When N.S. Hema founded the Association of People with Disability (APD) in 1959, her vision extended beyond supporting persons with disabilities. It was about building an ecosystem where organisations working in the sector could grow, collaborate and create lasting impact.
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Applications for the 10th N.S. Hema Memorial Awards, instituted by APD, are open until August 20, 2026
Carrying that vision forward, APD has announced that applications for the 10th edition of the N.S. Hema Memorial Awards are now open until August 20, 2026. The awards recognise organisations advancing disability inclusion across South India and Maharashtra.
Over the years, the awards have recognised organisations such as People with Hearing Impaired Network (PHIN), Saadhya Trust for Social Development, Sri Arunodayam Charitable Trust, and Atchayam Trust, showcasing innovative, community-led models in disability inclusion.
This year introduces two award categories:
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Disability Inclusive Health
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Disability Inclusive Livelihood
With a total prize pool of Rs. 2.5 lakh, the awards go beyond financial recognition. Winners and selected high-potential organisations will gain access to strategic co-funding opportunities, capacity-building cohorts, and peer-learning networks designed to strengthen organisational resilience and amplify long-term impact.
“Organisations closest to the communities they serve often bring a deep understanding of what inclusion looks like in practice. Their work is shaped by lived realities, local needs and the aspirations of the people they work alongside. The N.S. Hema Memorial Awards are an opportunity to recognise this leadership and create pathways for organisations to access the resources, networks and opportunities they need to strengthen their impact,” said Sukanto Aich, CEO, Association of People with Disability (APD).
Applications are open to legally registered non-profit organisations (Trusts or Societies) that hold valid 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 registrations, have 3–10 years of active field operations, an annual budget of up to Rs. 2.5 crore depending on the award category, and an active presence in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, or Maharashtra.
Entries will be evaluated by an independent jury on the basis of:
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Impact evidence
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Community-led model
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Innovation and scaling potential
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Governance practices
Nominate until August 20, 2026.
Apply here: events.apps.apd-india.org
For detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria, visit www.apd-india.org.
About the Association of People with Disability
APD is a pioneering non-profit organisation, established in 1959 by the late Ms N. S. Hema. APD has impacted over 6 lakh People with Disabilities from underprivileged communities from remote, rural, and poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Various programs by APD cover 18 out of 21 disabilities stated in the RPWD Act 2016. With a diverse and inclusive team of over 230 members (45% Women and 30% PwD’s), APD reaches out to over 60,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries annually. APD is managed by a professional team of developmental and technical experts overseen by an eminent Board of Governors and Trustees. The Association maintains the highest standards of governance, has been acknowledged by multiple donors and is accredited by independent agencies like the TISS, Credibility Alliance, RCI, and NIPMAN Foundation.
