SSVP, Haldwani in Collaboration with Suchetana, Honours School Bus Drivers and Conductors

Haldwani, February 10, 2025: In a pioneering initiative, Suchetana, the social service centre of the Diocese of Bareilly, in collaboration with the Haldwani unit of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, organized a felicitation ceremony on February 9, 2025, at St. Theresa Senior Secondary School, Kathgodam, to honour school bus drivers and conductors. The event celebrated the dedication of 145 bus drivers and conductors from six schools in Haldwani. The ceremony was organized to commemorate the Jubilee Year of Hope.

The event was graced by Dr. Gurdev Singh, ARTO Haldwani, who served as the chief guest, alongside newly elected Ward No. 2 Councilor Mrs. Nirmala Tiwari and Dr. Siddharth Pandey.

The day began with a traditional welcome ceremony, where drivers and conductors were honoured with ceremonial scarves. Mr. Sanjay Charles, President of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the day. The event featured a symbolic "Nurturing the Plant" activity, a welcome song, entertainment programs, a communal meal, and the distribution of gifts.

In his keynote address, Dr. Gurdev Singh commended the commitment of the bus drivers and conductors, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring children's safety. Mrs. Nirmala Tiwari and Dr. Siddharth Pandey also acknowledged the challenges faced by these professionals and expressed deep appreciation for their contributions.

A special segment of the event recognized the best drivers and conductors from each participating school. ARTO Haldwani presented special gifts to the following awardees:

Holy Angels School, Haldwani: Mr. Pramod Bak and Mr. Pramod Singh

Naini Valley School, Haldwani: Mr. Bhim Singh and Mr. Azam Khan

Beersheba Senior Secondary School: Mr. Jeevan Singh Kanwar and Mrs. Hansi Devi

Nirmala Senior Secondary School: Mr. Gajendra Singh Rana and Mr. Balwant Singh Bora

St. Theresa Senior Secondary School: Mr. Umesh Chand Balutiya and Mrs. Malti Dewari

Fr. Derrick Pinto, Director of Suchetana, delivered an inspiring speech, lauding the contributions of school bus drivers and conductors and encouraging them to continue their dedicated service.

The event saw participation from several distinguished members of society, school administrators, principals, and representatives of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, including Ms. Sunita Rawat and Sr. Preeti. Attendees praised the initiative, recognizing its significance in acknowledging the hard work of school transport staff.

As the first event of its kind in Haldwani, the ceremony marked a milestone in elevating the recognition of school transport service providers. Organizers expressed their commitment to expanding the initiative to include all schools in Haldwani in future editions.

Concluding the event, Mr. Pramod Martin, Treasurer of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, extended heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries, schools, and contributors for making the event a success.

By Ms. Sunita Rawat