 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 3: A 7-day NSS National Integration Camp (NIC) 2025, approved by the Regional Director, Delhi, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, was inaugurated under the aegis of the Higher Education Department, J&K Government. The event, themed "Women Empowerment and Emancipation" symbolizing "Nari Shakti", was jointly organized by GCW Parade Ground and PSPS GCW Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, on January 3, 2025.
The NIC is an annual initiative under the National Service Scheme (NSS) aimed at fostering national unity, social harmony, and inclusivity among India's youth. The camp brought together 25 NSS Program Officers, 200 NSS Volunteers, and 18 contingents representing diverse cultural, linguistic, and geographical backgrounds, showcasing India's rich diversity and collective identity.
The inaugural ceremony took place at PSPS GCW Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, beginning with the National Anthem and Saraswati Vandana. Guests performed the traditional lamp-lighting ritual, symbolizing the removal of darkness and ignorance, followed by a bouquet presentation.
Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Wazir, State NSS Officer and Director of Colleges, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the NSS's role as a platform embodying selfless service and fostering compassion, hard work, and commitment among the youth. Dr. Gurpreet Kour, NSS Camp Commander and Program Officer at GCW Parade, provided an introduction to the NIC 2025.
Shri Shantmanu, IAS, Financial Commissioner (Additional Secretary), Higher Education Department
Prof. L.K. Magotra, Chairman, Governing Body, GCW Parade Ground
Prof. K.S. Chandra Sekar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University, Jammu
Col. Muneesh Jasrotia, Commanding Officer, 2 J&K Girls Battalion, NCC
Principals, Deans, NSS Program Officers, and Advisory Committee Members
NSS volunteers sang the NSS song, and cultural performances highlighted India's diverse traditions through regional dances and songs.
Chief Guest Shri Shantmanu stressed the importance of youth participation in addressing societal issues such as education outreach, environmental conservation, and health awareness. He highlighted the transformative potential of NSS initiatives in fostering empathy, inclusivity, and respect for diversity.
Prof. K.S. Chandra Sekar, Guest of Honor, noted that NSS fosters selfless service, individual growth, and community development, serving as a catalyst for societal change. He underscored that NSS provides a platform for personal and communal growth through service.
Dr. S.P. Saraswat, Nodal Principal, Jammu Division, and Principal of PSPS GCW Gandhi Nagar, delivered the vote of thanks. The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, and proceedings were conducted by Prof. Sugandha Mahajan and Dr. Gurpreet Kour. High tea was served following the ceremony.
Dr. Rashmi Singh, Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K Government, New Delhi, addressed the gathering at GCW Parade Ground, emphasizing the NSS's role in tackling challenges such as inequality, climate change, and public health crises. An orientation program on National Integration and NSS was held in the Maitreyi Block's Conference Hall, featuring a lecture by Dr. Hema Gandotra, Associate Professor in Sociology at Jammu University and NSS Program Coordinator. Dr. Gandotra discussed NSS's contribution to shaping students' character and fostering community development.
The cultural evening at PSPS GCW Gandhi Nagar celebrated Unity in Diversity, promoting camaraderie and cultural exchange among participants, furthering the camp's objective of fostering national integration and solidarity. |
