Mr. Sourav Mukherjee stands as a distinguished social entrepreneur, visionary environmentalist, and the founder-director of the Kolkata Society for Cultural Heritage (KSCH), a United Nations ECOSOC-recognized organisation celebrated for its transformative contributions to sustainable rural development and the preservation of intangible cultural heritage. Commencing his professional journey as a Database Administrator at IBM, Mr. Mukherjee soon discovered that his true calling lay far beyond corporate corridors. With unwavering resolve, he transitioned into the sphere of social innovation, dedicating his life’s work to uplifting rural and marginalised communities across India through a unique blend of technology, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment. Under his dynamic leadership, KSCH has orchestrated the plantation of over 2.3 million mangrove saplings in the fragile ecosystems of the Sundarbans, thereby fortifying natural climate defences. His initiatives have generated more than 2,185 kW of renewable green energy and directly enhanced the lives of over 300,000 individuals nationwide.
Empowering women has remained a cornerstone of his mission, with over 7,000 women-led self-help groups gaining economic independence through his guidance. His vision of “model villages” has materialised in the form of rural communities equipped with solar microgrids, clean cookstoves, and modern educational technologies, bridging the divide between tradition and progress. Demonstrating a rare confluence of innovation and compassion, Mr. Mukherjee has championed groundbreaking solutions such as AI-powered mangrove monitoring systems, blockchain-enabled donation platforms, and GIS-based environmental mapping—tools that not only safeguard nature but also optimise social impact. Among his many noteworthy ventures, the creation of Swayamsiddha stands as a shining testament to his commitment to heritage preservation. This government-endorsed brand has elevated rural artisans to the global stage, ensuring their crafts find resonance and demand in international markets while preserving the authenticity of traditional artistry.
Beyond the ambit of KSCH, Mr. Mukherjee lends his leadership as the Chairman of the West Bengal Cyclists’ Association, an entity affiliated with the Cycling Federation of India, promoting eco-friendly mobility and healthy lifestyles. His expertise and counsel are also sought in his capacity as an advisor to the Asian-African Chamber of Commerce & Industry. His remarkable influence extends across continents, as evidenced by his inclusion among the 100 Most Influential Africans, a rare distinction underscoring his global footprint in sustainable development and cultural diplomacy. Further solidifying his international stature, he is an esteemed member of the African Institute for Organisation Development (AIFOD), where he contributes to cross-continental collaborations in governance, innovation, and socio-economic advancement.
In recognition of his exceptional service and visionary leadership, Mr. Mukherjee has been honoured with a constellation of prestigious awards, including the Times Power Icon of the Year, Economic Times Influential Personality 2023, and the WPDO Peace Medallion Award, alongside numerous accolades from national and international bodies for his pioneering work in environmental and community welfare. An alumnus of the revered Jadavpur University, he has further fortified his academic credentials with global certifications from Pennsylvania State University, equipping him with a rare blend of technical acumen and humanistic vision. Guided by his deeply held belief that “development is not charity but a matter of dignity,” Mr. Mukherjee continues to weave a legacy where technological innovation serves as the handmaiden of human empowerment, and where the preservation of nature and culture forms the foundation of a truly sustainable future.
