Pune: True success and wealth do not lie merely in material possessions but in raising children in adverse circumstances and establishing them in their careers while continuing social service with a sense of responsibility. For these qualities, Asha and Shravan Gaikwad, residents of Takali Dhokeshwar, Parner, have been announced as recipients of the **Ideal Parents Award** by the Sushangat Foundation, Pune.
Despite challenging conditions, Shravan and Asha Gaikwad provided quality education to their children:
– **Eldest son Dr. Girish Gaikwad** lives in Neral, Raigad district, and offers full-time medical services in the nearby tribal-dominated Kalamb village. Alongside his medical practice, he has completed an LLB and is actively involved in social service. His wife, Dr. Varsha Gaikwad, runs a successful dental clinic in Neral. They have a daughter, Shreya, currently studying in the 10th grade.
– **Second son Vijay Gaikwad** pursued a B.Sc. in Agriculture and built a career in agricultural journalism. While studying, he began contributing to agricultural journalism and later worked as a ministry correspondent for the Agrovan daily under Sakal Media Group for 13 years. He has also worked with ETV Bharat and Max Maharashtra. Currently, he serves as the Public Relations Officer for the Chief Minister’s Environment and Sustainable Development Task Force in Mumbai. He has completed an LLB. His wife, Ashlesha, is a pharmacy graduate and MBA, working as a resource person for a renowned art firm in Mumbai. Their son Aarav, a hockey enthusiast, studies at Don Bosco School in Mumbai.
– **Third son Dr. Satish Gaikwad** completed his BVSc at Shirwal Veterinary College, followed by an MVSc and PhD at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI). He completed his post-doctorate in South Korea, where he contributed significantly to veterinary research. Dr. Satish has worked as an Assistant Professor in the Biotechnology Department at Parbhani Veterinary College. After three years of service, he joined the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in Pune as a Senior Scientist. His wife, Dr. Usharani Gaikwad, has also completed a PhD in veterinary sciences. They reside in Pune with their daughter Sejal.
– **Daughter Pradya** is engaged in the pharmacy business in Panvel and has a son named Samyak.
Shravan and Asha Gaikwad have continued their commitment to social service. While ensuring the success of their own children, they actively assist underprivileged children with education, scholarships, and guidance, often providing financial help.
They embody Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s mantra of “Educate, Agitate, Organize.” The Gaikwad family is known for standing against any form of injustice or oppression.
Under the guidance of prominent social reformers, Shravan Gaikwad has actively resisted the encroachment of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial in Parner. He has also exposed the misappropriation of funds meant for Dalit settlements through the Right to Information Act.
Despite challenges, they remained steadfast in the Dhamma, officiating thousands of Buddhist wedding ceremonies across Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmednagar. Through organizations like the Buddhist Welfare Society, Buddhist Panchayat, and the Indian Buddhist Council, they have made invaluable contributions.
**The Ideal Parent Award Ceremony** will take place on **January 25, 2025, in Pune.** The event will feature **Prof. Milind Joshi**, Executive President of Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad, Pune, as the Chief Guest, and **Vivek Sawant**, Chief Mentor of Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited (MKCL), as the Presiding Officer.
**Venue:** S.M. Joshi Auditorium, Navi Peth, Ganjave Chowk, Pune – 411030
**Date and Time:** Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 9:30 AM
The announcement of this award has drawn widespread congratulations for the Gaikwad couple from their region and beyond.