The Ramakrishna Mission has a long and distinguished history of disaster relief work across India. True to this tradition, the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Belagavi has actively responded to natural calamities affecting the people of northern Karnataka, most notably the devastating floods of August 2019.
In the spirit of Swami Vivekananda's call to serve the poor and the suffering as living embodiments of God, the Ashrama mobilises its resources, volunteers, and the generosity of its donors to provide timely and effective relief to those who are most affected by disasters.
Flood Relief Work — August 2019
In August 2019, catastrophic floods caused widespread destruction across many districts of Karnataka. Responding swiftly to the crisis, the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Belagavi undertook an extensive flood relief programme from 13 to 25 August 2019, covering affected villages in the Nipani and Hukkeri taluks of Belagavi district.
Villages Served
Each relief kit distributed by the Ashrama contained essential groceries including rice, dal, cooking oil, salt, and sugar; garments for the family; and toiletries to meet basic hygiene needs. The kits were carefully assembled to provide practical support to flood-affected families while they worked to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.
Relief Operations Timeline
August 2019
Flood Situation in Karnataka
Severe floods struck large parts of Karnataka in August 2019, causing widespread devastation to homes, livelihoods, and infrastructure. The districts of Belagavi, Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and surrounding areas were among the worst affected. Thousands of families were displaced, and urgent relief was needed.
13–15 August 2019
Initial Relief Operations Begin
The Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Belagavi immediately mobilised its resources and volunteers in response to the flood crisis. The first phase of relief operations began on 13 August 2019, with the preparation and distribution of relief kits to affected families in the Nipani and Hukkeri taluks of Belagavi district.
16–18 August 2019
Relief Reaches Flood-Affected Villages
Relief kits were distributed to families in the villages of Manakapur, Bhoj, and Mangur. Each relief kit contained essential groceries (rice, dal, cooking oil, salt, sugar), garments, and toiletries. The kits were designed to meet the immediate survival needs of a family for approximately a week.
19–21 August 2019
Operations Extended to More Villages
The relief operations were extended to additional flood-affected villages including Kunnur, Barwad, and Karadaga. Volunteer teams from the Ashrama worked tirelessly under challenging conditions, navigating flooded roads and damaged infrastructure to reach the most affected communities.
22–25 August 2019
Final Phase — Arjunwad and Sidnal
The final phase of relief distribution covered the villages of Arjunwad and Sidnal. By the conclusion of the operations on 25 August 2019, the Ashrama had distributed relief kits to hundreds of families across multiple taluks and villages, providing much-needed comfort and support to those who had lost everything in the floods.
Post-August 2019
Assessment and Follow-Up
Following the initial relief phase, the Ashrama conducted a follow-up assessment to understand the long-term needs of the affected communities. Further assistance was provided as required, and the Ashrama remained in contact with local community leaders to ensure that aid reached those most in need.
Flood Relief — Photo Gallery
Support Relief Activities
The relief activities of the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama are made possible through the generous support of donors and well-wishers. Your contribution helps the Ashrama respond swiftly and effectively to future disasters and continue its ongoing welfare programmes for the underprivileged.
Donations to the Ashrama are exempt from Income Tax under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act. To contribute to the Ashrama's relief and welfare activities, please visit our Donate page or contact us directly.