Though tens of its illustrious men and women were recognized for their meritorious and outstanding service, it was only in 2003 that the institution itself was conferred the National Award. The Award was for the Best Employer category for employing the maximum number of disabled persons in the institution. Out of the total staff count of 83, 52 persons are disabled. They are engaged in office and outreach work, as well as production, cultivation and security staff.

The Award was received by Father George Kannathanam, the Director of Sumanahalli, on the 3rd of December, in a function at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, from the President of India, Mr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.