The founder of SCARF (Schizophrenia Care and Research Foundation), Sarada Menon, has been awarded the Avvaiyar award for 2016 by the Tamil Nadu Government for her work in the area of mental health and rehabilitation, a statement from the Secretariat said on Tuesday.
The annual award is given to women who have done remarkable work for their empowerment, science, arts and culture, media and administration. Dr. Menon will receive a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, a medal weighing 8 grams and a certificate.
After presenting the award to Dr. Menon at the Secretariat on Tuesday, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa said, “We are honoured by your accepting this award. I am very happy to support you and hope that the Almighty may bless you with many more years of good health and service to the people.”
Dr. Menon thanked the Chief Minister for her continued support to SCARF. “You have always been very sympathetic and helpful regarding all services rendered to the mentally disabled. I remember in 1995 you offered all the support to help SCARF India and your announcement of equal opportunities for the mentally disabled. Since then many privileges and concessions have been offered to this unfortunate section of society,” he said.
The recognition is for her contribution to the area of mental health and rehabilitation
