Aziz Nathani to Receive Prestigious ‘Gadchiroli Gaurav Award’ for Outstanding Contribution to Education

Gadchiroli, Jan 2: In recognition of his remarkable contribution to strengthening and uplifting the education sector in the aspirational and backward Gadchiroli district, eminent educationist Aziz alias (Bunty) Hamid Nathani has been selected for the prestigious Gadchiroli Gaurav Award, announced by the Gadchiroli Press Club. The decision was taken at a meeting held at the Gadchiroli Press Club on Thursday (Jan 1). The award is conferred annually on individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Gadchiroli district, society and the nation. Nathani will be honoured at the Journalists’ Day function organised on the occasion of the birth anniversary of pioneer journalist Acharya Balshastri Jambhekar on Tuesday (Jan 6) at the Gadchiroli District Central Cooperative Bank. Aziz Nathani has been actively working in the educational and social sectors for over three decades. Understanding that students from Gadchiroli were unable to access quality English-medium education due to poverty and financial constraints, he co-founded the Platinum Jubilee Education Society in 1972 along with his cousin Alauddin Nathani, Dr Lakhani and four others. Under this initiative, the Platinum Jubilee School was established—Gadchiroli district’s first English-medium school. Despite numerous challenges, the school has successfully served the tribal-dominated district for over 50 years and has played a key role in enriching the local education ecosystem. As the General Secretary of the Platinum Jubilee Education Society, Nathani has provided visionary leadership. By collaborating with Aga Khan Education Services, India (AKES, I) and reputed educational institutions in London, he helped develop an advanced curriculum and introduce international-standard educational facilities. As a result, Platinum Jubilee School became the first institution in Vidarbha to offer education based on international schooling practices. The school provides world-class educational facilities to underprivileged and tribal students at nominal fees. Over the years, it has produced several IAS and IPS officers, chartered accountants, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, educationists and other professionals. Beyond education, Nathani has made notable contributions to social service. He was a member of the National Disaster Aid and Response Team (NDART), affiliated with the Europe-based NGO FOCUS. During the 2005 Jammu and Kashmir earthquake, he personally served in four adopted villages of Uri district, distributing tents, blankets and food in Sultan Daki village, located just three kilometres from the Line of Control. During demonetisation, he assisted people in withdrawing money from banks and provided water and essential supplies to those standing in long queues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he facilitated the distribution of a large number of PPE kits. His patriotism is equally inspiring. At Platinum Jubilee School, Nathani ensured the installation of the district’s tallest national flag, which flies round the clock. The magnificent tricolour, measuring 600 square feet and hoisted at a height of 100 feet, has become a symbol of national pride and patriotism for everyone entering Gadchiroli. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to education, social service and nation-building, the Gadchiroli Press Club has announced the Gadchiroli Gaurav Award for Aziz Nathani. The Press Club has extended its congratulations, and he is receiving widespread appreciation and best wishes from all sections of society.