IN today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, the pursuit of inner peace has emerged as a guiding light for many individuals seeking a more meaningful, fulfilling and socially responsible life. This journey toward inner tranquillity has the ability to cultivate benevolence, shaping individuals into compassionate, kind-hearted citizens. Shrimad Rajchandra Aatma Tatva Research Centre, an NGO that is leading the way in helping people develop kindheartedness and compassion, seeks to spread the Vitraag Vigyaan philosophy of universal peace. The Centre symbolises the coming together of people from many origins and faiths with a common goal of pursuing inner evolution for both themselves and most importantly the world around.
Spiritual guru Shree Premacharyaji set up the Shrimad Rajchandra Aatma Tatva Research Centre in Parli area of Raigarh, Maharashtra, a predominantly tribal area plagued by poverty, illiteracy and suffering. Over the last two decades the NGO through multiple interventions in health, education and livelihood generation has been a catalyst of change for thousands of residents of the area.
Enlightening young lives through education
In 2003, Parli grappled with a grim reality. Young children toiled in neighbouring breweries, burdened by providing for their family under harsh working conditions. Fate of girl children was even more bleak as they were compelled to take up duties of the household and care for younger siblings from a young age and were eventually married at a young age. The lack of educational facilities further added to the challenges, denying children even the slightest hope of breaking the cycle of poverty.
Amidst this adversity, a glimmer of hope emerged beneath a makeshift tree shelter – the birth of a fledgling school, giving education to a few. This was the beginning of
Shree Raj Educational Centre started by Shrimad Rajchandra Aatma Tatva Research Centre
Today, the school flourishes as a sanctuary of learning and has grown to provide quality education to over 900 students. The NGO takes care of all their needs including uniforms, books, tools, meals, and transport.
This village, where poverty and illiteracy once loomed, now stands as an example of what positive change can do. Children, once labouring, now don school uniforms and forge a new path for themselves and their families.
Healthcare for the underserved
Parli, being as underdeveloped as it was, suffered from severe lack of medical resources. There weren’t any proper health care centres across a 20 km radius. Villagers were forced to make arduous journeys to the district headquarters to get even basic medical care. In 2004, a team of dedicated doctors of the Centre initiated a transformative journey by organising voluntary medical camps, leading to the establishment of Shree Raj Medical Centre.
Transforming lives and empowering women
One of the foremost achievements of Shrimad Rajchandra Aatma Tatva Research Centre has been in the arena of women empowerment and livelihood generation. Parli initially faced a challenge as women withdrew children from school for temporary jobs. This led to the birth of ShramikNaariSangh (SaNiSa), dedicated to empowering women economically. Its brand “Chaakri,” meaning ‘service,’ trains and produces home-style delicacies and tiffin services in Parli and Mumbai, with women transitioning from underprivileged to empowered citizens.
‘Udaan,’ another brand under the society, uplifts tribal women, training them in diverse handicrafts. Prachi an inspiring SaNiSa member, launched ‘Divinite’ for needy women, crafting exquisite chocolates. Puro, led by Priyal, abandoned a corporate career for a socio-economic venture, creating chemical-free bath products from vegetarian ingredients.
SaNiSa’s offerings extend to corporate and social gifting, with plans to expand, form Self Help Groups, and invite more like-minded women. SaNiSa’s journey exemplifies the transformational power of women’s economic empowerment, from Parli to global reach.
Caring for the most vulnerable
Numerous impoverished individuals, including daily wage earners, struggle to afford even one proper meal daily, leading to severe malnourishment. Addressing this critical issue, the NGO initiated the Shree Raj Roti Centre, a food service program that offers highly subsidised meals to the underprivileged, including the impoverished, infirm, and elderly. This endeavour plays a crucial role in providing essential nutrition to the society’s most vulnerable segments.
The NGOs holistic approach towards spreading universal peace, including community programs and humanitarian efforts, reflects its commitment to uplifting society at all levels. It reminds us that true philanthropy of peace nourishes the spirit, mind, and heart, fostering a harmonious balance. As we reflect on the Center’s remarkable journey, it’s clear that its impact extends far beyond its initiatives. If you wish to support the organisation in its mission click the link.
Choosing to tread the proverbial road less travelled, Ramon embarked upon a career in journalism and spent over 8 years working for various media organisations. A deeper calling to create a sustainable impact in the lives of the less fortunate compelled him to join the social sector. Ramon is a minimalist at heart and an explorer in spirit.
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