During her time at Samaldas Arts College, Kavita Chauhan was an active volunteer in the National Service Scheme (NSS). She took part in many community service activities, working with other volunteers to help those in need.
In her final year, she was honored as the "Best NSS Volunteer of the Year" for her dedication and hard work. This award was given to her at the end of a seven-day NSS camp held at Gramdakshinamurti School in Aambala, Bhavnagar.
During the camp, Kavita led a team of volunteers, guiding and motivating them to complete different service projects. Together, they worked on initiatives to support the local community and promote the spirit of service.
Receiving the award was a proud and humbling moment for her. It strengthened her passion for social work and made her realize the importance of teamwork and dedication.
Her NSS experience not only helped her grow as a person but also taught her responsibility, empathy, and the joy of helping others. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the meaningful mission of the NSS.
Best NSS volunteer of the year 2023
NSS year 2021-22
During our NSS camp at Gram Dakshinamurti Lokshala, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. Surrounded by lush greenery, we enjoyed playing Antakshari and filling the air with melodies. The experience of relishing freshly harvested chikoo and sipping tender coconut water amidst this serene environment was truly delightful.
Throughout the seven-day camp, our respected Principal, Dr. J. B. Gohil, stayed with us, encouraging and motivating everyone. The true pillars of this camp were our four dedicated Program Officers—Dr. Janakbhai Joshi, Dr. A. R. Nayak, Prof. S. M. Rawat, and Dr. Sangeetaben Mahala. They not only guided us as mentors but also cared for us like parents, ensuring that we never felt away from home. Under their guidance, we not only learned valuable lessons but also experienced a sense of belonging.
The final night of the camp was made special with a grand Lok Dayro (folk music event). The presence of Babu Bhai Barot, Harsha Ben Barot, and our college faculty member, Keval Bhai Gohel, added charm to the evening. Their captivating music had the entire atmosphere resonating with energy and enthusiasm. A significant highlight of the night was the birthday celebration of Joshi Sir, a moment filled with deep emotions. The tears of joy in his eyes reflected the strong emotional bonds we had formed over the past week.
Every night, we had a reflection session where students presented reports on the day's activities, and responsibilities for the following day were assigned. These sessions also included singing and musical performances, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their talents while also relieving the fatigue of the day.
The living and dining arrangements at the camp were well-organized. As a token of appreciation and encouragement, Dr. Anilbhai Vaghela, Head of our Sociology Department, distributed Vinelela Moti, a book, along with a bag, pen, and conference pad to all students. Additionally, Dathawala Brothers sponsored T-shirts for everyone. The presence of Shailbapa and Amitbhai Padia further enriched the event.
One of the most memorable aspects of the camp was January 2, 2022, a day filled with excitement as it marked the foundation day of our historic college. The camp's commencement coinciding with the celebration of our college’s anniversary made the experience even more special. Though the camp came to an end, the joy, experiences, and learnings gained from it will remain with us forever.
For me, these seven days were truly unforgettable. I had the incredible opportunity to lead the camp, which taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. The support of our Principal, Program Officers, and fellow students made this journey even more fulfilling. Looking back at our collective success fills my heart with immense gratitude and joy.
Indeed, this seven-day NSS camp painted our lives with the vibrant colors of a rainbow, leaving behind cherished memories that will always be treasured.
As part of our NSS camp, we had the opportunity to visit two significant places—Alang Shipyard and Lokbharti Sanosara. These visits provided us with valuable insights into industrial operations, environmental concerns, and rural education, enriching our overall learning experience.
Visit to Alang Shipyard: A Glimpse into the World’s Largest Ship Recycling Yard
Alang, located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, is home to one of the largest shipbreaking yards in the world. As we entered the shipyard, we were amazed to see massive decommissioned ships lined along the coast, waiting to be dismantled.
We learned about the shipbreaking process, which involves systematically dismantling old ships to recover steel and reusable materials. The workers’ expertise in cutting and salvaging different parts of the ship was truly impressive. However, the visit also made us aware of the environmental challenges and safety concerns in the shipbreaking industry. Our discussions with industry professionals highlighted the importance of sustainable practices and worker safety measures being implemented at Alang.
This visit broadened our understanding of industrial recycling, maritime economics, and environmental responsibility. It also made us reflect on the hardships faced by laborers in the industry and the need for technological advancements to improve working conditions.
Visit to Lokbharti Sanosara: A Model of Rural Education and Self-Sufficiency
Our next stop was Lokbharti Sanosara, a renowned rural educational institute known for its unique approach to learning. Established with the vision of Mahatma Gandhi’s Nai Talim, Lokbharti focuses on holistic education, self-reliance, and rural development.
We were inspired by their education system, which integrates agriculture, handicrafts, and social service along with formal academics. The students here actively engage in farming, dairy work, and sustainable practices, making education more practical and community-driven.
During our visit, we interacted with faculty members and students who shared their experiences of learning beyond textbooks. Their emphasis on self-sufficiency and rural upliftment was truly commendable. The institution promotes Gandhian ideals, teaching students the importance of dignity of labor and community service.
This visit gave us a new perspective on education, where learning is deeply connected to real-life applications. It also made us realize the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and sustainable practices in modern education.