Mumbai, 1st March 2025: Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU) has conferred its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award upon Dr. Dinesh Shahra, honoring his outstanding contributions to India’s edible oil industry, nutrition security, and sustainability.
Dr. Shahra, a renowned industrialist and philanthropist graduated in 1972 with a degree in Chemical Engineering. Over the past five decades, his pioneering work in sustainable edible oil production and responsible business practices has revolutionized the industry. In recognition of his 50 years of transformative impact, HBTU has honored him with this esteemed award.
The award ceremony was attended by HBTU dignitaries, industry leaders, government officials, and students, who recognized Dr. Shahra’s transformative impact on the sector. The university panel commended his contributions, stating:
“Dr. Shahra’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and self-reliance makes him a true role model for future generations.”
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Shahra emphasized that sustainability is a shared responsibility and urged all stakeholders to take action. Industry Leaders must embrace eco-friendly refining, packaging, and transportation practices. Government Authorities should support policies that drive green innovations. Consumers can contribute by choosing locally sourced, minimally processed oils, he expressed.
Through his Dinesh Shahra Foundation (DSF), he continues to champion sustainability, ethical leadership, and long-term preservation of natural resources.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Shahra remarked, “I joined HBTU with a dream to transform India’s food and nutrition landscape. Today, I see that vision coming to life.” He concluded with a strong personal commitment to sustainability:
“I commit to reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainability in every way I can. I will contribute to make India self-reliant and a global leader in sustainable innovation and ethical leadership.”
The event concluded with a renewed pledge toward sustainability, reinforcing Dr. Shahra’s message that ethical leadership, innovation, and conscious choices will shape a self-reliant, sustainable India.
With a resounding “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”, the celebration ended on an inspiring note of unity and action.
The Dinesh Shahra Foundation (DSF) has been awarding scholarships to top achievers at HBTU and various other institutions, recognizing education as a cornerstone of national progress. Beyond academia, DSF actively promotes tree plantation, women’s empowerment, and sustainability initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to building a prosperous, value-driven society.
