BAPS relief operation in the earthquake affected areas of Kachchh has satisfied the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the people.
Seeing the outstanding services of BAPS which range from rescue and relief to rehabilitation, TIFAC (Department of Science and Technology Gov. of India), on Mar 15 2001 invited the coordinating committee of BAPS Relief Camp for a meeting where Dr. Abdul Kalam, one of the most respected and prominent scientists of India, the Chief of TIFAC and Chief Scientist Adviser to DM was prompt.
He was impressed by the activities of BAPS and expressed his willingness to visit BAPS Relief Camp.
He arrived at Swaminarayan Nagar (previously famous as Pramukh Swami Nagar) where BAPS has built a Tin-Tent City for 500 families. Some of the relief volunteers and sadhus took him around the camp and explained explained the rehabilitation process and the facilities provided like water, electricity, rations, sanitation, community hall and medical help. Dr. Kalam was impressed with the technical know-how of BAPS team who designed complete rehabilitation area where over 290 families have been provided temporary shelters. He was specially impressed by the perfect implementation of the air ventilation system at Swaminarayan Nagar - the first rehabilitation in entire earthquake affected area. Dr. Kalam was overwhelmed by the aura of divinity and dedication of sadhus and volunteers who are devoted to this relief and rehabilitation work. He also inquired about HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the divine leader of the organization. Dr. Kalam quoted 'Shrimad Bhagavat Geeta' that there is energy of thousand of nuclear bombs in the Virat Swarup of God and the sadhus are a part of that energy. They alone can perform this quality of human service with so much of care and divinity.
Dr. Kalam also appreciated the personal care taken by BAPS of the residents, with a touch of Indian culture and traditions, that included facilities like reading rooms, meeting places, prayer areas and tulsi plants.
Concluding his visit Dr. Kalam signed his feelings in the following words:
'I visited Swaminarayan mission relief site at Bhuj. Excellent with divine contribution. My devotion and respects to Swamiji.'