“Marathwada is blessed with abundant natural resources, but what we need is people who can work with full intellectual capacity. In the coming years, we will overcome the region’s backlog and make Marathwada one of the most progressive parts of Maharashtra.”
— Pramod Deshmukh, Chairman, Sanskruti Samvardhan Mandal, Sagroli
A Historic Recognition on Marathwada Liberation Day
On September 17, 2025, as Maharashtra celebrated Marathwada Liberation Day, a proud moment unfolded at Pune’s Balgandharva Rangmandir. The renowned Sanskruti Samvardhan Mandal (SSM), Sagroli, Nanded District, was conferred with the highly esteemed “Marathwada Bhushan Award” by the Marathwada Samnvay Samiti, Pune.
This recognition celebrates the institution’s six decades of pioneering work in education, rural development, and social transformation.
The ceremony was graced by eminent dignitaries including Hon. Haribhau Bagde (Governor, Rajasthan), Prof. Ram Shinde (Chairman, Legislative Council, Maharashtra), and Shri Ankushrao Kadam (Vice-Chancellor, MGM University and Secretary, Mahatma Gandhi Mission, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar). Their presence added dignity and inspiration to the event.
The Legacy of Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh
The story of SSM began in 1959, when visionary leader Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh planted the seed of change in Sagroli with a single goal: to bring quality education to rural communities. What started as a humble initiative has today grown into a vast educational ecosystem nurturing thousands of students from across Maharashtra.
From primary education to higher studies, from Sainiki schools to vocational training, and from sports academies to women empowerment programs, the institution has expanded its scope to touch nearly every aspect of social development.
Bridging the Rural–Urban Divide
For over six decades, SSM has worked relentlessly to narrow the gap between rural and urban education. Its schools and colleges have enabled underprivileged children to dream beyond boundaries, equipping them with skills, confidence, and opportunities.
- Thousands of alumni today serve the nation as professionals, entrepreneurs, defense officers, educators, and social workers.
- Sports and cultural programs under SSM have produced state and national-level athletes.
- Women empowerment initiatives have given rural women the strength to earn, lead, and inspire.
- Agricultural innovation projects have helped farmers adopt sustainable practices, blending tradition with modern science.
A Collective Achievement
Accepting the award, Chairman Pramod Deshmukh acknowledged the collective spirit that drives the institution:
“This recognition belongs not only to our institution but also to our well-wishers, advisors, staff, alumni, and students whose tireless contributions keep this movement alive. The tree planted by Karmayogi Babasaheb Deshmukh has today grown into a flourishing banyan tree that shelters countless families with knowledge, opportunities, and hope.”
Looking Ahead
The “Marathwada Bhushan Award” is more than just a title. It is a milestone that reflects SSM’s journey from a small village initiative to a symbol of educational and social excellence. The recognition also sets the tone for the future—where Marathwada is envisioned as a hub of knowledge, progress, and sustainable development.
As SSM continues its journey, it carries forward the legacy of Babasaheb Deshmukh: transforming lives through education, empowering communities, and shaping a brighter tomorrow for rural India.