“I still remember the countless times I saw homeless people begging on the streets during my childhood. It broke my heart, and I made a promise to myself that I would do something to make a difference when I grew up.

Born and raised in Kalahasti, Andhra Pradesh, my father instilled in me a passion for social service. After marriage, I moved to Hyderabad and discovered a new talent for embroidery and tailoring. But I didn’t stop there – I started teaching other women in my colony, empowering them to become self-sufficient.

In 2015, I took the leap and founded an NGO, Shanti Sahaya Seva Samithi. Our mission? To improve the lives of the needy and support low-income students in their education. We’ve been working tirelessly with the government and other welfare activists to put an end to female foeticide in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. But that’s not all – we also provide free food and facilities to those who need it most. I am also the founder, president of Sri Hasthina Mahila Mandali which is into women welfare initiatives.

Apart from this, I’ve been performing last rites legally for unclaimed bodies for over eight years now, inspired by the selfless work of M Srinivas at government hospitals. Yes, I faced criticism for taking on this role as a woman, but my conviction in the cause drove me forward.

Through it all, my family and friends have stood by me, and I’m grateful for their unwavering support. Looking back, I’m proud to have made a difference in society, and I won’t stop fighting for women’s rights and progress.”

• Erram Shanthi, Social Worker