The foundation day and felicitation ceremony of the National Service Scheme (NSS), run under the Higher Education Department, was celebrated at the Krishak Auditorium of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University in Raipur. The event included the presentation of a total prize money of Rs 3 lakh as recognition and citation to program officers, organizations, and volunteers who had performed outstanding work under the State Level Service Scheme for the year 2022-23.
Distinguished dignitaries present at the ceremony included Mr. Gyanesh Sharma, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission; Mr. Siddharth Komal Singh Pardeshi, Secretary of Higher Education Department; Dr. Girish Chandel, Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University Raipur; and Dr. R.S. Kuril, Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi Horticulture and Forestry University Raipur, who attended as a special guest.
The National Service Scheme was established on September 24, 1969, and currently boasts the participation of over one lakh four thousand volunteers in Chhattisgarh.
Mr. Gyanesh Sharma, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission, lauded the significant contributions made under the National Service Scheme. He emphasized the scheme’s role in enabling students to contribute effectively during disasters and critical situations, including the implementation of government programs. He highlighted that the NSS serves as a youth organization that nurtures organizational skills and leadership qualities in its participants. The involvement of students in community activities through NSS leads to personal growth and fosters a sense of philanthropy.
Additionally, Mr. Sharma emphasized the inclusion of yoga in NSS programs, advocating for the daily practice of yoga to enhance physical and mental abilities.
Mr. Siddharth Komal Singh Pardeshi, Secretary of Higher Education Department, commended the NSS slogan, “Main Se Pehle Hum,” which strengthens the organization. He acknowledged the vital role played by NSS volunteers in disaster relief, blood donation, tree plantation, and awareness campaigns. Mr. Pardeshi emphasized that NSS contributes significantly to the holistic development of students’ personalities and that personality development, coupled with educational progress, empowers individuals to achieve their aspirations.
Dr. Girish Chandel, Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, spoke about the positive impact of NSS on leadership development and the cultivation of a strong sense of patriotism among students. He highlighted that over five thousand students at the university were actively contributing to the nation and society through their participation in NSS.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of prize money and certificates to winners at various levels, including university, institution, college, and school. Notable awardees included Atal Bihari Vajpayee University Bilaspur at the university level, Kamla Nehru College Korba at the institution (unit) level, Government Higher Secondary School Aghina Salka Surguja at the institution (unit) level, and program officers from various colleges and schools.
The event was coordinated by Dr. R.P. Aggarwal, NSS Coordinator. Distinguished guests, program officers, and volunteers from the National Service Scheme were present at the event, making it a significant celebration of NSS’s Foundation Day.
