In Pathanamthitta, Kerala, a quiet yet meaningful initiative is making space for stories that often go unheard. Launched by District Collector Prem Krishnan S (2017 batch officer, Kerala cadre), the DARE Awards aim to recognise the achievements of differently abled students – not for how closely they meet standard academic benchmarks, but for how far they’ve come on their own terms. Now in its second year, the programme reflects a shift in how success is defined and celebrated, highlighting effort, progress, and dignity over conventional performance metrics. What began as a response to a mother’s social media comment has grown into a community-supported movement with the potential to reshape recognition systems across the state – and perhaps, the country.
THE SPARK OF INSPIRATION
The genesis of the DARE Awards traces back to a routine school visit. Mr Krishnan, tasked with felicitating academic toppers, shared the event on social media, a common practice for district collectors. Among the responses, a mother’s comment stood out. Her differently abled child, though not a topper, had made significant strides within her limitations yet received no recognition. This prompted Mr Krishnan to reflect on the lack of acknowledgement for such efforts. “I realised these children are not being acknowledged unless they match the marks of other students. That’s when the thought came to start a programme for them,” the officer shared with Indian Masterminds. This moment of insight laid the foundation for what would become the DARE Awards.
Determined to act, Mr Krishnan engaged with the Education Department to explore existing recognition efforts. He discovered that differently abled children were overlooked unless their academic performance mirrored that of their peers. Motivated by this gap, he proposed a new initiative. Discussions with education officials, panchayats, and local leaders followed, aiming to identify eligible participants and design a program that honoured effort over conventional metrics.
LAUNCHING THE INITIATIVE
The DARE Awards debuted in 2024, targeting children who had passed the 10th board exams, irrespective of their grades. This inclusive approach ensured that every child’s achievement was valued. The first edition honoured over 250 participants, a number expected to be matched or exceeded in the 2025 edition. However, organising such an event presented challenges, particularly financial ones. “A lot of good minds wanted to contribute, and that made it possible to organise the event,” Mr Krishnan notes, highlighting the community’s role in overcoming these hurdles.
To manage costs, Mr Krishnan issued a public call for support. Responses poured in from individuals, NGOs, and local businesses. The Hotel and Restaurant Association, for instance, provided a venue at no charge, easing the budget strain. Trophies, certificates, and event logistics were funded through these contributions, demonstrating a collective commitment to the cause. This collaborative model has been key to sustaining the awards, with Krishnan emphasising the importance of community involvement in its success.
SELECTION PROCESS AND ELIGIBILITY
A structured process ensures the awards reach the intended beneficiaries. The Education Department maintains data on differently-abled students who have cleared the 10th board exams, serving as the initiative’s backbone. Schools submit detailed records, which are then cross-checked for accuracy. This rigorous verification guarantees that only eligible children are recognised, maintaining the programme’s integrity. “If financial conditions permit, we will try to honour those children too,” Mr Krishnan adds, hinting at future plans to expand eligibility to include plus 2 exam passers, pending adequate funding.
This methodical approach has allowed the DARE Awards to grow steadily. By focusing on documented achievements rather than subjective criteria, the initiative ensures fairness and transparency, fostering trust among participants and their families.
HEARTWARMING IMPACT AND STORIES
The DARE Awards have left a lasting impression on the community, with numerous stories underscoring their significance. During the 2024 edition, a mother shared a poignant moment with IAS Prem Krishnan. For her child, the award marked the first time their efforts had been publicly recognised. “Nobody had recognised her so far, and they carry this as something very precious,” Mr Krishnan shared with Indian Masterminds, moved by the family’s gratitude. This small trophy, though modest, became a symbol of pride and validation for the child.
Another parent offered further evidence of the awards’ influence. Inspired by the 2024 recognition, their child dedicated themself to studying harder, aiming to earn another award in 2025. This motivation highlights the programme’s ability to inspire continued effort and ambition. Such stories illustrate how the DARE Awards transcend mere recognition, offering emotional and psychological support to families often overlooked by traditional systems.
VISION FOR EXPANSION
IAS Krishnan sees the DARE Awards as a model with potential far beyond Pathanamthitta. “These children achieve whatever is possible within their limitations, and their effort should be recognised. It can become a national initiative,” he believes. The program’s success in a single district suggests it could be replicated across Kerala or even scaled up to a state or national level, providing a framework for other regions to follow.
This vision aligns with a broader goal of raising awareness about the capabilities of differently-abled children. By showcasing their talents in academics, arts, sports, and personal growth, the initiative encourages society to offer equal opportunities. IAS Prem Krishnan’s hope is that other districts will adopt similar programmes, creating a network of support and celebration across India.
FUTURE PLANNING AND SUSTAINABILITY
Looking ahead, Mr Krishnan is committed to continuing the DARE Awards in Pathanamthitta for as long as he serves as District Collector. Sustainability remains a focus, with the officer exploring ways to institutionalise the programme. This could involve partnerships with state education bodies or corporate sponsors, ensuring its longevity beyond his tenure. The aim is to create a self-sustaining model that continues to uplift differently-abled children year after year.
A CALL FOR BROADER RECOGNITION
The DARE Awards stand as a powerful example of how targeted initiatives can transform lives. By honouring the unique journeys of differently-abled children, the programme not only celebrates their achievements but also challenges societal norms around success. Krishnan’s leadership has turned a single observation into a movement, with the potential to influence educational policies and community attitudes nationwide.
As the second edition unfolded on August 08, 2025, the DARE Awards continued to grow, driven by IAS Prem Krishnan’s dedication and the community’s support. With each child recognised, the initiative reinforces the idea that every young person deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated, paving the way for a more inclusive future.
