On 28th January 2012, Clementien Pauws, President of Karuna Society, was selected to receive an award from the Sahiti Gagan Mahal Trust, Penukonda (Andhra Pradesh) for all the good works that Karuna Society has accomplished over the years. Every three years, this trust gives awards away to 20 individuals born in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh who have contributed to society in a special way in India or abroad. People from all walks of life are nominated, and a special section is open for people who are not born in Anantapur but have come from other regions and have made a difference for Anantapur district.

The function was inaugurated by Chief guest Retired Supreme Court Chief Justice Venkatachalamaiah joined by a special guest, our District Collector Sri Dhurga Das. This is the first local award for animal care and welfare. It is good news for the animals as it shows that the animals have come to the notice of many people.  It also means that their care and welfare is an issue, bringing attention to the anti plastic campaign, the planning of the new dairies, and the illegal transport of cows for slaughter.

When asked about the reward, Clementien wanted to thank Karuna’s board members and staff publicly for their unwavering support and hard work under difficult conditions for more than 15 years. She also wanted to include their neighbour society IABWS (International Animals & Birds Welfare Society) Guttur, Mr G. Manjunath, who has taken up the ABC (sterilization program) in the district in a big way and has worked closely with Karuna Society from the beginning.