A two-day state convention of the National Service Scheme (NSS) for Punjab and UT Chandigarh commenced here at Chandigarh University campus in Mohali on Tuesday. Organized by the Regional Directorate, NSS Chandigarh under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, The convention was primarily aimed at strengthening effectiveness, outreach and promoting meaningful youth engagement in nation-building activities that brought together more than 250 participants from 34 universities from the state and UT including state NSS Officers, Programme Coordinators, Programme Officers and officials from the Regional Directorate and State NSS Cells, along with subject experts and resource persons.
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Jai Bhagwan, Reg. Director, Dr Raviraja N Seetharam, Vice Chancellor Chandigarh University along with other NSS Officials during State Level NSS Convention at Chandigarh University
The prominent among those who were present on the occasion were Prerna Puri, Secretary Education, UT Administration Chandigarh, Komal Singh Chaudhary, Representative Director NSS, Jai Bhagwan, Regional Director, NSS, Chandigarh, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Rupinder Kaur, Sate NSS Assistant Director, Nemi Chand Golia, State NSS Officer and Dr Raviraja N Seetharam, Vice Chancellor, Chandigarh University among other dignitaries.
The inaugural session was graced by Prerna Puri, Secretary Education, Chandigarh Administration who attended as the Chief Guest. In her address, she emphasized the pivotal role of NSS in shaping socially responsible youth and highlighted the importance of community service in holistic education.
Speaking on the occasion, Prerna Puri, Secretary Education, UT Administration Chandigarh said, “This convention is being held at the right time with a very relevant subject, the National Service Scheme because it is not just a program, NSS is an ideology of service, dedication and of social responsibility which we all must have.”
Puri added, “The vision of a developed India by 2047 can only be achieved through character-building. And for character-building, empathy, compassion and thinking beyond self-interest are essential. To contribute to people’s lives, each one of you must contribute meaningfully to this convention so that this program moves forward and contribute to nation-building, character development and leadership development.”
“In the materialistic world that we live in where personal gains or self-interest is priority for many, contributing meaningfully to the society selflessly is the need of the hour. There are psychology experiments that show that true happiness comes from selfless actions. The happiest country in the world is Finland, that country ranks first due to factors like social support and selfless behavior. People there don’t emphasize who won or lost but focus on collective experience. If we adopt such thinking, NSS initiatives can become truly meaningful. Many NSS volunteers already work in hospitals and other areas. We need behavioral change and value systems should be nurtured from a young age. The meaningful change in society comes only when we take responsibility,” added the Secretary Education.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking unprecedented measures for youth empowerment in the country, Jai Bhagwan, Regional Director, NSS, Chandigarh, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports said, “Under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister, the youth empowerment initiatives continues to guide the national service scheme across the country. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports have extended continuous support to strengthening youth engagement and promoting NSS initiatives across the nation. This indeed is a landmark occasion as we have gathered for the first time for this comprehensive State Convention of Punjab and UT Chandigarh here at Chandigarh University. This convention is not merely a formal gathering, it is a collective step towards strengthening NSS activities, enhancing coordination, and expanding the spirit of volunteerism among the youth. Through NSS, we continue to promote community service, social responsibility, and youth development. Our volunteers remain actively engaged in awareness campaigns, cleanliness drives, health initiatives, and various community development programs. Guided by the motto ‘Not Me, But You,’ NSS continues to shape responsible, compassionate and committed citizens of the nation.”
The convention witnessed technical sessions, panel discussions and interactive workshops focusing on best practices, innovative approaches and challenges in NSS implementation. The sessions were focused on themes including youth leadership development, community outreach, environmental sustainability and alignment of NSS activities with national priorities.
The inaugural day witnessed deliberations aimed at reviewing the current status of NSS implementation across the region while aligning future strategies with key national initiatives such as MY Bharat and the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
The speakers emphasized the need to strengthen coordination mechanisms, enhance institutional capacity and ensure effective monitoring and reporting systems to maximize the impact of NSS activities at the grassroots level.
About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.
Website address: www.cuchd.in
