HOUSTON, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of escalating violence along the India-Pakistan border, Sewa International has launched a fundraising campaign aimed at providing critical relief to the families affected by recent attacks. The Campaign, titled "Rising From Terror," seeks to deliver urgent humanitarian aid to communities affected by terrorism, as well as provide support for disaster preparedness in terror-stricken regions.

The violence, which began with the loss of innocent lives in a terrorist attack on Hindu tourists in Pahalgam, was followed by a retaliatory military response from Pakistan, escalating tensions. Pakistan's strikes, which targeted civilian areas, resulted in the deaths of at least 16 innocent civilians and left thousands of families displaced, suffering from the destruction of their homes and communities.

People grieving after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Photo Courtesy: https://organiser.org

"Our mission is clear," said Srikanth Gundavarapu, Sewa's National President. "In the face of terror and violence, we will respond with resilience, compassion, and unwavering support. This Campaign is about healing, not just the physical wounds, but the emotional and psychological scars left by this violence. We stand united with the families affected by this tragedy and will help them rebuild their lives."

Pahalgam meadows after the terrorist attack. Photo Courtesy: https://organiser.org

What the Campaign Supports:

The Resilience Fund is dedicated to:

• Emergency relief: food, shelter, medical supplies, and emergency services for those directly affected.
• Trauma recovery: mental health support and counseling for children and families who have experienced profound loss.
• Rebuilding efforts: restoring homes, schools, and infrastructure to help communities return to normalcy
• Disaster preparedness: investing in long-term strategies to protect vulnerable communities in terror-stricken areas.

Humanitarian Principles at the Core

In a time when violence often overwhelms the human spirit, the organization is committed to upholding the sanctity of life and providing support based on the universal values of compassion, respect, and unity.

"The targeting of innocent civilians is a clear violation of international humanitarian law and the norms that bind us as a global community. When such violations occur, it is not only a matter of national politics - it is a collective responsibility of the international community to stand in solidarity with the victims," said Rakhi Israni, Sewa National Spokesperson and attorney, "We must uphold the principles of justice and humanity, ensuring that those who suffer from such violations receive the support they deserve."

How You Can Help

Supporters are encouraged to visit www.sewausa.org/HopeandHumanity to donate directly to the Resilience Fund. Contributions will provide immediate assistance and long-term solutions for those affected by the violence, ensuring that the communities on the frontlines of this conflict can recover, rebuild, and become more resilient in the face of future challenges.

About Sewa International

Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501(c)(3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit dedicated to providing humanitarian aid and building sustainable solutions for communities in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 US chapters and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

CONTACT:
Rakhi Israni -- +1 (832) 419-7105
Vidyasagar Tontalapur – +1 – 949-414-6624
Email: 395069@email4pr.com
Web: http://www.sewausa.org

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rising-from-terror-sewa-launches-fundraising-campaign-to-help-terror-victims-in-india-302453410.html

SAN FRANCISCO, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sewa International USA, the leading Hindu faith-based non-profit organization, announced a change in leadership at its 19th national conference held in the Bay Area from May 3 to 5. Srikanth Gundavarapu, a prominent Indian American businessman from Atlanta, GA, became its fifth president, taking over the reins from Arun Kankani.

Suresh Jain, Chairman of Sewa's Board of Directors, informed attendees that Arun Kankani would continue to serve as Sewa's Executive Vice President, guiding its operations. He announced that the San Antonio Chapter will host Sewa's 20th National Conference.

Volunteers gathered for a group photo during Sewa International's 19th National Conference in San Francisco, CA

The conference brought together over 140 volunteers, including Sewa's directors, advisory board members, executive teams, chapter presidents, coordinators, and other functionaries. Led by an all-volunteer executive team, Sewa has earned a distinction of serving in over 34 disasters since its inception in India in the 1980s as a social movement.

Arun Kankani, who led the organization to unprecedented heights during the COVID-19 pandemic, handed over the baton to Gundavarapu. In 2020, when COVID-19 ravaged the world, Sewa volunteers risked their lives to serve across the US cities by distributing millions of pounds of food and more than 100,000 hot meals to first responders, caregivers, and the public. It also saved several lives by sending over 10,000 oxygen concentrators to India during the pandemic.

Outgoing President Arun Kankani (left) and new President Srikanth Gundavarapu (right)

Over 4,500 Sewa volunteers served in the US during COVID-19. Sewa raised $45 million in 2021 from 140,000 donors, leading Benevity to rank Sewa among the top 10 charitable organizations supported by employers and their employees in 2021.

