Babaji has been involved in services in and for the Punjab for over 30 years. He stressed again and again of a strong commitment to Sikh values of contributing to improve life (of service, seva, through deeds not belief).
Situated in a poor area, out-migration is common and people don’t return. In addition, because they are lacking in the villages, there is need for health and education services. Through the initiatives of the Mission Hospital, efforts are being made to instruct the villagers about their health (food & exercise) and help rid themselves of substance addiction through literature and meetings. Primary health concerns are blood pressure, heart problems, basic health care, diabetes, and drug and alcohol addiction. HIV/AIDS has become a problem as well. Fifteen years ago, there were no reported cases in Punjab. Truck drivers traveling to major cities visit prostitutes and contract STDS, passing these on to their wives and other partners.
Established in 1993, the hospital began with fifty beds and now has over 200. It is the only hospital in the rural area and a trauma center is being built. When the hospital started, most were in favor of it but there was much jealously over the services to be offered. With its privately funded rural nursing facility, the hospital is regarded as a model institution in the area. At present, it is possible to recruit choice doctors, nurses, and technicians – offering them higher pay than government and other private hospitals. Many NRI (Non-Resident Indian) doctors come here for seva; most are from Canada and the US.
The nursing college was established in 1998 and offers a three-year BSc degree. Prior to this college, there were four nursing colleges in Punjab and two were Christian. Most Indian nurses are of Christian background; a large number are from Punjab and Kerala.
Affiliated to the University of British Columbia (UBC), exacting educational standards are met concerning the curriculum, maintenance, and overall performance of the college. Each year, four outstanding students are sent to UBC on an exchange program. Likewise, UBC students come to India. Graduates of the college go abroad to Canada, the US, the UK, and other places. Many graduates work in the local villages, advising about basic health issues. Babaji hopes to start a private medical college next years if the permits are attained.
I really enjoy our question & answer session with Babaji. He’s doing a good thing; offering much needed services and offering young people a chance to succeed at an education relevant to the changing needs of society. Babaji challenged our young minds, leaving us with a question: Do people or events create primary strands in history.
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