MUMBAI: The IBN Network is partnering with Outlook to organise the “IBN7 Diamond States Awards” on 22 September. The awards will recognise human and social development efforts by various Indian states. It will assess the benefits and impact of the state on the common man.

The awards will take place over a panel discussion with chief ministers of various states conducted by IBN Network editor-in-chief Rajdeep Sardesai and IBN7 managing editor Ashutosh. The theme of the discussion is “Has power in India shifted from Centre to the states”.

As a build up to the awards, IBN7and CNN-IBN will telecast multiple on-air specials and stories and factoids on each of the states.

As the independent knowledge partner, Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) will manage the process, methodology and the data for arriving at the best states for the various categories. The editorial board along with the jury, will oversee the selection process and ratify the findings.

The award categories in IBN7 “Diamond states awards” consist of Healthcare, Education, Employment generation and training, Poverty Reduction, Civic Amenities, Women Empowerment, Citizen Security, Eco-Friendly, Grass Roots Development and E-governance along with three special categories - India’s Best Small State, Best Emerging State and Best State .

Sardesai says, “In a time when India as a country is on an economic overdrive, it is very important for every state to contribute to its potential for the next level of growth. The states need to facilitate inclusive development by exploiting their strengths and it is very pleasing that there are states & bodies which are working in this direction. We are very happy to announce IBN7 Diamond State Awards to encourage state governments and functionaries on various aspects of development for the better future of the country.”

Adds Ashutosh, adds, “Indian federal structure is the backbone of our country and it is very essential that states work towards human and social development, as well. We have come up with the concept of IBN7 Diamond State Awards and are delighted to partner with Outlook, a very trusted media brand in this initiative. We want to recognise the leaders of the states who are doing good work and in turn inspire others to work towards achieving the same.”