The Seven Day and Night NSS Special Camp, held on the themes of Swacch Bharat Abiyan and Jal Shakti Abhiyan, culminated at Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women, Chandigarh. The Chief Guest for the valedictory session was Ms. Harinder Kaur, Regional Director, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, Regional Directorate of NSS, Chandigarh. Speaking on this occasion, Ms. Harinder Kaur motivated the volunteers to work selflessly for the cause of social upliftment by following the NSS motto of ‘Not Me But You’ in letter and spirit. She enlightened the volunteers about several NSS events aimed at developing the personality and character of students such as Republic Day Parade Camp, National Integration Camp and National Adventure Camp. Dr. Purnima Bhandari, NSS Programme Officer presented the report of activities conducted during the camp that included workshops, visits, awareness sessions, etc. A cultural extravaganza, including medley performance emphasising the rich culture of India and the spirit of nationalism, and dance performances showcasing the cultural diversity of India through various traditional state dances like bihu, tarpa, naati and bhangra, was thoroughly enjoyed by the volunteers. Under Poshan Maah, nukkad natak was staged by the volunteers with an aim to educate everyone about the importance of healthy food and nutrition. Another nukkad natak on the theme of Swacch Bharat Abhiyan was performed by the volunteers that highlighted the harmful effects of plastic use and the importance of cleanliness. Through their talks and poems, some of the NSS volunteers shared their experiences during the camp and how the camp had enriched their personalities. Under Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, Ms. Shruti paid a tribute to our legendary freedom fighters through her dance performance. The seven days of the camp were an amalgam of meaningful activities that included lectures and workshops on Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Cultivating Positive Attitude in Life, Gender Sensitisation, Basics of Market, Waste Management, Compost making, Vermicomposting, Menstrual Hygiene and Reusable Sanitary napkins, Challenges of rural India, Health and Nutrition; workshop cum mock drill on fire fighting; quiz under Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat; sessions on yoga and meditation, anti ragging awareness, and visits to Senior Citizen Home, Sector 15, Chandigarh and adopted village Badheri.
Principal Dr. Nisha Bhargava congratulated NSS programme Officers Dr. Pallvi Rani and Dr. Purnima Bhandari for successfully organising such an expansive camp. She added that the exposure provided to the volunteers during the camp will go a long way in widening their horizons and empowering them to be individuals with a strong value system.