About Us
Rebuilding lives with dignity since the 2001 Gujarat earthquake.
About Us
Devdaya Charitable Trust was founded in 2001 in response to the devastating earthquake that struck Gujarat on 26 January 2001. The disaster—centered in Kutch—had a profound and lasting impact across the state, with severe damage and humanitarian need in Wankaner and surrounding rural communities. In the wake of collapsed homes, loss of life, and widespread health and economic hardship, local leaders and medical professionals came together to restore hope and rebuild essential services.
Our journey
25 years of service
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2001
Trust founded after the Gujarat earthquake
Dr. Ramnikbhai and Dr. Bhanuben Mehta start Devdaya; the Diagnostic Centre opens in the Bandhu Samaj building.
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2004
N. R. Doshi Eye Hospital reopened
Eye care and surgery return to Wankaner.
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2005
Childhood Blindness Prevention Project
Free camps for children with visiting paediatric eye specialists.
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2008
Recognised as a Base Hospital
Free cataract operations without a government card. Paediatric super-specialty department opens.
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2009
Gujarat's first children's super-specialty eye hospital
Recognised by the Government of Gujarat.
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2023
Technology for 40 schools
3D printers, drones and VR with free teacher training; 20 government schools rebuilt so far.
Our Founding Story
In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, Dr. Ramnikbhai Mehta and Dr. Bhanuben Mehta, originally from Wankaner and then based in London, responded to urgent appeals from their hometown. Conversations with residents confirmed a critical need for accessible health and education services. Motivated by these needs and inspired by the resilience of Dayaben—a widowed mother who raised and educated her children—the Mehtas established Devdaya Charitable Trust in 2001 in her name.
The Trust was formally registered under the Bombay Public Trust Act, 1950 (Registration No. E-6347 dated 11/09/2001; now E-701/Morbi). Lalitbhai Mehta, an educationist, social reformer, and former Rajya Sabha member, joined as President to guide the Trust’s early development and community outreach.
The 2001 Gujarat Earthquake
The 2001 Gujarat earthquake became the foundation of Devdaya Charitable Trust's journey to restore hope, provide healthcare, and empower communities through education.
Our Mission and Vision
Leadership and Governance
The Trust’s founding leadership—Dr. Ramnikbhai Mehta and Dr. Bhanuben Mehta and his son Devesh Mehta—continues to guide its medical and strategic direction, supported by community leaders and professionals. Under the stewardship of experienced administrators and medical staff, Devdaya Charitable Trust operates with transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a focus on measurable community outcomes.
Looking Ahead
- Specialist network expansion: Bringing more consultant specialists to Wankaner on a regular basis so patients can receive comprehensive care locally.
- Integrated diagnostics and treatment: Ensuring patients can be diagnosed and treated for a full range of conditions without traveling out of town.
- Sustainable partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with national and international institutions to enhance service quality and access.
- Community education: Increasing health awareness programs and preventive care initiatives to reduce disease burden and improve long-term wellbeing.
Impact and Invitation for Partnership
The Trust’s combined investments in school infrastructure, technology, and teacher capacity have improved learning environments, increased student participation in academic and extracurricular competitions, and opened new pathways for economic opportunity. Devdaya Charitable Trust invites partners, donors, and educational organisations to collaborate in scaling these programmes across Gujarat so that every child—regardless of background—can access modern education and a future of self‑reliance.