Accepting his new responsibility, Srikanth Gundavarapu said, "I'll lean on the strong shoulders that built this foundation. Sewa, which began as a small organization in an Atlanta garage, has now grown into an entity with strong systems and processes. Sewa's real strength lies in its thousands of volunteers and donors nationwide. Their dedication and hard work have built Sewa, and I am proud to carry forward its legacy".

Sewa's founding President, Srikant Konda, participated in the chat and recalled the organization's humble beginnings—forming chapters, raising local funds, and managing logistics with minimal resources. Sewa's second President, Gautam Desai, spoke of serving locally in the US, starting with Hurricane Katrina and the Bhutanese Refugee Empowerment Project across the US cities, and expanding its focus on international causes. Prof. Sree Srinath, Sewa's third president, recalled building systems and scaling Sewa into a nationally effective organization.

Leadership Means Care
In the concluding session, Advisory Board Member Saumitra Gokhale said, "This gathering reminded us that our progress stems not from chance, but from sustained effort, planning, and the dedication of volunteers over two decades. Sewa leadership isn't about titles—it's about continued service."

Sewa's board members, Dr. Ajay Singhal, Sridhar Talanki, Vishal Khera, and Sewa's Advisory Board Members, Shyam Parande, and Yashwant Pathak, attended the conference.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable non-profit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Contact:
Vidysagar Tontalapur
949-414-6624
394987@email4pr.com

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-year-of-impact-sewa-international-announces-new-leadership-302451117.html

HOUSTON, April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sewa International hosted the Green Summit: Small Steps, Big Impact virtually on April 26, drawing over 150 attendees. The summit, featuring panelists from prominent environmental organizations, emphasized practical actions toward building a sustainable future.

Moderator and host Rakhi Israni (top left), Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, Laura Bartsch (top right), and Managing Director and CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy (bottom) at the Green Summit

The first panel focused on "Clean Energy and Ocean Health". Moderator and host Rakhi Israni, Sewa International's Vice President of Government Relations, reflected on Earth Month, reminding attendees of the deep connection between humanity and the planet. Laura Bartsch, Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, and Stewart Sarkozy-Banoczy, Managing Director and CEO of the World Ocean Council, led the conversation on clean energy innovation and ocean conservation.

Laura Bartsch, architect and designer, said achieving 100% clean energy is possible today, though significant policy challenges remain. Bartsch expressed strong support for offshore wind energy, noting that Rhode Island—where she lives—was the first U.S. state to install ocean-based wind turbines. Bartsch highlighted the importance of local initiatives, citing New York City's congestion pricing as an example. She explained that not only has traffic been reduced, the policy also supports the adoption of cleaner energy options like electric and hydrogen-powered buses, funded through the revenue generated. She stressed that small changes, like adding bike lanes, can shift behaviors and build sustainable cities. Bartsch concluded by encouraging a focus on policy over politics.

Founder of Addressing Wellness and Equity, Lipika Devara, (top left), Director at Clean Fairfax, Jennifer Cole (top right), founder of Kaizen Life, Rashmi Prabhu (bottom left), and Director of the SERVE Program, Rohit Deshpande (bottom right), present at the Green Summit

CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy, stressed the oceans' critical role in carbon absorption and climate regulation. He explained that industries tied to the sea, such as shipping and fishing, must go beyond minimizing harm to actively restoring ecosystems. Warning against corporate green-washing and blue-washing, he urged consumers to scrutinize environmental claims critically, ensuring that initiatives drive meaningful, systemic change.

Young leaders, Ira Gramopadhye and Lipika Devara, offered some practical insights, including essential composting tips, emphasizing simple methods to reduce household waste. Lipika Devera led a discussion on sustainability challenges, featuring contributions from Jennifer Cole and Rashmi Prabhu, who addressed waste management improvements and the dangers of fast fashion. Rohit Deshpande underscored the impact of community volunteerism through Sewa's SERVE program's initiatives, including cleanups and tree planting efforts.

