"Shelter Home Enhancements: Latest Updates"

Children Activity : (Volleyball and Judo)

On February 4, 2024, Four children, Vishnu in ( Judo) and Ninder (Male Volleyball), Amandeep & Soni (Female Volleyball)  from Prabh Aasra Unified Family participated in State Selection Trials at Special Olympics Bharat Punjab ”at sport complex in Mohali, Punjab and all of them were selected for National level Special Olympics Bharat Punjab which was held in Feb and March 2024.

"On February 14 to February 18, 2024, during the National level 'SPECIAL OLYMPICS BHARAT', Volleyball match was held in Gujarat in which our children Ninder Singh won the Silver medal and  Amandeep Kaur and Soni won the Bronze medal

From March 27 to March 31, 2024, the National " SPECIAL OLYMPICS BHARAT" Judo match took place in Delhi in which our child Vishnu won the Silver Medal.

(Male & Female National Power-lifting Tournament)

On October 2, 2024, two residents of Prabh Aasra, Surinder Pal and Jyoti, went to Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, to participate in the State Power-lifting event at the Special Olympics Bharat National Tournament. “Jyoti” secured the 3rd position in Squat and the 3rd position in Deadlift in the female category, earning herself the Bronze medal.  “Surinder Pal Singh” achieved the Silver medal in Deadlift and the Bronze medal in Bench Press.

Male & Female State & National Badminton & Table tennis

On February 19, 2024, Special Olympics Bharat Punjab organized Badminton and Table Tennis State Selection Trials at Prabh Aasra Unified Family under the supervision of SOB members. Children from all over Punjab State participated in the trials for various games held at Prabh Aasra. The  children of Prabh Aasra “Parveen” and “Vishnu”  were selected in the National of badminton and Table Tennis respectively.

From March 8 to March 11, 2024, following a triumphant performance in the state-level Table Tennis tournament, Vishnu showcased his exceptional skills at the National Level Special Olympics Bharat Table Tennis tournament held in Hoshiarpur. Vishnu emerged as the ultimate victor, clinching the coveted Gold Medal in the fiercely contested competition.

 State & National Cycling & Swimming

On February 27, 2024, Ramo Devi showcased her cycling prowess and secured her spot in the team. Building on this achievement, from March 18 to March 22, 2024, she competed in the Special Olympics Bharat Cycling tournament held in Panchkula, Haryana. Despite a fiercely competitive field, Ramo Devi demonstrated remarkable determination, finishing in 4th position.

National Championship Basketball

On March 4, 2024, The children of Prabh Aasra “Arbaaz” and “Shyamu” participated in the male category, while Vishnu, Ritu, and Kajal competed among the females at the District Trials held in Ludhiana. Arbaaz secured his place in the male category, while Vishnu and Ritu were selected to represent Punjab in the State Special Olympics Bharat basketball event. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the National Level female basketball match was canceled.

From March 22 to March 26, 2024, the child of Prabh Aasra “Arbaaz” competed in the National Basketball Tournament organized by Special Olympics Bharat in Pondicherry. Representing Punjab, “Arbaaz” and his team displayed exceptional teamwork and determination, earning them the Bronze medal in the competition.

Invitation to Selection of NGO for Excellence Awards 2023-24  

On February 25, 2024,Sh.Shamsher Singh and Madam Rajinder Kaur, the founders of Prabh Aasra Unified Family were honored  for their unique contribution in giving back to the society by Mr. Sukhwinder Singh Uppal, President   of Chandigarh Management for Excellence Awards 2023-24.

Disha Indian Awards 2024

On March 21, 2024, Punjab Governor honored 17 women and 4 men, including “Bibi Rajinder Kaur” (Co-founder of Prabh Aasra Unified Family), at the Disha Indian Awards ceremony. Organized by Disha Women Welfare Trust, the event celebrates outstanding individuals. Governor Banwari Lal Purohit commended the trust's efforts in promoting women's empowerment.

Enduring Struggle and Restoration of Electricity at Prabh Aasra

In the month of January, 2024, the Electricity Department (PSPCL) had disconnected the electricity of ‘Prabh Aasra’, which led to alarming consequences, including a spike in resident deaths. During the time of disconnection of electricity, the institute lost 14 inmates. This power outage had also disrupted water supply, cooking, laundry, warmth provision, and essential health equipment, posing significant challenges. 

Founder Sh. Shamsher Singh, co-founder Smt. Rajinder Kaur, and concerned individuals had repeatedly urged government authorities for the restoration of the institution's electricity connection. A press conference was also convened to amplify our plea to the government.

On April 9, 2024, various farmers, relegious and social unions staged a protest rally in ‘Padiala’ village, condemning the electricity disconnection at the institute. They fervently urged the government to swiftly restore power to the institution. Simultaneously, Mr. Baltej Singh Pannu   Director (Media Relations) in Punjab CMO had approached the government to restore the electricity of the Prabh Aasra.

Under mounting pressure from various Farmer Unions, Social Activists, Religious organizations and other concerned individuals, the Government has restored the electricity connection to this institution on 24th April 2024. 

"On April 1, 2024, SCHOTT POONAWALLA in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, generously donated a Paratransit Bus to facilitate transportation for individuals with physical disabilities. This contribution will ensure the smooth transportation of students to and from school, as well as provide vital support to the mentally and physically challenged residents of the Universal Disabled Care Taker Social Welfare Society (Prabh Aasra). This gesture embodies a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and enhancing the quality of life for those with disabilities in our community."  

