Renowned activist and social reformer Shri Manda Krishna Madiga has been conferred the Padma Shri 2025 in the category of Public Affairs, recognizing his decades-long struggle for the rights of marginalised Scheduled Castes, particularly the Madiga community, and his unwavering advocacy for social equity through constitutional means.
Shri Madiga is the founder of the Madiga Reservation Porata Samithi (MRPS), established in 1994. The movement has been at the forefront of the demand for sub-categorisation within Scheduled Castes to ensure equitable distribution of reservation benefits among historically disadvantaged SC communities.
Through protests, public outreach, and persistent dialogue with policymakers, he brought national attention to caste inequities and inspired landmark discussions in both judicial and political forums. His tireless efforts significantly contributed to the Supreme Court’s recognition of the need for reclassification within SCs in recent years.
In addition to his fight for caste justice, Shri Krishna Madiga has also worked for the upliftment of persons with disabilities. In 2007, he launched the Vikalangula Hakkula Porata Samithi, advocating for inclusive policies, accessibility, and fair representation in employment and education.
Upon receiving the Padma Shri, he remarked:
“This is not just my award—it belongs to every individual and every community that stood up for justice and equality. Our voice has finally been heard.”
- Caste Equity Reformer: Raised the issue of intra-SC disparity to national prominence.
- Movement Builder: Built one of India’s most sustained grassroots protest platforms through MRPS.
- Inclusive Advocate: Worked across issues—from caste to disability—with sincerity and resolve.
Shri Manda Krishna Madiga’s Padma Shri is a recognition of people’s power, of movements rooted in justice, and of the role a single determined individual can play in shaping public consciousness and national policy.
