By Matters India reporter
Indore, July 17, 2026: The Universal Solidarity Movement (USM) celebrated its 34th Foundation Day by honoring five young people with Honesty Awards, underscoring its mission to foster integrity, peace, and leadership among youth.
“Thirty-three years in the life of a movement or an organization may not seem a very long period. Yet these years have been deeply meaningful for USM, as they have enabled us to make a humble contribution towards building a Civilization of Love by nurturing the values of forgiveness, reconciliation, peace, and harmony, especially among young people,” said USM President Annie Pawar in her welcome address.
The annual celebration, attended by more than 100 participants including civil society members, students, and teachers, also served as a moment of accountability and gratitude.
Pawar noted that the event allows USM to thank “friends, well-wishers, and supporters whose encouragement and goodwill have sustained the journey of USM over the years.”
The Honesty Awards, instituted by Bernardo D’Souza and his family of Goa, recognize exemplary commitment to honesty and integrity. Each award carries a cash prize of 15,001 rupees ($155) and a certificate.
D’Souza said he believes honoring honest individuals “will inspire the emergence of a new generation of citizens committed to honesty and integrity.”
Father Jacob Peenikaparambil, USM’s national coordinator, explained the history of the Honesty Foundation, Goa, which annually confers the awards to encourage young people to embrace honesty.
Renowned classical vocalist Vidushi Kalapini Komkali, the chief guest, urged participants to cultivate artistic pursuits.
“In the relentless pursuit of success, many people fail to experience genuine happiness,” she said.
“Professional achievements and the accumulation of wealth are not the ultimate goals of life.” She emphasized that value education and leadership programs should also nurture creativity and inner fulfillment.
Retired Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal of Indore, presided over the function. He praised USM’s mission of promoting peace, harmony, and social responsibility, saying its activities embody the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the Indian ideal that “the whole world is one family.”
(Photo supplied)