Jamshedpur: The second edition of the XLRI Jamshedpur Emerging Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award (XL-JESEY 2025) took place on February 9, 2025, celebrating women social entrepreneurs who have made a significant impact through innovative and sustainable business models. Organized by XLRI’s Centre for Inclusiveness, the award aims to recognize social entrepreneurs who are driving positive change in their communities.
This year’s theme, “Novel Approaches in Women Entrepreneurship,” focused on initiatives that empower women while addressing important social, economic, and environmental challenges. The award spotlighted transformative efforts that contribute to gender equality and inclusive development.
The XL-JESEY 2025 award was presented to three exceptional entrepreneurs. Premlata Poonia, founder of Hamari Laado, received the top honor for her commitment to girls’ education and women’s empowerment in rural India. Through her initiative, she provides educational resources, mentorship, and skill development programs to help marginalized women achieve economic independence. Anuradha Richhariya, Managing Director of Lalitpur Mahila Kisan Producer Company, was recognized for her work in strengthening women-led agricultural enterprises. She focuses on improving market access, financial literacy, and sustainable farming practices, thus enhancing the economic well-being of female farmers. Aruna Tirkey, founder of Ajam Emba, was honored for her efforts in reviving indigenous cuisine and empowering tribal women through sustainable food entrepreneurship. By promoting traditional culinary practices and providing employment opportunities for tribal women, she has helped preserve cultural heritage while fostering economic self-sufficiency.
Each of the three winners received a cash prize of ₹1,50,000 in recognition of their contributions to social entrepreneurship. The ceremony was part of the eighth edition of the Social Entrepreneurship Conclave (SEC-8), organized by the SIGMA-oikos committee at XLRI Jamshedpur. The conclave brought together over 150 participants, including students, industry leaders, and social entrepreneurs, to discuss the theme “Women Entrepreneurship & Inclusive Growth.” Roopa Roshan Sahoo, IAS, gave the keynote address, discussing policy frameworks and the challenges of creating an equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem for women in India. The event also featured two panel discussions on the role of women in shaping the entrepreneurial landscape.
