NASSCOM Foundation and Genpact announce NASSCOM Social Innovation Honours 2014

NEW DELHI, INDIA: NASSCOM Foundation, in association with Genpact, announces the launch of NASSCOM Social Innovation Honours 2014. The Honours recognize innovations that creatively leverage information and communication technology to create solutions to address gaps in social development.

In the past, the Honours have recognized innovations focused on financial inclusion, employability, education, health, employability, governance, financial inclusion, and citizen services. Entries for this year's edition are now open and the winners will be honored at the NASSCOM India Leadership Forum early next year.

"Social challenges are immense but so is the potential and power of technology. The entries that we receive each year, demonstrating inspiring use of technology, web-based, mobile-based, cloud-based and others, to resolve social problems only elucidate the fact." said Rita Soni, CEO, NASSCOM. "While on the one hand the Honours are building a community of innovators and change makers, they are also making change happen on the ground by encouraging transformative ideas and walking them the last mile. Every entry received is evidence of how social problems are being tackled in different ways and how the industry is on its path to build an inclusive and sustainable India. We are more than proud to be driving change through these Honours!"

NASSCOM pioneered the NASSCOM Social Innovation Honours in 2008 and since then the Honours have attracted innovative projects from NGOs, corporates, social enterprises, government bodies, PSUs, students, groups, and individuals.

"Genpact is delighted to be a part of the Social Innovation Honors again this year as we understand the transformative power of technology based innovation and the significant role played by these entrepreneurs in driving inclusive growth in India," said Mohit Thukral, senior VP and Business Leader, Genpact. "We also share common values with these entrepreneurs which is the need to give back to society."

Each year, participants showcase their exceptional use of ICT for social transformation to an eminent jury. In the last edition, S. Ramadorai, vice chairman of TCS and advisor to the prime minister, had led the grand jury. Anand G. Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra and Narayan Murthy, Chairman of Infosys have in the past been associated with the Honours, chairing the jury. The winners will present their innovations at the prestigious NASSCOM India Leadership Forum event in February 2014.