STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The first ever “All Women NSS National Integration Camp (NIC), 2025′ was organized here on Friday under the aegis of Higher Education Department, on the theme “Women Empowerment and Emancipation” symbolizing “Nari Shakti” at PSPS, GCW, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu.
Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education, Shantmanu, inaugurated the event which was jointly organized by National Service Scheme (NSS), Government College for Women, Parade and Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government PG College Gandhi Nagar, Jammu.
VC Cluster University of Jammu, Professor KS Chandra Sekar, was the guest of honour on the occasion.
The National Integration Camp is an annual event conducted as a part of National Service Scheme (NSS) to promote national unity, communal harmony and inclusive spirit among the youth of India. This mega event brought together participants from diverse cultural, linguistic and geographical backgrounds, highlighting the country’s rich diversity and collective identity. Nearly, 25 NSS Programme Officers, 200 NSS volunteers and 18 contingents participated in the NIC Camp.
In his inaugural address, Shantmanu emphasized the importance of national integration and youth empowerment in strengthening the nation. He stressed that NSS encourages individuals to actively participate in various initiatives that address the pressing needs of the society. Whether, it be through education outreach, environmental conversation, or health awareness campaigns, their involvement has the potential to make a profound impact, he added.
State SNO, Director Colleges, Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Wazir, stated that NSS has been a beacon of aspiration, creativity and service in our community and it is a platform that embodies the spirit of selfless service among the youth. ‘Service to humanity is a calling that transcends boundaries, be it social, economic or geographical. NSS Volunteers represent the very best of our youth their compassion, hard work and commitment in making a meaningful life of others’, he asserted.
NSS Camp Commandant, Dr. Gurpreet Kour, gave a brief introduction about the NSS NIC Camp 2025.
Present on the occasion were Dr. Rashmi Singh, Resident Commissioner J&K Government, New Delhi, Professor L K Magotra, Chairman Governing body, GCW, Parade Ground, Jammu, Colonel Munish Jasrotia, Commanding Officer,2 J&K Girls Battalion , NCC, Principals, Deans & NSS PO’s of all the Colleges of Jammu Division and Members of Advisory Committee of NSS NIC.
The event witnessed cultural performances that showcased various regional dances and songs, celebrating India’s diversity.
Professor K S Chandra Sekar, said that NSS embodies the spirit of selfless service, fostering not only individual growth but also community development.
Nodal Principal, Jammu Division, Dr. S P Saraswat, Principal PSPS, GCW, Gandhi Nagar presented vote of thanks.
Meanwhile, an orientation program on National Integration and NSS was held which included discussions and lecture by Dr. Hema Gandotra, working as an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology, Jammu University. She said that NSS plays a crucial role in shaping the character of students while contributing to the social and economic development of communities across India.
Dr. Rashmi Singh, Resident Commissioner J&K Government, New Delhi, said that in today’s world, where challenges such as inequality, climate change and public health crisis loom large, the role of NSS becomes all more imperative. NSS Volunteers involvement in various social programs, community development projects, and awareness campaigns fosters a sense of responsibility and instills values that help to shape a better society.
In the Cultural evening at PSPS GCW Gandhinagar, Jammu the participants came together to celebrate Unity in Diversity, fostering camaraderie and cultural exchange among the attendees.