Introduction

The “HIMALAYAN FOOTHILLS SOCIAL WELFARE FOUNDATION” is an organization which was derived from the collective ideas of 7 (seven) like minded people; who by chance had visited the “DOOARS” region of Jalpaiguri District in the State of West Bengal of the Indian Sub – Continent during the last winters.

They had made a Tour in the said region without any pre – plans and were not sure of visiting any stipulated location. Upon arrival at the Railway Station, they all opined to visit a place called HAMILTONGANJ” in the Dooars region. The region is famous for its tea gardens as well as wildlife sanctuaries. On the very cold evening, all surrounded over a “camp fire” and preparing their own dinner, a discussion was initiated by one person of the group; who pointed out that during their entire course of journey they have witnessed the dilapidated condition of the people, dwelling in this region. Inspite of huge potentialities in the field of tea production and tourism, the condition of the people in this locality was in doldrums. Poverty, illiteracy, poor health conditions, social evils, superstition, etc. were looming large in the lives of the local mass. Scopes for eradicating these so called social ailments of the society had been in a way or other, misutilized or manhandled during the bygone time.

The members of the team embarked upon an idea to form an organization, which will play a very small but effective role in bettering the lives of the common people of this geographical location. The organization was formed as a welfare foundation for upliftment and betterment of the socio – economic condition of the poor people of the region. Obstacles are large and looming but that hurdle must be overcome with the zeal & passion for establishing something positive and aiding the ailing people; which was so decided as an “OATH” on that very night. Financial constraints is one of the principal obstacle/ hindrance but the members of the welfare organization believe that with their constant and untiring efforts and the never ending passion for uplifting the condition of the people will soon over shadow such constraints.

At this juncture, we would like to appeal to our entire well – wishers, friends, families, social & cultural organizations, the government as well to assist us in every possible means, so that our goal and objective to serve the poor and destitute, sees the light of the day. We sincerely believe that with the co-ordinated and cohesive efforts of all the sectors as mentioned above, our dream will definitely take a positive step. Our efforts will definitely play a very small but significant role in the lives of the people, who are still living in dark times, surrounded by poverty, hunger, illiteracy, superstitions, ill – health and all other social evils. Our efforts would like to make them think that they can also come out form their present deplorable plight and live a life, devoid of hunger, poverty, illiteracy, etc.