In recognition of his outstanding public service through the organisation Madhyam Spandana, senior journalist and Karnataka Working Journalists Association Vice-President Ajjamada Ramesh Kuttappa has been selected for the prestigious state-level “Behind-the-Scenes Achiever” Award.
The award has been instituted as part of the 75th birth anniversary celebrations of Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Guruji. Twenty-five individuals from various fields across Karnataka, recognised for their selfless service to society, have been chosen for this honour.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ajjamada Ramesh Kuttappa established Madhyam Spandana by bringing together journalists from Kodagu with the objective of serving society during times of crisis.
Under the banner of Madhyam Spandana, numerous humanitarian activities were undertaken, including distribution of food kits and medicines to needy families, facilitating the safe return of stranded students from other districts and assisting affected communities during the pandemic. The organisation also undertook the final rites of two COVID-19 victims when no one else was available to do so.
Even after the pandemic, Madhyam Spandana has continued its social service activities. With support from donors, the organisation has extended assistance towards the education of economically disadvantaged students and medical treatment for needy individuals.
It has also conducted the “Drugs Mukta Kodagu” awareness campaign, educating people about the harmful effects of drug abuse. The organisation has earned widespread appreciation for providing selfless service without discrimination based on caste, religion, creed or social status.
Ajjamada Ramesh Kuttappa has served in the field of journalism for over 26 years and is currently serving as Mysuru Local Editor of the Pratinidhi newspaper. He is also President of the Kodagu Press Club Souharda Sahakari Sangha Ltd. and has previously served as President of both the Kodagu District Working Journalists Association and the Kodagu Press Club.
Widely respected for his journalistic integrity and ethical standards, Ramesh Kuttappa was honoured with the prestigious “Courageous Journalist Award”, which included a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh and a gold coin presented by VRL founder Dr. Vijay Sankeshwar. The award recognised his refusal to accept a bribe reportedly worth Rs 1.50 crore in connection with a political case.
Over the years, he has received numerous honours, including the Karnataka State Government Environmental Journalism Award, Karnataka Media Academy Lifetime Achievement Award, Kodagu District Administration Rajyotsava Award and the Kasaragod Journalists’ Association Inter-State Award.
He has also received several awards for excellence in reporting from organisations including the Karnataka Working Journalists Association and the Kodagu District Working Journalists Association and has been felicitated by various media and social organisations, including the Indian Journalists Federation.
