Recalling spiritual service of Satya Baba to humanity, Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Friday said the Hindu holy man had transformed Putttaparthy village into an international centre of excellence in education, healthcare and rural development.

“Baba also took up drinking water and irrigation projects at Puttaparthy in Andhra Pradesh for its transformation, with selfless spirit of service, love to humanity and a universal vision,” said Naidu at World Youth Meet here.

The pilgrim town in the Rayalaseema region of the neighouring state is about 150km northwest of Bengaluru across the border.

The day-long event also marked Baba’s 93rd birthday on a full moon day (Karthika Pournima).

“As we celebrate Baba’s birth anniversary, we remember his legacy of love, compassion, devotion and service to humanity. We are blessed to have his divine presence in individuals and institutions who serve fellow beings,” Naidu told the huge gathering at its valedictory event.

Noting that he was inspired by Baba’s messages, Naidu said his organisation had taken up several welfare projects in education, healthcare and nutrition.

“Excellence was Baba’s watchword and we celebrate its spirit in the award ceremony and the university he established,” recalled Naidu.

On the Satya Sai Seva group’s contribution in education, healthcare and social services to common citizens, the Vice-President said under the stewardship of its Chief Mentor B.N. Narasimha Murthy, 29 institutions were providing free education in 14 districts of Karnataka and one district of Telangana, apart from a free university, serving 3,500 children.

“In the health sector, two paediatric cardiac hospitals are providing free treatment and 6,000 children have operated upon, while 50,000 ailing children from all states across the country were treated,” said Naidu.

The group also provides nutritious breakfast to 1.2 lakh children in 15 states and two Union Territories. It is also operating several human development and spiritual centres the world over.

“I am happy to note that the group’s nutrition programme will be expanded to cover 5 lakh children and one lakh pregnant women by March 2019,” added Naidu.