On April 13, 2024, children from Prabh Aasra showcased their talents at a cultural competition for intellectually disabled children at Gems Cambridge International School in Hoshiarpur. Children of Prabh Aasra,” Vishnu” (solo dance), and  Gidha Team secured 3rd place. All participants received certificates, emphasizing the event's significance in promoting inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities.

On April 27 to 28, 2024, Madam Rajinder Kaur, Co-Founder of Prabh Aasra Unified Family, orchestrated a memorable excursion for the children (inmates) to the historic city of Sri Anandpur Sahib. They immersed themselves in the rich history of the region, exploring landmarks like Dastane Khalsa (Ajooba), Gurdwara Sahib and the ancient forts that embody the essence of Sikh culture. This experience not only provided them with a glimpse into the past but also fostered a deeper appreciation for their cultural heritage. 

Langar and Dining Hall :

With the generous support of donors, our Langar hall operated smoothly. However, the power disconnection posed challenges for our automatic Chapati machine and cooking for 500 persons thrice daily. Despite installing a large tawa, struggles persisted for four months until power was restored. To ensure efficient staff operations and minimize smoke, a new chimney was installed.

Yet, our Langar hall still lacks essential items for full functionality:

2 Onion & Potato Trolleys,

3 Deep Freezers, 3 Vegetable Racks,         

1 Peeler & Washer Machine,

3 Serving Trolleys (5 compartments each), and 1 Baine Marie. 

Vocational  & Skill Development Courses :

 In a collaboration with Read India, Prabh Aasra launched skill development courses in June 2023, to empowering society residents for self-sufficiency and aiding underprivileged students who cannot afford expensive courses. Prabh Aasra successfully completed three batches of Computer, GDA, and Stitching and Sewing courses. On April 4, 2024, a grand Certificate Distribution ceremony was held, hosted by Prabh Aasra and Read India, where Mr. Akhilesh Ji and Mr. Faizan Ji distributed certificates to the children. Now, admissions are open for new batches, continuing our mission to uplift and empower our community.

Construction of additional building Padiala & Jhanjeri shelter home:

In Padiala, construction of the children's home building is nearing completion, with the interior work progressing steadily. Essential facilities such as electricity, washrooms, nursing stations, and the installation of a lift for disabled children have been completed. Although some pending tasks are still underway, the building is nearly ready for occupancy. With the number of children increasing daily, the move to this new facility is imminent and eagerly anticipated.  

At the Jhanjeri branch Shelter home, construction is underway for the Genset panel area and Mortuary, while work on the Lift is also progressing. Additionally, the pathway leading to the Langar hall has been completed. These developments signify significant progress in enhancing the infrastructure of the facility, ensuring better functionality and accessibility for all.

Admission of Inhabitants :

During the last three months, the society has been grappling with electricity issues. Despite this challenge, we have continued to provide care and support to 25  individuals admitted from various government departments. Among them, some cases were particularly critical. Here are the stories of few destitute.

                     An abandoned girl was discovered lost on the Kharar, Kurali Road near Prabh Aasra and Gurdwara Kartarsar Sahib Padiala on the evening of January 10, 2024. She remained tight-lipped about her identity until a compassionate gentleman contacted 112, prompting the arrival of the police administration team. Upon being questioned by a female police officer, she reluctantly disclosed her name as Preet.

The police and Prabh Aasra’s members, in an act of kindness, arranged for her temporary stay at the institution for the night. However, later that same night, at 11 o'clock, a family arrived at Prabh Aasra Sanstha in search of their missing daughter. Upon further investigation, it was confirmed that the girl in question belonged to this family. Her full name was revealed to be Jaspreet Kaur. Her father resides with the Nihang Singhs at Harian Vela, while her mother lives separately with her elder brother. Jaspreet had been staying with her grandfather and younger brother, but her grandfather had recently passed away, leaving her alone for most of the day as her brother worked.

Due to the solitude and loss, she experienced, Jaspreet fell into a state of depression, which led her to resist returning home with her family. As a result, she is currently under the care of the institution, where she is receiving the necessary treatment and support to overcome her emotional challenges.

            Recently, the Police of Sri Fatehgarh Sahib encountered a situation where an unidentified woman was in dire need of care, treatment, and shelter. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, they swiftly brought her to the compassionate care of Prabh Aasra Unified Family, where she was received in a state of profound distress and critical condition.

Upon assessment, it was observed that she exhibited hyperactive and aggressive behavior, warranting immediate attention. In light of this, S. Shamsher Singh, with a decisive stance, directed the medical team of Prabh Aasra to facilitate her transfer to Prabh Aasra Hospital Kurali. Here, the proficient medical staff promptly administered initial medical interventions and expedited the necessary diagnostic tests, including X-rays, to ascertain her condition accurately.

Following the meticulous medical protocol, she was subsequently admitted to Prabh Aasra Unified Family for comprehensive treatment and holistic support. With dedicated medical care and unwavering commitment, her remarkable journey to recovery unfolded swiftly, restoring her health and vitality.

As her physical health improved, she gradually regained the ability to communicate and provide crucial information about her family. This pivotal revelation enabled our diligent team to initiate the process of tracing and contacting her family members, who were promptly notified and extended a heartfelt invitation to reunite with their loved one at Prabh Aasra.

In a heartwarming culmination, her family, filled with gratitude and relief, arrived at Prabh Aasra, embracing her with open arms as they prepared to embark on the journey back home, where she would continue her recovery surrounded by the love and support of her cherished family.