On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Nawalgarh witnessed an inspiring Awareness Rally jointly organized by The Anandilal Podar Trust and Kangaroo Minds. The event saw enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, social workers, and local citizens, all uniting to spread the vital message that “A healthy life is incomplete without mental well-being.”

The rally was graced by the esteemed presence of District Collector Dr. Arun Garg as Chief Guest, MLA Mr. Vikram Singh Jakhal as Chairperson, and A.D.E.O. Mr. Ummed Singh Mahla as Guest of Honour. They were warmly welcomed by Dr. Vinod Kumar Saini, Director (PR & IP), and Dr. Satyendra Singh, Principal of Podar College.

In his address, Dr. Arun Garg emphasized that one in every five individuals experiences mental health challenges, often intensified by modern pressures such as competition and conflict. He reminded everyone that supporting one another during difficult times not only saves lives but also empowers individuals. “A healthy human life is incomplete without mental well-being,” he said, while commending The Anandilal Podar Trust and Dr. Vedica Podar for their sustained commitment to mental health initiatives.

In his presidential remarks, MLA Mr. Vikram Singh Jakhal praised Dr. Vedica Podar’s campaign as an inspiration for the district. Expressing concern over the excessive use of mobile phones among youth, he called it a major cause of mental stress and urged discipline and awareness to be encouraged across educational and social institutions.

Dr. Vedica Podar, Founder of Kangaroo Minds and Trustee of The Anandilal Podar Trust, delivered a powerful message stating, “Life’s challenges often give rise to mental health issues. We must foster empathy, conversation, and collaboration to build true mental empowerment.”

The rally was flagged off by all dignitaries, including Dr. Arun Garg, Mr. Vikram Singh Jakhal, Mr. Ummed Singh Mahla, Mr. Radhesyam Sankhla (CI, Nawalgarh), Mr. Shrikant Murarka, Mr. Kailash Chotia, Mr. Ravinder Purohit, Mr. Murli Saini, Mr. Omprakash Sain, Dr. Durga Bhojak (Principal, Podar TT College), Mr. Jeen CK (Principal, Podar GPS), and Dr. Pooja Panwar (Principal), along with several other community leaders. The march began at Podar College and covered key city points — Municipality, Nansa Gate, Nahar Singh Park, Mandi Gate, Mahamaya Temple, and Kotwali Road — before returning to the campus.

A symbolic highlight was the planting of a sapling by Dr. Arun Garg, representing growth, renewal, and hope for a mentally healthy society. Mr. Rajiv Podar, Hon. Chairman of The Anandilal Podar Trust, and Mr. M.D. Shanbhag, Executive Director, extended heartfelt congratulations to all organizers and participants for the event’s success and reaffirmed their support for continued progress in mental health awareness.