The award instituted in loving memory of Padmini Varkey — prominent social, political and humanitarian worker, long-time Joint Secretary of the Devaki Warrier Women's Empowerment Study Centre, and former President of the Kerala Working Women's Association — has this year been conferred upon Dr. Chitra Venkiteswaran

Dr. Chitra Venkiteswaran has been carrying out remarkable work in Kerala’s mental health sector for 26 years. Her approach of integrating psychiatric treatment with palliative care is innovative and deeply committed.  

She is the founder of Mehak Foundation, which works to improve the quality of life of individuals with mental and psychosocial issues and their families.  

Dr. Chitra played a key role in starting Psycho-Oncology clinics at the Calicut Pain & Palliative Care Society (2003) and at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences.  

She is also known for her exemplary work in providing free care and medicines to those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.  

She currently serves as Head of the Department of Psychiatry at Believers Church Medical College.

The award consists of ?25,000 and a citation.

The award was presented by former Chief Secretary S.M. Vijayanand at the event held on December 12, 2025, the death anniversary of Padmini Varkey, at Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan.  

T.N. Seema delivered the memorial lecture.

A collection of stories written by women titled "Pennkathakal" was released by T.N. Seema at the event. Smt. Shantha Jose received the first copy.  

The collection,published by Paridhi Publications, comprises stories submitted to the short story competition conducted by the Devaki Warrier  Memorial.