Gadchiroli: The Gondwana University has decided to award honorary D Litt degree to noted social activists Dewaji Tofa and Sunil Deshpande for their outstanding contribution to the society.

A proposal to this effect was passed in the senate meeting and it also received a green signal from the Governor’s office. Dewaji Tofa is a resident of Mandha village in the Dhanora taluka of the district and is known for his slogan ‘Amchya Gavat Amhich Sarkar’ (We are the government in our village). Mendha has got its rights due to his leadership and the village has become ideal due to his continuous efforts.

Mendha showed the way in implementation of rights of gram sabhas and their importance. The village has also worked for protection of environment under the leadership of Tofa.

On the other hand, Sunil Deshpande is a social worker active in tribal and rural areas. He has been running a bamboo centre at Lawada near Melghat. He, along with his wife Nirupama, has been working for the last 20 years to provide employment to tribals through bamboo. The couple has helped tribals with skill development through the bamboo centre.

Dr Shrinivas Varkhedi, acting Vice-Chancellor of the University, said, “The present generation will certainly get inspiration from their work.”

First published by The Live Nagpur on 10 Mar. 2021

Photograph on the occasion of conferment of D Litt. to Dewaji Tofa, Oct. 2021