Kokan Kala Va Shikshan Vikas Sanstha, popularly known as Kokan NGO India, has emerged as a trusted grassroots organisation dedicated to social welfare, community development, and inclusive growth. Rooted deeply in the Konkan region, the organisation has consistently worked with vulnerable communities through relief initiatives, education support, and people-centric development programs. This commitment to society and service beyond expectations was recently recognised through a prestigious honour that celebrates real social leadership, the Brands of Konkan Award.
Presented by Sakal Media, this award is a symbol of credibility, consistency, and community trust. It acknowledges individuals and organisations that have created meaningful and measurable social impact over time, making it one of the most respected Awards for NGOs and social leaders in the Konkan region.
The Prestige of the Brands of Konkan Award
The Brands of Konkan Award, instituted by the Sakal Media Group, was conceptualised to recognise individuals who have become trusted “brands” through their values, integrity, and long-term contribution to society. Unlike conventional recognitions, this award focuses on grassroots impact, ethical leadership, and sustained service rather than momentary visibility.
In the social sector, recognition carries a deeper responsibility. It validates years of quiet work, community engagement, and dedication that often go unnoticed. The award highlights role models who inspire trust and demonstrate that social leadership is built through consistency and compassion.
Honouring a Leader Rooted in Social Commitment
The Brands of Konkan Award was conferred upon Shri Dayanand Shriram Kubal, a prominent social leader from Sindhudurg district, whose journey reflects unwavering dedication to public welfare. The award ceremony was held on 23 January 2026 at Hotel Sawant Palace, Ratnagiri, in the presence of distinguished guests from social, educational, and media backgrounds.
The honour was presented by renowned Marathi actress Dhanashree Kadgaonkar and Shri Nitin Bagate, Superintendent of Police, Ratnagiri. Their presence added dignity and public recognition to an event that celebrated values-driven social leadership.
Seventeen Years of Consistent and Selfless Social Work
This recognition acknowledges 17 years of selfless, consistent, and impactful work carried out by Shri Dayanand Kubal in the areas of social welfare, public interest, and community development. His approach to service has never been transactional or short-term. Instead, it has been rooted in long-term relationships with communities and a deep understanding of grassroots realities.
Social work, for him, has never been a project, it has been a way of life. This philosophy has shaped initiatives that are responsive, inclusive, and sustainable, earning him respect across the Konkan region.
A Philosophy Built on Grassroots Engagement
One of the defining characteristics of Shri Kubal’s work is his belief in direct engagement with communities. Rather than working from a distance, he has consistently emphasised being present on the ground, listening, understanding, and responding to real needs.
This approach has ensured that social interventions remain relevant and effective. Communities are not treated as beneficiaries alone, but as partners in change. Such grassroots leadership is what distinguishes impactful social organisations and places them among the Best NGO in Maharashtra category in terms of credibility and trust.
Key Areas of Social Impact
Over the years, Shri Dayanand Kubal’s work has spanned multiple dimensions of social welfare. While the scope has evolved, the focus has always remained on people and dignity.
His initiatives include disaster relief and immediate assistance during floods and natural calamities, ensuring timely support to affected families. Rural and community development projects have aimed at strengthening self-reliance and collective responsibility. Public interest social campaigns have addressed awareness, inclusion, and long-term societal well-being.
These efforts reflect a holistic understanding of social development, where relief, rehabilitation, and empowerment work together.
Recognition Beyond One Award
The Brands of Konkan Award adds to a series of recognitions received by Shri Dayanand Kubal for his contribution to society. In 2025, he was honoured with the Sir Ratan Tata Award and the Konkan Sanman, both of which acknowledged his result-oriented and transparent approach to social work.
Such honours further strengthen public trust and reinforce the credibility of the institutions and individuals associated with them. They also position the organisation’s work within a broader national narrative of responsible and ethical social leadership.
The Vision Behind Sakal Media’s Initiative
Through the Brands of Konkan Award, Sakal Media aims to highlight inspiring role models who reflect the values of service, accountability, and consistency. The objective is not only to recognise achievement but also to encourage youth to engage in social service and view it as a meaningful life path.
By showcasing such journeys, the initiative helps create positive examples in society and strengthens the ecosystem of Awards for NGOs and social leaders who work with integrity.
Leadership That Reflects Transparency and Integrity
What truly sets this recognition apart is its emphasis on values. The award celebrates leadership that demonstrates transparency, ethical conduct, and measurable positive change. These qualities are essential in building long-term trust, both within communities and among supporters.
Such leadership is the foundation upon which respected institutions are built, often earning them recognition as a Best NGO in India not through scale alone, but through values and impact.
A Collective Honour Shared With the Community
While accepting the award, Shri Dayanand Kubal clearly stated that the honour belongs not to him alone, but to the volunteers, donors, partner organisations, and community members who have trusted and supported the work over the years.
This acknowledgment highlights an important truth of social work, it is always collective. Behind every recognition are countless individuals who contribute time, effort, and belief to a shared mission.
Increased Responsibility and Renewed Commitment
Recognition brings pride, but it also increases responsibility. Shri Kubal expressed that the award motivates him to work with even greater determination for the needy sections of society. It reinforces the commitment to reach every vulnerable group with compassion and sincerity.
Such a response reflects maturity in leadership, seeing recognition not as an endpoint, but as a reminder to serve better.
Why Such Awards Matter in the Social Sector
Awards like the Brands of Konkan Award play a vital role in strengthening the social sector. They validate ethical work, inspire emerging leaders, and help build public confidence in organisations that genuinely serve society.
They also encourage accountability and continuous improvement, ensuring that recognised leaders and institutions uphold the standards that earned them trust.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Social Leaders
By celebrating real stories of service, the award inspires young people to consider social work as a meaningful and impactful path. It shows that dedication, patience, and integrity can create lasting change.
Such inspiration is crucial for the future of civil society and strengthens the foundation of organisations that may one day be recognised among the Best NGO in Maharashtra and nationally.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Service and Trust
As Kokan Kala Va Shikshan Vikas Sanstha, also known as Kokan NGO India, continues its journey, the Brands of Konkan Award stands as a powerful symbol of trust, credibility, and social responsibility. The recognition of Shri Dayanand Shriram Kubal reflects not just individual achievement, but a collective legacy built on compassion, consistency, and commitment.
In celebrating such leadership, the award reinforces a simple yet powerful message, real change is created by those who serve quietly, stand firmly with communities, and choose responsibility over recognition. It is this spirit that defines lasting social impact and inspires society to move forward together.
