PRAVASI BHARATIYA SAMMAN 2025: Bonthala Subbaiah Setty Ramesh Babu committed to community service
Ramesh Babu’s dedication to community welfare and philanthropy has profoundly impacted Uganda’s socio-economic landscape and strengthened the cultural and economic bonds between India and Uganda
Bonthala Subbaiah Setty Ramesh Babu, a distinguished member of Uganda’s Indian diaspora, has been honored with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) for 2025. This accolade, the highest conferred upon overseas Indians by the Government of India, acknowledges his transformative contributions to community service.
The PBSA was presented during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, held from January 8–10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the award at the event’s Valedictory Session, symbolizing the deep and enduring connection between India and its global diaspora.
A visionary leader, Ramesh Babu serves as the Managing Director of Kiboko Group of Companies, a leading conglomerate in Uganda with diverse business interests, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and distribution. Under his stewardship, the company has significantly contributed to Uganda’s economic growth while fostering robust trade relations between India and Uganda.
As Ramesh Babu continues to champion meaningful social causes, his achievements serve as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of service and the enduring influence of the Indian diaspora worldwide
Beyond his corporate achievements, Ramesh Babu is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to philanthropy. Through his initiatives, he has improved healthcare access, supported education, and championed social welfare in Uganda. Leveraging the resources and expertise of the Kiboko Group, he has launched impactful programs that deliver essential medicines to underserved communities, enhance educational opportunities, and promote skill development for the youth. These efforts have not only elevated the quality of life for countless individuals but also strengthened cultural and social ties between the Indian and Ugandan communities.
The recognition of Ramesh Babu with the PBSA underscores the vital role played by the Indian diaspora in advancing community development and enhancing India’s global stature. His inspiring journey from a business leader to a community service pioneer epitomizes the spirit of the award, which celebrates those who contribute meaningfully to their host countries while maintaining strong ties with India.
The legacy of service and social responsibility is also evident within his family. His daughter, Rukmini Bonthala Babu, serves as an Executive Director at Kiboko Group and Abacus Pharma and is an Advisory Board member of African Women and Girls, an international NGO operating in Uganda. Her work reflects the family’s enduring commitment to empowerment and social change.
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