 Sekhar was a tireless champion for the rights of Malaysian plantation workers and their progeny, mostly ethnic Indians, and made it an important part of his life's work to make sure that they received a monthly wage and due recognition from the government for their contributions to the economy of the nation.As one of Asia's most effective scientists, Sekhar received the 1973 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service and many other awards, local and international, for his efforts.The Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) and Government of Malaysia, in recognition of his excellent service to the nation, bestowed upon him the title of 'Tan Sri'.