In a touching tribute to civilian service, Advocate Mita Banerjee was recently honored by the Indian Army in Kolkata—a recognition that highlights her unwavering commitment to the nation beyond judicial avenues. Originally scheduled to celebrate her participation in the United Nations General Assembly in Malaysia in July 2025, the ceremony instead became a platform for acknowledging her exceptional legal and patriotic contributions.

Held in Kolkata on August 7, 2025, the ceremony was marked by heartfelt appreciation. Attendees lauded her tireless efforts in conducting legal literacy seminars for both the Indian Army and CRPF units, which have empowered service members with critical legal awareness and access.

Advocate Mita Banerjee’s journey is rooted in social activism and legal advocacy. Long before the current honor, she earned acclaim at a young age—at just 11 years old, she took an anti-drug oath at Fort William through Rotary International, setting the stage for lifelong service and activism. Hailing from Kolkata, she has been a recognized figure for her dedication to social welfare and legal equity, often using her platform to uplift underserved communities.

Her accolades include numerous prestigious titles such as Nation Pride Award, Rajiv Gandhi Icon Award, India’s Iron Lady, Global Peace Award, and being named among the Top 100 Influential Indians 2022. Her reputation as a formidable legal professional and social advocate has earned her widespread respect across the nation.

The August 2025 ceremony’s origin story is equally compelling. While the planned felicitation centered on her UNGA representation, the Army seized the moment to highlight Mita Banerjee’s broader public service—particularly her educational outreach through legal literacy workshops tailored for security personnel. These sessions are said to have left a lasting impact, equipping Air Force members and CRPF units with valuable legal understanding that benefits both them and the communities they serve.

This recognition by the Indian Army highlights the rarely spotlighted but powerful connection between civilian expertise and national defense. Mita’s seminars not only reinforce the rule of law but also foster trust and awareness within communities where armed forces operate—strengthening civil-military relations in subtle yet profound ways.

Her legal outreach complements a broader mosaic of activism. Known for her advocacy for marginalized groups—ranging from transgender individuals to sex workers—she extends her service beyond the courtroom. Whether sponsoring villages with resources like dug water wells, orchestrating literacy drives in Naxal-prone areas, or even arranging dignified final rites for unidentified deceased persons using her own resources, Mita’s selfless actions echo her motto of service above self.

Receiving recognition from the Indian Army underscores both her diverse impact and the growing acknowledgment of civilian contributions to national cohesion. The ceremony not only highlighted a single event but celebrated a career dedicated to enhancing legal awareness, social justice, and inclusive development.

In sum, this award places a well-deserved spotlight on Advocate Mita Banerjee—a legal stalwart whose activism cuts across community, equality, and education. The Indian Army’s tribute elevates her legacy, bridging public service with patriotism, and reminding us that citizenship itself is a form of devotion to the nation.

*************************