Sessions on Preventive Healthcare, Social Entrepreneurship, Stress Management through Storytelling, First Aid mark day 4 and 5 of NSS Camp at MCM

Day 4 and 5 of the 7-Day and Night NSS Camp at Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women, Chandigarh, were as eventful as the preceding days. Early morning exercise session, followed by an engaging group discussion on ‘Traditional vs Vocational Education’ and ‘AI: Boon or Bane’, marked the beginning of day 4. The next session was on ‘Preventive Healthcare: Psychological Well Being’ by Dr. Anubhuti Sharma, Assistant Professor (Psychology) at the college. This session aimed to highlight the nuances and dangers of internet addiction, illustrating the subtle ways in which excessive digital engagement can impact one’s connection to reality and well-being.

Thereafter, self-defence training session was held wherein the participants learnt self-defence techniques from the officials of Chandigarh Police. The last session of the day was on ‘Social Entrepreneurship’ by Dr. Sandeep Kaur, Assistant Professor (MFT) at the college. She highlighted the essence of social entrepreneurship, which is commitment to addressing social issues and creating positive impact alongside business objectives. She cited numerous examples of entrepreneurs who forged solutions that not only addressed the social needs but also empowered individuals and societies. The day concluded with a Talent Hunt Competition wherein the rhythmic dance moves, melody of music, eloquence of poetry, stroke of art and the power of elocution converged into a grand celebration of artistic creativity. The fifth day began with a session on yoga by Ms Keisham Monarita, a Gold medalist in yoga at National and International level.

She demonstrated Surya Namaskar to cultivate mindfulness, boost energy and create a positive mindset for the day. This was followed by demonstration and practise of Bhujang Asana, Makar Asana, Kapaal Asana and Bhramari Pranayama. The next interactive session on ‘Stress Management through Storytelling’ was conducted by Dr. Sunita Kumari, Assistant Professor (Hindi) at the college. She created a conducive environment for stress analysis through the creative art of storytelling and gave insights into the method of acquiring universal wisdom from stories. After this session, the self-defence training by Chandigarh Police Department went beyond physical techniques, encompassing valuable life skills such as discipline, respect and perseverance.

The last session of the day was on ‘First Aid Training’ by Mr. Sushil Kumar Taank, Training Supervisor, St. John Ambulance (India), Indian Red Cross Society. He enlightened the students on how to assess and address injuries promptly, helping to prevent the escalation of minor issues into severe conditions. The day wrapped up with a Food-Making Competition that provided the participants the opportunity to showcase their skill to create not just delicious but nutritionally powerful meals. The participants presented innovative dishes that could help to manage anemia, cater to thyroid health, and contribute to effective weight management.

Principal Dr. Nisha Bhargava lauded the NSS units for working with focused determination for the cause of nation building and social upliftment while promoting holistic development of girls and instilling in them the values to be responsible citizens. She added that the weeklong camp is a fine amalgam of thoughtfully curated activities that endeavour to ignite the innate strength of the girl students and empower them by equipping them with practical skills, instilling confidence, and promoting innovation and collaboration.