Jashoda Sadan Balashram, the pioneer institution in the field of child care in Orissa, completed nine years. This shelter home for destitute, orphan and poor children was established in 1999, after the devastating super cyclone in the state. It has been providing shelter, education, health care and fulfilling all the requirements of those children who are the worst victims of that unforgettable natural calamity. This institution is the brain child of RSS and VHP and has been recognised by the Government of Orissa as an ideal child care centre-cum-orphanage. A group of young swayamsevaks successfully manage this unique project without taking any government aid.
Jashoda Sadan celebrated its 10th Annual Day. On this occasion a meeting of well-wishers, donors, volunteers and intellectuals was organised. Well-known industrialist Shri Madanlal Agarwal, senior advocate of Orissa High Court Shri Manoj K Mishra and leading writer of Oriya literature Prof Dr Baishnab Samal graced the occasion. Shri Agarwal expressed his utter satisfaction on the philanthropic work of Jashoda Sadan and announced his contribution of rupees five lakh for this noble work. Shri Mishra in his speech said, “Not only the financial help but emotional care is also needed for these tiny tots who have lost their families. Today, I learn a lesson that though financial help is very important aspect for such a noble work, along with that we must give our time to look after these children. I appeal to all of you to dedicate your time for the service of these children which will bring you divine satisfaction.”
Prof Samal said, “Jashoda Sadan is a unique sewa project having a nationalistic goal to build national character. It has shown the light that what should be the aims and objectives of a child care project. This institution has been successfully experimenting Indian culture and values in its own work to make its inmates noble citizens. Children are the replica of God, let’s worship them with the flower of our dedication and emotion.”
The meeting was presided over by Shri Kamal K Agarwal, the president of Jashoda Sadan Balashram. Retired Judge and writer Shri Raghunath Dash was felicitated with ‘Jashoda Samman-2009’ for his remarkable contribution and dedication towards nationalistic ideology. Shri Sebati Nayak and Shri Niranjan Sahoo were also felicitated for their contributions to the children of Balashram.
