Date: 18th January 2026
Venue: Sanmati Bal Niketan, Manjari, Pune
(A unit of Sindhutai Sapkal (Mai) Foundation)
Vishwakarma University organised a social outreach activity titled “Hands of Hope” on 18th January 2026, with the aim of nurturing social responsibility, community engagement, and empathetic learning among students and faculty members. The activity involved a visit to Sanmati Bal Niketan, Manjari, Pune, functioning under the esteemed Sindhutai Sapkal (Mai) Foundation, which is widely known for its dedicated service towards orphaned and abandoned children.
Upon arrival, the faculty members and students were warmly welcomed by the caretaker of Sanmati Bal Niketan. The caretaker provided a detailed orientation about the Sindhutai Sapkal Foundation, its guiding philosophy, and the extensive network of its branches across different regions. This interaction offered participants a deeper understanding of the foundation’s holistic approach towards child welfare and rehabilitation.
Visit to Sanmati Bal Niketan and Mai’s Legacy
The team was guided through different facilities of Sanmati Bal Niketan, including residential rooms and common areas. The visit also included a dedicated section where Sindhutai Sapkal (Mai)’s awards, mementos, photographs, and personal belongings are preserved. The inspirational words and messages displayed on the walls were deeply heart-touching and conveyed Mai’s lifelong struggle, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving abandoned children.
Institutional Structure and Child Welfare Practices
During the interaction, Pratap Sir explained that Sanmati Bal Niketan is exclusively for boys. The institution caters to children coming from diverse and difficult socio-economic backgrounds. The Sanshtha ensures that every child receives care, protection, education, emotional support, and moral guidance to help them overcome their past challenges and build a dignified life.
It was shared that the Sanshtha provides continuous support to children from the age of 6 years up to 24 years, ensuring care until they become independent and self-reliant. Along with basic necessities, the institution assists children in obtaining essential documents such as Aadhaar cards and other legal records, which are crucial for education, employment, and future stability.
Success Stories of Independence
The caretakers highlighted a notable achievement by sharing that in the previous month, the institution bid farewell to three boys who had become fully independent. These individuals have successfully secured stable employment, achieved financial independence, and even purchased their own vehicles, reflecting the effectiveness of the Sanshtha’s long-term support system.
AI Awareness and Learning Activity for Children
A special highlight of the visit was the AI awareness and learning activity conducted by student coordinators Om and Namash. A total of 60 children actively participated in this interactive session. The activity began with an introduction to basic computer concepts, gradually progressing towards an age-appropriate understanding of Artificial Intelligence.
The students also developed simple AI-based games for the children, making the learning process engaging and enjoyable. The children showed immense enthusiasm while interacting with the games, and the entire environment transformed into one filled with curiosity, laughter, and joy. The atmosphere truly reflected happiness spreading through little hands, making the experience joyful and memorable for both the children and the visitors.
The “Hands of Hope” outreach activity was a profoundly enriching experience for faculty members and students of Vishwakarma University. The visit not only provided insight into meaningful social service but also demonstrated how technology, when combined with compassion, can create powerful positive impact.
