________________
This idea could not take a concrete shape due to early demise of the Saint
After his death no substantial progress is made towards the fulfilment of the objects of this institution, except holding seminars on philosophical subjects and religious gatherings. Shri Manibhai Patel, an ardent devotee of the Saint who has dedicated his whole life to the causes dear to him and Meeraben another devotee of the same type are presently taking care of this institution.
The first President of this institution was late Shri Ratilal Bahechardas Mehta followed by Sarva-Shri late Hiralal Doshi, Mansukhlal Doshi, Latitaben Shah and Maganlal Doshi who is still continuing to guide its activities.
Santbal Award Foundation :
One more institution which has come into existence after the death of Santbalji should be mentioned here. In the year 1994, the Gundi institution, namely, Bhal-Nalkantha Prayogik Sangh got the “Darshak AWARD" of Rupees one Lac for doing outstanding work in Rural development in Gujarat. Both the above-mentioned institutions, namely, Bhal-Nalkantha and Vishwa Vatsalya Prayogik Sangh thereupon declared that they would untilise this amount of Award by creating a separate Public Charitable Fund called “Vishwa Vatsalya and Santbal Award Foundation” at Ahmedabad. This foundation is actually established and registered as Public Charitable Trust. This trust has declared three Awards to be given every year as under :
(1) All India Award of Rupees one Lac for those institutions or individuals who have done outstanding work in furtherance of Gandhian ideas and Santbal philosophy.
86
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
