Nita Ambani has been awarded the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences Humanitarian Award in recognition of her significant contribution to social development in the fields of healthcare, education, women empowerment and sports promotion.

Reliance Foundation Founder and Chairperson Nita M. Ambani was honoured with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) campus last Monday (March 16).

Sri Lankan Nobel laureate Mohan Munasinghe presented the award to KIIT, KISS, and KIMS in the presence of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, founder of KIIT. The award was given in recognition of their significant contributions to social development in the areas of education, healthcare, rural transformation, women's empowerment, and sports promotion. KISS is the world's largest tribal university, providing free education, housing, and holistic development to approximately 80,000 tribal children from kindergarten to postgraduate levels.

There is no difference between a son and a daughter.

Accepting the award, Nita Ambani said in her address, "Whatever our sons can do, our daughters can also do. There is no difference between sons and daughters." She added, "Always remember that where you are today is your beginning, not your destination. How far you will go will be determined by your dreams, your hard work, and your courage to keep going."

Expressing confidence in tribal children, he said, "I firmly believe that India's future is extremely bright." He dedicated the award to his entire team at the Reliance Foundation. During the ceremony, he also called institutions like KIIT and KISS "modern temples of education."

Who has received this honour so far?

Established in 2008 by Dr. Samant, the KISS Humanitarian Award honors individuals and organizations worldwide who demonstrate the spirit of humanitarian service. The award consists of a citation and a gold-plated trophy. Over the years, the award has been presented to distinguished world leaders, Nobel laureates, and distinguished personalities from various continents. Previously, this honor has been bestowed upon Ratan Tata, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and Aniruddha Jugnauth, among others.

What is Reliance Foundation?

Reliance Foundation is a charitable organization of Reliance Industries that works for social service. This is a division of Reliance that works not for profit but for social service. It was founded in 2010 by Nita Ambani. Its major projects include rural transformation, improving education, healthcare, promoting sports, and disaster management.