Bhuvnesh Soni Honored with Yuva Bharat Gaurav Ratna for His Holistic Contributions to Society

Kalburgi, Karnataka – Bhuvnesh Soni, the visionary founder of Happiness Volunteers, has been conferred the prestigious Yuva Bharat Gaurav Ratna at the Bharatiya Samskruti Utsav 2025 in Kalburgi, Karnataka. The award recognizes his unparalleled contributions as a social reformer, mentor, advocate for sustainable development, and cultural ambassador, positioning him as a true all-rounder in the field of social service.

 

A passionate samaj sevak, Bhuvnesh has dedicated his life to uplifting marginalized communities, bridging societal divides, and fostering collaboration between governments, grassroots organizations, and citizens. His work spans diverse domains, from crisis management and youth empowerment to promoting Indian culture, environmental sustainability, and financial inclusion—leaving no stone unturned in his mission to create a better India.

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bhuvnesh played a pivotal role as the Head of the Migrant Workers Team at CITF, leading relief efforts for over 800,000 migrant workers stranded across 18+ states. Despite limited resources, he mobilized funds through crowdfunding and partnerships with local businesses to provide food, shelter, and safe transportation. His work extended beyond immediate relief—he ensured long-term solutions by securing Ayushman Bharat health cards for 25,000 individuals in Mathura, enabling access to affordable healthcare. Remarkably, over 70% of beneficiaries utilized these cards within six months, underscoring the tangible impact of his initiatives. He also collaborated with the Aahwahan Foundation, working under Nitesh Kumar, North Head of Aahwahan Foundation. He also worked with India’s Best Rehab Centre names Roar wellness Rehab Centre in alcohol and  drug addiction treatment who suffer from addiction issue. 

 

Bhuvnesh’s commitment to rural empowerment is exemplified by his groundbreaking initiative to promote traditional crafts and eco-friendly products. He spearheaded a nationwide campaign to produce 750,000 cow dung diyas, leveraging partnerships with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and local artisans. This initiative not only revived traditional craftsmanship but also significantly improved the livelihoods of thousands of women. Through strategic program management and effective team leadership, Bhuvnesh transformed SHGs into thriving enterprises. For instance, women involved in crafting cow dung diyas saw their monthly incomes increase from ₹2,000 to ₹21,000, empowering them to lead dignified lives.

 

“Thanks to Bhuvnesh Ji’s guidance, I can now support my family and send my children to school,” shared Rekha Devi, a participant from Sagar, Madhya Pradesh.

 

Additionally, he organized workshops on creating eco-friendly idols and traditional artifacts, reviving cultural heritage while promoting sustainable practices. These workshops reached artisans across 15 states, fostering a sense of pride in their craft and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

 

Bhuvnesh’s commitment to youth empowerment is evident in his innovative programs that bridge the gap between education and employment. Through Happiness Volunteers, he launched skill-development initiatives like “Campus to Corporate,” equipping students with soft skills, BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) expertise, and industry-relevant training. For example, his digital marketing program trained over 1,000 students, with 90% securing jobs within three months.

 

Beyond formal programs, Bhuvnesh created a nationwide network of mentors through WhatsApp groups, connecting students in need with experienced professionals and industry experts. Acting as a bridge between aspiring learners and mentors, he has impacted thousands of lives and continues to nurture young minds, ensuring that no student is left behind due to a lack of guidance.

 

His ability to manage large-scale programs and mobilize grassroots participation has earned him recognition as a versatile trainer and grassroots mobilizer. To date, he has educated and trained over 3,000 educators across India, equipping them with tools to inspire and guide the next generation effectively. For example, his initiative to revive traditional art forms economically empowered artisans, increasing their monthly income by 40%. Additionally, Bhuvnesh has championed eco-friendly practices such as biodegradable packaging and waste management, reducing plastic waste by 30% in targeted regions. His efforts demonstrate how cultural revival and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand.

 

As the State Coordinator for ICAN—a project supported by NITI Aayog and international agencies—Bhuvnesh has championed the localization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By aligning grassroots efforts with global objectives, he has strengthened public policy frameworks, promoting inclusive growth and environmental sustainability.

 

One notable success was his partnership with local governments in Odisha to implement water conservation projects, directly benefiting 5,000 rural households. His work highlights the importance of collaboration between policymakers and communities to drive meaningful change.

 

Despite facing numerous challenges, such as resistance from traditional communities and funding constraints, Bhuvnesh has remained steadfast in his mission.

 

“Every challenge is an opportunity to innovate,” he says.

 

Looking ahead, he plans to scale his successful models nationwide, replicate them in underserved regions, and expand his focus on women’s empowerment, child welfare, and environmental sustainability.

 

“This award belongs to every volunteer, partner, and beneficiary who joined me on this journey,” said Bhuvnesh. “I urge everyone to contribute to nation-building by volunteering, mentoring, or supporting grassroots initiatives.”