SURINDER VERMA
Honoured for Media and Public Communication Award
Surinder Verma, a distinguished social activist, consumer rights advocate, and media professional, has been widely recognized for his exceptional contributions to investor awareness, consumer education, and public empowerment over the past three decades. His sustained efforts in promoting financial literacy and responsible citizenship have positioned him as a leading voice in the field of public awareness in India.
Born in Kot Kapura, Punjab, Surinder Verma has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to grassroots engagement and community development. With a strong academic foundation in History and Political Science from Panjab University, Chandigarh, he developed a nuanced understanding of governance, policy frameworks, and civic responsibility. This academic grounding has continued to inform his initiatives aimed at strengthening public awareness and social accountability.
Over the course of his professional journey, he served with the Food Corporation of India (FCI), where he played a significant role in public relations and media communication. His work in this capacity reflected a keen ability to translate complex institutional information into accessible content for the general public. Building on this experience, he ventured into publishing and editorial leadership, launching Consumer Power and Investors Update. These publications were designed to simplify financial concepts and empower individuals with the knowledge required to make informed decisions.
As a media professional, he has established himself as a credible and influential communicator. His work has consistently focused on bridging the gap between regulatory institutions and citizens by presenting information in a clear, responsible, and impactful manner. Through his editorial initiatives and public engagements, he has contributed significantly to enhancing financial awareness among diverse sections of society.
In 1994, he founded the Citizens Awareness Group (CAG), an organization that has since emerged as a prominent platform for social advocacy and public education. Under his leadership, the organization has spearheaded a wide range of initiatives addressing critical issues such as consumer rights, investor education, women’s empowerment, environmental awareness, and community health. His approach has been inclusive, ensuring that awareness campaigns reach underserved and marginalized communities.
The organization has collaborated with several leading regulatory bodies and institutions, including the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Additionally, it has partnered with major industry associations such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), and ASSOCHAM. These collaborations have significantly contributed to the design and implementation of impactful national awareness campaigns.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication and contributions, he was honoured with the title “Champion of Investor Education and Awareness – 2025” by SEBI and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). He has also co-authored the Investor Awareness Handbook and contributed to several publications under the aegis of SEBI. On this occasion, he was co-inaugurated alongside Shri Sanjeev Arora, Industry Minister, Government of Punjab, marking a significant milestone in his public service journey.
Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Citizens Awareness Group and as the Editor-in-Chief of the digital platform Such as Mirror365.com and Chandigarh Today. Through these roles, he continues to leverage media as a powerful tool for education, advocacy, and citizen empowerment.
His journey reflects a rare combination of vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public service. By consistently championing awareness, education, and accountability, he has made a lasting impact on society, establishing himself as a true advocate for informed citizenship in India.
