By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

A health camp was successfully organised at Rendha village on May 14, 2026, bringing much-needed medical care to people living in remote villages on the Gujarat–Madhya Pradesh border. The camp was conducted through the joint efforts of the Don Bosco Past Pupils Unit, Kawant, and the Primary Health Centre, Navalja, at Ayushyaman Arogya Mandir, Rendha.

Rendha village is situated on the outskirts of the Gujarat border and serves as a central place for many nearby villages where medical facilities and transport services are limited, especially during the summer season. Understanding the urgent need for accessible healthcare, DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant, took the initiative to organise this free health service for the local people.

The programme began at 9 a.m. with a brief inaugural session. The event was attended by Dr Pankaj Rathwa, MBBS, along with the medical team from Primary Health Centre, Navalja. Mr Hasmukh Christian, the Programme Officer, together with the staff members of DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant, were also present for the occasion.

Soon after the inauguration, villagers from Rendha and surrounding areas gathered at the camp site for medical check-ups and consultation. More than 70 patients received treatment during the camp. Many people were suffering from common summer-related illnesses such as sunstroke, fever, cough, cold, headache, body ache and general weakness. Dr Rathwa and the medical team carefully examined the patients and provided the necessary medicines free of cost through the support of the Primary Health Centre, Navalja.

The villagers expressed their gratitude for the initiative, as healthcare services are not easily available in the area. The Sarpanch of the village appreciated the efforts of the organisers and stated that such activities are greatly needed, especially during the hot summer months when travelling to hospitals becomes difficult due to the lack of public transport facilities.

The staff members of DISHA Don Bosco shared their satisfaction and happiness after seeing the positive response from the people. Their efforts helped many poor and needy families receive timely medical attention close to their homes.

Dr Pankaj Rathwa also expressed his joy at being part of the camp. He mentioned that although it had been difficult to adjust his schedule, serving people in remote and unreached villages gave him a deep sense of fulfilment and responsibility towards the community.

Mr Ranchod Rathwa, President of the Don Bosco Past Pupils Unit, Kawant, could not attend the programme due to an urgent meeting at his workplace. However, he conveyed his support and assured the organisers that the Past Pupils Unit would always remain ready to collaborate with DISHA Don Bosco in organising health services and welfare activities for the people whenever needed.

The health camp at Rendha once again highlighted the importance of community collaboration in reaching out to the poor and marginalised. Through this initiative, many villagers experienced care, compassion and hope, proving that even small efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living in remote areas.