the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, a sister organisation of the World Economic Forum, today honoured Ms. Nidhi Pant, Co-Founder of Science For Society Techno Services Pvt. Ltd. (S4S Technologies), as the recipient of the 17th Social Entrepreneur of the Year (SEOY) Award India 2026.
The award ceremony was held in New Delhi in the distinguished presence of Shri N K Singh, Former Member, Rajya Sabha and Former Chairman, 15th Finance Commission, Government of India, who graced the event as Chief Guest.
Winner’s Impact
Ms. Nidhi Pant has been recognised for:
- Developing sustainable biotechnology solutions that convert waste into bio-based products and eco-friendly agricultural inputs.
- Establishing farm factories at the farmer’s field, enabling smallholder women farmers to adopt sustainable practices.
- Advancing circular economy approaches to waste management.
- Improving livelihoods and economic opportunities for rural communities.
Finalists – SEOY India 2026
- Dr. Neha Verma, Intelehealth (Maharashtra): Leveraging open-source, AI-enabled telemedicine infrastructure to expand access to healthcare.
- Nuneseno Chase, YouthNet (Nagaland): Driving youth-led development through education, livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability.
- Vinay Kumar Reddy Vadde, Sickle Innovations (Telangana): Building technology-led agricultural solutions to improve farm productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.
- Vineet Saraiwala, Atypical Advantage (Jharkhand): Creating inclusive livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities through a technology-enabled employment and skilling platform.
Shri N K Singh, Chief Guest: “This is an admirable venture to award, recognising the diversity of people who have made a difference in their lives, transcending barriers to create a wholesome society. These finalists are examples of unreasonable people who sought to change the world in multiple ways. My congratulations to all the finalists and gratitude to the foundation for nurturing this journey.”
Dr. François Bonnici, Director, Schwab Foundation & Member of the Executive Committee, World Economic Forum: “For seventeen years, our partnership with the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation has celebrated remarkable individuals who are challenging norms and creating new pathways for inclusion, opportunity, and resilience. This year’s finalists exemplify the power of social entrepreneurship to address complex societal challenges.”
Mr. Shyam S Bhartia, Chairman & Founder, Jubilant Bhartia Group: “The 17th edition of the SEOY India Award brings together a community united by purpose to create meaningful, sustainable impact. Over the years, our partnership with the Schwab Foundation has amplified the work of remarkable social entrepreneurs across India.”
Ms. Aashti Bhartia, Director, Jubilant Ingrevia & Non-Executive Director, Jubilant FoodWorks: “The award is more than about picking a winner; it is about shining a light on what is possible. Our finalists have shown incredible conviction and resilience, inspiring us all.”
About the Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award
- Established in 2008 by Jubilant Bhartia Foundation and the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship.
- Recognises India’s most innovative social entrepreneurs creating large-scale impact through sustainable solutions.
- Provides winners with visibility, networks, mentorship, and opportunities to strengthen and scale their impact.
About the Schwab Foundation
Founded in 1998 by Hilde and Klaus Schwab, the Schwab Foundation is the foremost global community of pioneering social innovators. In partnership with the World Economic Forum, it empowers leaders to transform economic and social systems for the benefit of people and the planet.
🌐 Website: schwabfound.org 📱 Facebook: /schwabfound | Instagram: @schwabfoundation | LinkedIn: Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship
About Jubilant Bhartia Foundation
Established in 2007, the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation (JBF) is the not-for-profit arm of the Jubilant Bhartia Group, working across education, healthcare, livelihoods, women empowerment, community development, environmental sustainability, and social entrepreneurship.
Submitted by PR Agency
