Pallavi Sharma
Dharamshala: In a gesture of solidarity with disaster-affected communities, the Himachal Pradesh Basketball Association (HPBA) has extended financial assistance to the flood-ravaged Seraj region in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh by donating ₹2,51,000. The cheque was presented to former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jai Ram Thakur, by Munish Sharma, who serves as joint secretary of the Basketball Federation of India and HPBA president.
The contribution is among the first formal responses from a sports body in Himachal Pradesh following the devastating landslides and floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains. During the handover ceremony, Munish Sharma emphasised that this act was more than just a financial contribution—it was a symbol of collective compassion and resilience.
“This donation represents a ray of hope and a message of unwavering support for the families affected by this calamity,” Sharma said. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the office bearers and members from all district units of HPBA whose coordinated efforts made the relief possible.
The Seraj region witnessed widespread devastation in several cloudbursts that struck on June 30, 2025. Roads have been washed away, houses flattened and local infrastructure left crippled. Dozens of villages remain cut off as the state administration continues rescue and rehabilitation operations.
While the government has sanctioned a relief package to address the crisis, local initiatives such as HPBA’s support are becoming crucial in filling the urgent resource gaps.
Sharma called upon other sports and cultural associations across Himachal Pradesh to take similar steps and align themselves with community relief efforts. “We must recognize our civic responsibilities beyond the playing field,” he added.
HPBA’s initiative has resonated deeply with local citizens and has already sparked conversations about the role of non-governmental institutions in disaster response. As the region begins to recover from the worst of the rains, acts of generosity like this offer not just immediate relief but also emotional and symbolic strength to communities striving to rebuild.
