Samarthanam Trust, which supports the Indian blind cricket team and works for empowerment and upliftment of specially-abled people, was today awarded the national award for the empowerment of persons with disabilities.

The Founder-Managing Trustee Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar was felicitated by the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind. "It is a moment of honour and pride. The award is a token of appreciation and also adds encouragement to strive further and aim higher. I am thankful for all the support received from employees, people, donors and well-wishers and aiding us in completing our goals," Mahantesh said.

Samarthanam is also a patron of the Cricket Association for Blind in India. Shekhar Naik, the former Captain of the Indian blind cricket team, was also one of the awardees today. "The trust not only skills and empowers people but also inspires them to become independent. This felicitation will inspire more people like me to come and become a part of this movement," he said.