The summit concluded with a call to action. Panelists encouraged individuals to adopt small but consistent changes, such as eliminating bottled water use, to create larger environmental impacts over time. They stressed that youth engagement is vital, urging young leaders to raise awareness, interact with policymakers, and stay persistent in advocating for environmental stewardship.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c)(3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

CONTACT:
Rakhi Israni -- +1 (832) 419-7105
Vidyasagar Tontalapur – +1 – 949-414-6624
Email: 394292@email4pr.com
Web: http://www.sewausa.org

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sewa-internationals-green-summit-action-for-a-sustainable-future-302441238.html#:~:text=HOUSTON%2C%20April%2029%2C%202025%20%2F,toward%20building%20a%20sustainable%20future

HOUSTON, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to the catastrophic earthquake that struck Thailand and neighboring regions on March 28, Sewa International has launched a 24/7 Help Desk in Bangkok's Chatuchak District, started a community kitchen and serving over 4,000 hot meals daily, and delivered 50 boxes of life-saving medicines.

Sewa volunteers handed over critical life-saving medicines to officials in earthquake-affected areas of Thailand

Sewa is serving over 4,000 hot meals daily to families in earthquake-hit regions of Thailand

Sewa volunteers distributed over 80 boxes of food, 2,000 face masks, and several cartons of water, juices, and drinks. Sewa installed surgical lights at Sagaing General Hospital to enable emergency night procedures. Additionally, Sewa has provided UV-resistant tarpaulins, solar lanterns, tents, blankets, and plastic floor sheets to displaced families.

In a notable gesture of recognition of its work, Sewa's team met with the Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, to share the scope of ongoing efforts and plans. In Thailand, Sewa teams are also supporting SAR-K9 search operations by providing aid to rescue dogs and first responders.

Meanwhile, in the hardest-hit regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw, teams led by Dr. Ram Niwas are conducting assessments, distributing aid, and identifying the needs of Thai and Burmese victims, including those still trapped in the debris.

"Sewa International has carried out relief efforts in coordination with the Embassy of India, Yangon, the Government of India, and local partner organizations, including the Hindu Family Relief Group," said Shyam Parande, Global Coordinator of Sewa International.

"In every disaster, responding with compassion and kindness is our sacred duty," he said. "We are committed to providing timely relief and being respectful while serving. Our teams are working closely with local partners, the Indian Embassy in Yangon, and community volunteers to meet urgent needs on the ground," said Parande.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the disaster has claimed more than 3,600 lives, injured over 5,000 individuals, and displaced millions. About 160 people are still reported missing.

Relief efforts in Thailand have also received support from the Sikh community, who donated food, sanitary supplies, and bottled water. Working with the Royal Family Reserve Command, the Thai Disaster Relief Team, the Reserve Army, and local organizations such as the Hindu Family Relief Group, Sewa volunteers are actively coordinating field operations.

Donors can support Sewa's Thailand's recovery effort here:

Website - https://sewausa.org/ThailandEarthquakeRelief

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1EoyKPYahP/

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Contact:
Vidyasagar Tontalapur
720-526-9939
393307@email4pr.com

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sewa-international-launches-relief-operations-in-earthquake-hit-thailand-302427608.html

Houston, TX, (April 2, 2025): Sewa International USA has launched immediate relief operations following the catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake, followed by a powerful 6.4 magnitude aftershock that struck Southeast Asia on March 28. As a leading global humanitarian organization, Sewa has activated its emergency response teams to provide critical aid to devastated communities in Thailand.

The earthquake has claimed over 2,700 lives and left thousands injured amid widespread destruction across Thailand, Laos, and parts of southern China. In Bangkok, Thailand, rescuers are trying to save over 70 people trapped under the rubble of a collapsed 30-story building. In Laos, remote villages have been cut off from aid due to damaged infrastructure, while southern China has reported significant damage to buildings and roadways. Survivors across the region face acute shortages of shelter, food, and medical care. Sewa International's teams are working alongside local partners to address these urgent needs.

Sewa Relief for the Earthquake Victims
'Our global emergency response network allows us to deliver immediate relief to disaster victims worldwide,' said SwadeshKatoch, Vice President of Disaster Relief at Sewa International. 'We've already dispatched essential medical supplies to the region and are coordinating the delivery of 1,000 sleeping bags and additional relief materials. The scale of this disaster requires a sustained response, and Sewa is committed to supporting survivors through immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts.'

