Pauzagin Tonsing, a pioneering force in education for persons with disabilities, was awarded the Times Now Amazing Indians Awards 2024 in the Education category for his remarkable contributions to the field. Tonsing, who serves as the Founder Director of the Centre for Community Initiative (CCI), has been instrumental in creating inclusive educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
As a father of a child with visual impairment, Tonsing faced numerous challenges in establishing an inclusive environment for persons with disabilities (PwDs). With limited resources and knowledge, his initiative was built on local resources to support PwDs.
Starting with humble beginnings in 2007, Tonsing's initiative has evolved into a comprehensive support system that includes a Day School, Early Intervention unit, Home-Based Care, Advocacy, Livelihood, and Community-Based Rehabilitation, all aimed at fostering self-reliant living for PwDs.
Tonsing, who graduated in Physics from Assam University and earned a PGD in Journalism from IIMC, Dhenkanal, Odisha, began his journey in community service by founding a local paper to raise awareness on social issues. His life took a pivotal turn in 2005 when his son was born with irreversible optic nerve atrophy. Faced with a lack of educational resources for disabled children, Tonsing and his wife, alongside other parents, founded the CCI in 2007 and launched The Malsawm Initiative (a school for children with special needs) in 2011.
The organisation's impact was further recognised by the UNDP, which provided support from 2014 to 2016 through UN Volunteers in special education, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and social work. Tonsing also serves on the State Advisory Board (Disability) for Manipur and is active in various district-level committees focused on health, education, and social welfare.
About The Award
The Amazing Indians Awards honor individuals who have made profound positive impacts in India through their exceptional dedication and selfless service. These remarkable individuals have faced numerous challenges with impressive courage and determination, contributing significantly to various fields such as women’s rights, animal welfare, sustainability, and healthcare.
The awards are highlighted by a compelling TV series that showcases the inspiring stories of the recipients, bringing their notable achievements into the national spotlight. Times Network believes that the greatness of a nation is reflected in its people and their commitment to making a difference. Those who work tirelessly for positive change are celebrated as true heroes—our Amazing Indians.
Over the years, the Amazing Indians TV series has presented more than 2,000 uplifting stories from across India, inspiring millions with tales of dedication and transformation.
Grand Jury for Amazing Indians Awards 2024
The Grand Jury for the Amazing Indians Awards 2024 is comprised of a distinguished group of influential figures from various sectors. The jury includes:
General Manoj Mukund Naravane, the former Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army; Sanjeev Sanyal, a prominent economist and member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister; Rajeev Chandrashekhar, BJP Leader and former Minister of State for Electronics & IT and Skill Development; Prasoon Joshi, Chairman of McCann Worldgroup Asia Pacific and CEO & CCO of McCann Worldwide India, and Renu Sud Karnad, Chairperson of GlaxoSmithKline and a board member of HDFC Bank.
(Courtesy: TimesNow)
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