Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Highlights Reforms in Ashram Schools to Meet Modern Challenges

State-Level ‘Mukta-Jagannath Award’ Presented by Deputy CM

Baramati, Sept 2025 : To address the evolving challenges of the modern era, the state government is implementing comprehensive reforms in ashram schools across Maharashtra. Various innovative initiatives are being introduced to provide quality education to contemporary students, Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Baramati, Ajit Pawar, said.

Speaking at the State-Level ‘Mukta-Jagannath Award’ 2025-26 ceremony organized at the Yashwantrao More Patil Ashram School, Murti-Modhve, in memory of freedom fighter Late Jagannath (Anna) Kokare, Pawar highlighted the government’s commitment to these reforms. The event was organized by Pandita Ramabai Samaj Prabodhan Sanstha, and attended by former MLA Adv. Vijay More, Sub-Divisional Officer Vaibhav Navadkar, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Dr. Sudarshan Rathod, Executive Engineer Amol Pawar, Tehsildar Ganesh Shinde, Group Development Officer Kishor Mane, Executive Engineer of the Pati-Bandhare Department Dingbar Dubal, President of the Pandita Ramabai Samaj Prabodhan Sanstha Alka More, Principal Vishwanath Tengale, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students.

Social Contribution of Pandita Ramabai Samaj Prabodhan Sanstha

Pawar stated that inspired by Pandita Ramabai’s work, Alka More founded the Pandita Ramabai Samaj Prabodhan Sanstha. The organization has made significant contributions in social, educational, superstition eradication, addiction rehabilitation, and women’s empowerment initiatives. The Sanstha conducts legal awareness camps for the rural poor, small-scale industry training for women, farmer-women-laborer gatherings, and tree plantation drives. The ‘Adarsh Mata Award’ conferred by the Sanstha is highly commendable.

The Yashwantrao More Patil Ashram School provides education to orphans, underprivileged, and students from marginalized communities, including nomadic tribes and economically weak families. The school offers modern facilities and has been awarded the ‘Ideal Ashram School Award’. Pawar assured full government support to the school, which serves as a shelter and educational hub for rural students.

Freedom Fighter Jagannath (Anna) Kokare’s Inspirational Legacy

Jagannath (Anna) Kokare was imprisoned at the age of 20 but remained committed to public welfare through his work with freedom fighter committees. His life serves as a role model for all. Previous recipients of the Mukta-Jagannath Award include prominent personalities like Ganpatrao Deshmukh, Narendra Dabholkar, Mohan Dharia, Anil Avchat, and Raju Shetty.

This year, Dr. Sanjay Sawant was chosen for his exemplary healthcare service. He has implemented the ‘Suvarnakanya Campaign’ across 16 villages, providing free treatment to over 100,000 patients. Deputy CM Pawar extended his best wishes for Dr. Sawant’s service.

Healthcare and Science Initiatives in Baramati

Pawar highlighted ongoing developments:

• Completion of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College
• Ongoing work at Government Ayurvedic College
• Planned Veterinary College
• Irrigation projects including Jnai-Shirsai Lift Irrigation Scheme and Karha-Nira River Link

He announced a 10-acre state-of-the-art cancer hospital in Baramati and a new Science Park to complement the existing Agriculture Science Center.

Encouraging Students’ Scientific Outlook

Adv. Vijay More emphasized the importance of the awards in inspiring students and fostering a scientific mindset. Dr. Sanjay Sawant acknowledged the strengthening of health facilities in the taluka due to Deputy CM Pawar’s efforts and reiterated his commitment to continuing service in the medical sector.

Award Ceremony Highlights

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar presented the Mukta-Jagannath Award to Dr. Sanjay Sawant. The event also featured the release of the book ‘Yantra-Mantra-Tantra’ authored by Vimalchandra Bhurke. Additionally, Pawar inaugurated a science exhibition at Yashwantrao More Patil Ashram School, Murti-Modhve, highlighting student innovations.