Unique Essay CompetitionManohar Merit cum Means Scholarship
College for Women, University of Delhi
Scholarship Cell
By Umrao Singh Sushila Devi Charitable Trust: A Legacy of Compassion and Service
Introduction
The Umrao Singh Sushila Devi Charitable Trust is a registered charitable organization that has been serving the community for over four decades. Founded in 1979 by Sh. Umrao Singh Goela, a dedicated teacher, the trust is committed to providing assistance to those in need, promoting self-reliance, and fostering a sense of community.
Sh. Umrao Singh Geola
Smt. Sushila Devi
Sh. Umrao Singh Goela
A Legacy of Dedication: Sh. Umrao Singh Goela (1910- 1980) .Shri Umrao Singh Goela was a truly self-made man with deep convictions and an enduring legacy.
Losing his own father at the tender age of four, he overcame early adversity to develop into dedicated educator, teaching English and Economics at Ramjas Schools.
Through sheer will, he managed to raise a large family of eleven children (seven sons and four daughters) on a single income, often working 16–18 hours a day. His sacrifice ensured equal opportunity for all, with every child attaining advanced degrees across the Arts, Sciences, and Engineering.
Despite his meagre resources, he lived a life of extraordinary charity. He regularly fed birds, donated to the poor and needy, for community affairs, and for local temples. His greatest charitable act was promoting and establishing this very trust, driven by a vision to provide education, food, and clothing to those in need.
A man of many talents, Mr. Goela was also a strong swimmer, an accomplished Chess player, and the author of an English Essay and Grammar book for middle-class students. His life was a testament to dedication, resilience, and boundless generosity.
Smt. Sushila Devi
The Unwavering Pillar: Smt. Sushila Devi (1915-1996) Smt. Sushila Devi was the unwavering pillar that supported a remarkable family. Born into a Zamindar family of Western UP, her formal education ended after 5th standard reflecting the limited opportunities available to the females of her time. However, she possessed a far greater education, having absorbed keen business sense and profound wisdom from her elders.
After marriage, she immediately faced the monumental task of nurturing a family of seven sons and four daughters on a meagre income. Matching her husband’s dedication, she tirelessly worked 16–18 hours per day, not just managing the household, but instilling foundational values of honesty, integrity, perseverance, and compassion in her eleven children.
She was the chief counsel and spiritual anchor of the entire clan. Deeply knowledgeable about family affairs, she provided invaluable advice and used her strength of character to keep the entire joint family together and harmonious. Her life was a testament to the power of wisdom, sacrifice, and the boundless love of a mother.
History and Registration
The trust was registered as a charitable organization on April 30, 1979, and later registered under the Societies Act 1860 on April 6, 1989. It is also registered with the Income Tax Authorities and enjoys exemption under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, enabling donors to claim tax benefits for their contributions.
Objectives
The trust's primary objectives are:
1. *Repaying Society*: After achieving success and earning recognition, the founder and his family members wanted to give back to society by helping underprivileged individuals who face financial constraints in pursuing their careers.
2. *Organized Charity*: Instead of individual charity, the family members preferred to pool their resources and efforts to create a more significant impact through teamwork and organized charitable activities.
3. *Promoting Self-Reliance*: The trust aims to empower individuals to become self-reliant, rather than dependent on others, by providing them with the necessary support and resources.
Activities
The trust undertakes diverse welfare activities, including awarding merit-cum-means scholarships to students in Delhi, Murthal, and Khekra; constructing community facilities such as a large Dharamshala in Khekra and an Assembly Hall in Murthal for social, cultural, and health-related programs; providing financial aid and distributing essential items to the needy; organizing annual community feasts and distributions on founders’ birthdays; extending medical support through free spectacles, hearing aids, and dialysis funding; and contributing to other charitable bodies like the PM’s Relief Fund, Red Cross, Arya Bal Griha, and RV Andh Maha Vidyalaya.
Testimonials
"I was the school topper in Class 10 and the district topper in Class 12. I secured 67th rank in the CUET UG examination for Hindi Honours and currently work with MH Vatavaran Society in the Event Management Group.” Nishu Kumari
“I sincerely thank you for awarding me this scholarship. It is a great support in easing financial pressure and allows me to focus more on my studies and personal growth. This initiative is truly encouraging for students like me, as it not only helps us pursue education with dedication but also motivates us to contribute positively to society. I feel honored to be a part of this program.” Seenu Sharma
“This scholarship is more than just financial aid – it is a source of motivation that pushes me to work harder and achieve my dreams.
I would like to sincerely thank the donor for their generous support. This contribution will go a long way in helping me achieve my goals, and I am truly grateful for their kindness and belief in my potential.” Sana