CavinKare ABILITY Awards were jointly instituted by Ability Foundation & CavinKare Pvt Ltd, in 2003 to honour achievers with disabilities who have soared beyond conventional barriers to realise their chosen dreams. They are national awards recognising exemplary services as well as accomplishments of the achievers. The world of social entrepreneurs, especially those with disability, is a lonely one. And those who have succeeded and brought about significant changes need to be recognised and appreciated. Giving these awards, the Foundation believes, leads to awareness-building on the capabilities of persons with disabilities. The awards come in two categories:

CavinKare ABILITY Award for Eminence is given to 1 person with disability, who has demonstrated a commitment to others that goes beyond personal triumphs. The Award comprises a memento, a citation and a cash prize of Rs.2 lakhs.

CavinKare ABILITY Mastery Awards are given to 3 persons who have not allowed their disability to come in the way of attaining excellence in their chosen field. These awards recognise mastery in any area of one’s choice and to those who have set high standards for themselves and achieved their ambitions. The Award comprises a memento, citation and a cash prize of Rs.1 lakh each.

Process of selection: The selection process begins with advertisements calling for nominations. Any Indian national who has a disability (as per the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995) and has done exceptional work in his chosen field is eligible to apply. The nominations are short-listed and representatives visit them for an indepth understanding. Based on this, the nationally known eminent jury selects the winners.