PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
The 30th Mahasamadhi Day of the founder of the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT), Dr Swami Rama was observed with reverence at the Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU), Jolly Grant in the presence of the Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (retd).
Singh, in his address, described Swami Rama as a ‘heritage of humanity’ whose life was devoted to the service of mankind. He hailed Swami Rama’s efforts in promoting compassion, education and healthcare as instruments of human uplift. Earlier, he had visited the Swami Rama Centre where he paid floral tributes to the founder and viewed a photo exhibition depicting Dr Swami Rama’s life, philosophy and humanitarian work.
The president of SRHU and member of the governing body of HIHT, Dr Vijay Dhasmana shared memorable anecdotes related to the founder and highlighted the journey of the institution. He reiterated that HIHT continues to follow Swami Rama’s vision of selfless service and holistic development.
During the ceremony, 39 employees of the institution were honoured with the ‘Outstanding Employee Awards’ in various categories. The HIHT Annual Calendar 2026 was also released on the occasion.
Importantly, the Swami Rama Humanitarian Award 2025 was conferred this year upon Sumangali Seva Ashram based in Karnataka — a social organisation dedicated to community welfare. The award comprises Rs10 lakh, a citation and a gold medal. The founder and chairperson of Sumangali Seva Ashram, S G Sushilamma received the honour on behalf of the institution. Founded in 1975, the ashram has been serving destitute women, orphaned children, elderly and economically disadvantaged communities.
Since 2003, the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT) has been presenting the Swami Rama Humanitarian Award annually to an individual or organisation contributing exceptionally to the fields of social welfare, environment, science, economics or spirituality.
Further, the rural development department of SRHU awarded scholarships to 108 students from Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri and Tehri districts. Each student received Rs 9,700 as part of the university’s outreach initiative. They include those who are differently abled, orphaned, living with a single parent or from economically challenged backgrounds but have demonstrated excellence in academics.
