The Vice President of India, Shri M Venkaiah Naidu and his spouse, Smt Usha Naidu today visited Matruchhaya girls’ orphanage at Ponda, about 40 kms from Panaji, Goa and interacted with the inmates and the staff. They were accompanied by their daughter, Smt. Deepa Venkat, who is the managing trustee of Swarna Bharat Trust and other family members.

Shri Naidu and Smt Usha Naidu were shown around the institution and apprised about the activities undertaken to ensure healthy growth and development of orphaned and destitute girls.

Complimenting the members of Matruchhaya Trust, the Vice President said that he was highly impressed with their dedicated work’ and lauded them for serving the society in the true spirit of India’s age-old philosophy of ‘Share and Care’. Shri Naidu said that through this spirit of 'seva', one can derive a lot of satisfaction. Recalling his association with Swarna Bharat Trust, he said he felt energised whenever he interacted with the children there.

Shri Naidu expressed happiness that more than 800 girls were placed in homes for adoption and that more than 30 girls were married. He also said that he was delighted to know that many of the inmates have excelled academically and also in sports activities.

The Vice President said that many NGOs were supplementing the efforts of the governments at the Centre and in the States through similar activities across the country. I urge the corporate sector to extend support under CSR to organisations that are rendering dedicated social service.

The Vice President was also briefed about other social projects undertaken by Matruchhaya Trust such as Bal Kalyan Ashram at Talauli for boys,  home for girls at Madgaon, Rugnashray, a short stay home for needy patients, among other initiatives. It maybe recalled that a group of social workers came together to start the NGO, Matruchhaya in 1976.

Hailing the world's largest vaccination drive that was kicked off today, Shri  Naidu said it was a matter of pride to the nation. It was also a great sign of our growing Atma Nirbharta. He complimented the scientists and the frontline COVID warriors for having worked selflessly and tirelessly to protect the lives of people.

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MS/RK/DP