From Spirit to Strategy

Channeling Punjab's Sewa for Lasting Impact

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When administration falters in its basic functions, the public loses confidence in the government's ability to deliver them from agony.

While this often results in chaos, suffering, misery and dejection, in Punjab, this administrative failure brings to the surface the inherent spirit of sewa (selfless service) and a helpful attitude, best explained by the state of Chardikala (eternal optimism).

The deep-seated reasons for this remarkable resilience could be found in the history, philosophy, genetics and religion of the region, which have perpetually instilled a powerful sense of community and social responsibility.

In the farflung villages and deras (farmhouses) near the banks of the Ravi along the border and settlements along the Sutlej and Beas, the first responders, when the floodwaters peaked, wasn't the government agencies or rescue boats that broke the silence; it was the selfless, risky action of young farmers driving their own tractor-trolleys to ferry food and pull families to safety.

A spontaneous and inspiring mobilization occurred across the state:

Groups, individuals, societies, common people, and above all, the youth came forward to lead relief and rescue efforts.

Punjabi stars, singers, entrepreneurs, and people from all walks of life contributed heavily, devising their own ingenious ways to stem the tide of disaster and provide succour.

Their efforts ranged from physically bringing in tractors and manpower to build embankments and level fields, to constructing temporary boats and taking great physical risks to save lives.

And, crucially, in the immediate aftermath of the floods, the spirit of solidarity continues: Punjabis, especially the farming community, have once again come forward with machines and manual labour to help level the fields and remove silt in the affected areas, ensuring the land can be salvaged for the next harvest.