Sarb Naujawan Sabha: 35 yrs of service with focus on youth, women empowerment
In an example of sustained grassroots activism, Sarb Naujawan Sabha (Regd.) Phagwara has spent the last 35 years transforming lives through people-centric initiatives.
These initiatives focus on social empowerment, particularly targeting underprivileged youth and women. From organising mass weddings for the economically disadvantaged to vocational training programmes with a high employment success rate, the Sabha continues to be a beacon of hope and action in the region.
Founded on the revolutionary ideals of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, the Sabha began as a youth mobilisation platform through cultural programmes aimed at inspiring social unity. Over time, it evolved into a multifaceted NGO with far-reaching community impact.
In 1991, the organisation launched its flagship mass wedding ceremony initiative, addressing the financial burden of marriage for low-income families.
Every year, at least 11 underprivileged couples are married in a collective event held in Phagwara. The Sabha also provides each couple with essential household items and the events are regularly attended by members of civil society, political leaders and government officials, demonstrating a broader social solidarity.
Another major area of impact has been the Sabha’s long-standing fight against drug addiction. For over three decades, the organisation has held awareness seminars, cycle rallies, jagran-based awareness campaigns and workshops to combat substance abuse, especially among the youth.
The Sabha’s environmental efforts are equally noteworthy. The group celebrates World Environment Day and Forest Day with tree plantation drives and cleanliness campaigns, contributing actively to a cleaner, greener Phagwara.
Under the leadership of President Sukhwinder Singh and guided by Principal Gurmeet Singh Palahi, the organisation has undergone a significant transformation over the last five years.
In collaboration with SOSVA (Society for Service to Voluntary Agencies), Punjab Chandigarh, the Sabha introduced vocational training courses targeting SC-category and economically weak girls. These six-month courses cover fashion designing, beauty culture, computer applications, and more recently, healthcare.
With an annual enrolment of around 160 girls from Phagwara, Banga, Jandiala, Phillaur and nearby villages, the vocational programmes charge a nominal Rs 150 monthly fee and provide free toolkits upon completion. Impressively, the initiative has achieved an 80 per cent success rate in employment and self-employment — a testament to its real-world efficacy. The healthcare course, conducted in partnership with the local Civil Hospital, further expands the program’s reach and relevance.
Extending its social impact, the Sabha conducts monthly eye surgeries, organises blood donation camps and offers scholarships and school uniforms to deserving students. Its commitment to environmental care is evident through the regular upkeep of parks and public spaces in and around Phagwara.
The Sabha is registered with Nehru Yuva Kendra (Kapurthala), NITI Aayog, and SOSVA Chandigarh. Its permanent vocational centre, “Seva Sadan”, currently nearing completion, has been partially funded under the MPLAD scheme through Union Minister Som Parkash. Additional support comes from NRI donors, local citizens and the district administration.
With a current strength of 50 active members, an 11-member working committee and a 7-member advisory board, Sarb Naujawan Sabha represents a powerful model of how civil society, in collaboration with public agencies, can drive real grassroots change.
In a world often dominated by headline-grabbing campaigns, this quiet, consistent movement rooted in dignity, action and hope remains an enduring symbol of what true community service looks like.
Jalandhar