Kar Sewa Dal: A lifeline for patients & needy at Kullu hospital
The Kar Sewa Dal, an organisation offering over 25 types of free services, has become a lifeline for patients, attendants and visitors at Kullu’s Regional Hospital. Operating round-the-clock, the organisation ensures no one is left unattended, especially abandoned or dependent patients.
According to Mandeep Singh, the organisation’s president, the Kar Sewa Dal currently cares for about 50 abandoned patients. Volunteers manage their daily hygiene, provide food, medicines and attend to other basic needs. In cases of demise, the organisation also performs last rites as per the rituals.
A notable initiative, ‘Nanak Roti’, launched on December 1, provides free meals to patients and their caretakers through coupons redeemable at partnered eateries. Singh invited donors to contribute by sponsoring meals, costing Rs 50 per person. Furthermore, every morning, hot milk is distributed across hospital wards after prayers at the Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Kullu.
The helpdesk at the hospital offers assistance with a wide range of amenities, including crutches, wheelchairs, oxygen concentrators, blankets, heaters and nebulisers, all free of cost. Volunteers also help senior citizens and pregnant women avoid standing in queues and provide financial aid to needy patients.
Beyond the hospital, the organisation addresses broader social needs. It runs free tuitions for underprivileged children in seven locations, distributes essential supplies like shoes, coats, and study materials to students, and offers monthly rations to widows, elderly people and others unable to earn a livelihood. Employment opportunities are provided to widows, people with disabilities, and economically weaker individuals to help them sustain their families.
The Kar Sewa Dal also extends assistance to disaster-affected individuals by providing basic necessities and financial support for treatment.
Mandeep Singh emphasised that the organisation’s success is due to the grace of the Almighty and collective efforts of volunteers. He urged the government to recognise and support such philanthropic initiatives, as these critical services often fill gaps not covered by governmental programmes.