Sewa International USA is a humanitarian nonprofit organization that has responded to 25 major disasters worldwide since 2003. With 46 chapters across the United States and global partnerships in more than 30 countries, Sewa delivers aid regardless of race, religion, or nationality. The organization has earned a perfect 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is known for its efficiency in channeling over 90% of donations directly into program services. Through its disaster relief, education, and development programs, Sewa has impacted over 2.5 million lives globally, embodying its guiding principle: 'service to humanity is service to the divine.'

https://www.dinamalar.com/world-news-nri-en/united-states/news/-sewa-international-usa-mobilizes-relief-efforts-for-southeast-asian-earthquake-victims/2454

A US-based charitable non-profit organisation here has launched a helpline to help evacuate international students stranded in war-ravaged Ukraine by arranging for transportation to the nearest border check post and making arrangements for food and other essential supplies for their journey.

Sewa International already has over 4,000 students registered in its helpline, with its volunteers making concerted efforts to help evacuate another 400, according to a statement by the organisation on Monday.

Explosions and gunfire were heard in embattled cities in Ukraine on Monday as Russia's invasion met with stiff resistance.

Sewa Europe, an independent partner organisation, and the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) are currently working in ten Ukrainian cities.

Sewa International has also released USD 10,000 for the Ukrainian relief efforts and started a Facebook fundraising campaign to help people who are caught in this humanitarian crisis, the release said.

The messages and videos we are getting from the war zone show the fear, anxiety, and danger people are facing as they run to safety. As the global Sewa network rises to face this challenge, I request people to support Sewa International in this rescue effort," Arun Kankani, President, Sewa International, USA said.

"The war between Russia and Ukraine has affected all people in the region and caused serious distress in a world that is still struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Sewa International in the USA, and HSS volunteers in Europe, the US, and India are receiving hundreds of messages seeking help from people who are stuck in the war zone," he explained.

Sewa International helped a group of 150 students on February 26 to travel from Vinnitsa to Chernovtsy by bus. At Chernovtsy, Sewa provided them shelter, food, and transport for their onward journey to the Romanian border, the release said.

According to official estimates, about 18,000 Indian students are studying in universities across Ukraine. Due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, they are currently stranded, facing a severe shortage of food, and are in dire need of transport and shelter.

The Indian Embassy in Kyiv is advising these students on how to reach the country's western borders to reach Poland, Romania, or Hungary from where they can board Air India flights specially operated by the Indian government to reach India.

According to latest information, a total of 1,396 Indian nationals have been brought back from Ukraine in six evacuation flights.

https://www.business-standard.com/article/international/us-based-ngo-helping-in-evacuation-of-foreign-students-stranded-in-ukraine-122030100251_1.html?fbclid=IwAR2DSnDQHAoSjh-jXNOfXlLf0BpGxPD-u-DG1cpOZUFwzsKTKb1LcUnkHZg

 

Sewa International, the US-based charitable non-profit organisation with links to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has launched a helpline to help evacuate international students stranded in Ukraine by arranging for transportation to the nearest border check post along with providing food and other essential supplies for their journey.

Sewa International already has over 4,000 students registered in its helpline, and in a statement released on Monday, its volunteers are making arrangements to help evacuate another 400.

Sewa Europe and the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) are currently working in ten Ukrainian cities to help Indian students and Sewa International also released funds USD 10,000 for the Ukrainian relief efforts and started a Facebook fundraising campaign as many people are caught in this humanitarian crisis, the release said.

https://twitter.com/sewausa/status/1498727151364808704

Arun Kankani, President, Sewa International, USA said, The messages and videos we are getting from the war zone show the fear, anxiety, and danger people are facing as they run to safety. As the global Sewa network rises to face this challenge, I request people to support Sewa International in this rescue effort.

“The war between Russia and Ukraine has affected all people in the region and caused serious distress in a world that is still struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Sewa International in the USA, and HSS volunteers in Europe, the US, and India are receiving hundreds of messages seeking help from people who are stuck in the war zone,” he explained.

According to official estimates, there are over 18,000 Indian students studying in universities across Ukraine and many were left stranded once the Russia-Ukraine conflict started and are in dire need of transport and shelter.

The Indian Embassy in Kyiv had advised these students to reach the western borders of Ukraine from where students can cross over to Poland, Romania, or Hungary and board Air India flights specially operated by the Indian government to reach India.

https://thecommunemag.com/sewa-international-helps-more-than-3200-indians-evacuate-war-torn-ukraine/?fbclid=IwAR2R9fEL5zkO3o9QnDchN2BFccjET_GDJ_bkjhaGYr5TrVq3f73NLHf4Qwg