India’s growth must benefit next generation, says Union minister Kiren Rijiju

Speaking at the Times Now Amazing Indians Awards 2026 he highlighted the importance of freedom of expression.

NEW DELHI: India is the fastest growing major economy in the world and the challenge is to extend that growth and pass on its benefits to the next generation, said Union minister of parliamentary affairs and minority affairs Kiren Rijiju.Speaking at the Times Now Amazing Indians Awards 2026 he highlighted the importance of freedom of expression. He added, "We are fortunate to be part of this great society... If there are people who are not feeling part of the growth story, then it is our duty as a part of govt to bring them along... people must have different opinions, or different beliefs..."Tukaram Mundhe, Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, Maharashtra, received the Special Recognition for Public Service.The initiative honoured changemakers across diverse fields, recognising individuals who are driving meaningful impact in society. Colonel Dr Navaz Shariff and Parveen Shaikh were named joint winners in Animal Welfare & Wildlife Conservation, while Anita Agarwal and Sayera Rahman shared the honour in Disability - Care, Rehabilitation & Developmental Support. Karthikeyan Ganesan won in Disability - Rights, Accessibility & Inclusion, with Gopinath Paul emerging winner in Education & Learning and Stalin Dayanand and Rahul Nagnath Kawde jointly winning in Environment & Sustainability.

Awadhesh Kumar was recognised for Healthcare & Accessibility, Umendra Dutt for Rural, Community & Livelihood Development, Nannam Thirupati for Social Innovation using Technology, and Audrey Dmello for Women & Child Development. Abhijeet Anand Pokharnikar received a Special Jury Mention in Education & Learning.