"NOT ME ,BUT YOU"

Our Diwali mela, Pradeepan 7.0, was graced by distinguished dignitaries who added it to the event's splendor. We were honored to have Shri Uttam Kumar Dadhichi, Co-province executive, as our Chief Guest, and Prof. Brajesh Kumar Pandey, Professor at JNU, as our Guest of Honor. They felicitated the winners of various competitions, recognizing their talents and achievements.

We were also delighted to have Dr. Manish Kumar Verma and Dr. Nidhi Rastogi joined us as special invitees. Dr. Verma judged the Talent Hunt, while Dr.

Rastogi adjudged the Ethnic Ramp Walk. Their expertise and presence added depth and value to the events.

The presence of these esteemed guests elevated the festive spirit and made the occasion even more memorable. We express our heartfelt gratitude to each of them for taking the time to join us and contribute to the success of Pradeepan 7.0.

The NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College hosted a seminar titled "Women's Legal Rights Against Workplace Harassment in India," featuring Advocate Mandeep Baisla from the Supreme Court. He discussed the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, emphasizing its origins in the 1992 Bhanwari Devi case and the role of Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) in fostering a safe workplace.

The seminar included an interactive Q&A session, where students shared experiences and gained insights into their rights and legal recourse. NSS Programme Officer Dr. Ajay Pratap Singh Gahlot concluded the event by thanking Advocate Baisla and participants for their engagement, highlighting the importance of awareness and education in combating workplace harassment.

Heartfulness is a way of living with the heart at the center of our existence. When the heart takes the lead, our actions become simpler, purer, and more peaceful." - Kamlesh D Patel

The NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College, in collaboration with the Heartfulness Institute, NCC and YUVA, organized an immersive three-day meditation session from 7th to 9th October. Led by Dr. Vandana Mehta,

Director Professor & Head of Department, Anatomy, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, the session focused on the transformative benefits of meditation for mental, emotional and physical well-being.

Dr. Mehta engaged with the students, discussing how meditation can positively influence one's overall well-being. She shared an enlightening story that emphasized the importance of balancing the heart and mind to achieve inner tranquillity. The story underscored how cultivating good thoughts while managing negative emotions is essential for peace and clarity in life.

The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer." - Mahatma Gandhi

Shared joy is joy doubled. A lot of times, we find ourselves holding onto things we no longer need. Be it the clothes you've grown out of, your childhood toys that are collecting dust or books that you no longer need.

With the intent of connecting you and those in need, the NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College is organising a donation drive. Donate clothes, stationery, shoes, books, packed foods, toys or even money to brighten the days of those who will cherish them forever. Let this be an opportunity for you to carry out a small deed of kindness and give back to the community as best as you can

Session on “The Role of Bystanders and CPR” – 6th March 2025

The NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College, in collaboration with TRAX, conducted an insightful session on “The Role of Bystanders and CPR” on 6th March 2025. The session emphasized the importance of timely action in emergencies and the power of bystanders to save lives.

Participants were trained in basic CPR techniques and first aid measures, gaining valuable life-saving skills. Dr. Vaibhav Tomar from MAX Hospital led the session as the keynote speaker, offering expert guidance on emergency response. Mr. Vijay Nand, Project Director at TRAX, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the role of individuals in ensuring road and community safety.

The event encouraged students to act with confidence and responsibility during critical situations, turning awareness into meaningful action.

Road Safety Awareness Competitions – “Nazar Hati, Durghatana Ghati”

The NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College, in collaboration with TRAX, organized a vibrant set of competitions under the road safety initiative “Nazar Hati, Durghatana Ghati.” The events combined fun, creativity, and social responsibility to highlight the importance of safe and responsible road behavior.

The Treasure Hunt turned the campus into a puzzle-solving playground, promoting teamwork and road safety knowledge. The Meme-Making Competition brought humor into awareness, as participants used satire to convey serious messages. In the Creative Writing Competition, students expressed powerful narratives, poems, and essays reflecting the need for responsible commuting. The Open Mic gave space to heartfelt poetry, stories, and songs, sharing personal experiences and inspiring reflection.

Each competition added a unique flavor to the campaign, making it both memorable and impactful. Through such innovative efforts, the NSS Unit continues to promote awareness with creativity and purpose.

The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) Campaign is a nationwide initiative under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, promoting cleanliness as a fundamental way of life. The National Service Scheme (NSS) plays an active role in this movement by mobilizing volunteers to contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Activities Conducted by NSS Under This Campaign:

1) Cleanliness Drives – Volunteers engaged in cleaning efforts at schools, parks, roads, and other public spaces.

2) Awareness Rallies – Spreading the Swachh Bharat message through slogans and banners.

3) Door-to-Door Campaigns– Educating communities about waste segregation and proper disposal methods.

4) Workshops & Seminars – Promoting hygiene practices, including effective handwashing techniques.

5) Tree Plantation – Enhancing greenery and helping to reduce pollution levels.

6) Plastic-Free Campaigns – Advocating for the use of eco-friendly alternatives.

7) Wall Painting & Poster Making – Raising awareness through creative expressions.

On September 23rd 2024, the NSS unit of Deshbandhu College successfully organized a cleanliness drive to promote eco-consciousness among students and staff. The drive focused on key areas of the campus, including the old block, canteen, college gate, and library. The volunteers actively engaged in sweeping pathways, collecting litter, and disposing of waste in designated bins, with special emphasis on high-traffic areas like the canteen and college gate.

As a result of the drive, the now clean surroundings help to provide a more conducive study atmosphere for students. The drive aimed to not only improve the physical cleanliness of the college but also raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a hygienic environment as a shared responsibility.

The event concluded with participants committing to sustain cleanliness efforts and encouraging others to do the same. The college community responded positively, and future drives are planned to ensure continued attention to campus hygiene.

The NSS plays a crucial role in the success of the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign by engaging young volunteers and inspiring society to actively pursue cleanliness and sustainability.

In our country, menstruation continues to be surrounded by stigma, discrimination, and shame. Despite being a natural biological process, conversations around menstrual and sexual health are often silenced or spoken of in hushed tones. This culture of secrecy and embarrassment not only perpetuates ignorance but also adversely affects the health, dignity, and confidence of women and girls. To challenge these deep-rooted taboos, a dedicated team of 20 female volunteers from the NSS Unit undertook a meaningful outreach program at the Sudhaar Camp. Their mission was to raise awareness about menstruation and sexual health, fostering open dialogue and empowering women with knowledge.

The team engaged with young girls, mothers, and elderly women, initiating honest conversations on a topic that is rarely discussed in public spaces. A powerful and relatable skit was performed by the volunteers, depicting the experience of a young girl getting her first period and highlighting the societal reactions, fears, and misconceptions she faces. The skit catalyzed discussion, encouraging women to share their experiences and thoughts and helping break the silence surrounding menstruation.

Following the performance, the volunteers launched a door-to-door awareness campaign. They visited each household in the camp, discussing critical topics such as menstrual hygiene, early signs of reproductive health issues, and practical steps for maintaining good menstrual and sexual health. Each household was given a small hamper containing Jan-Aushadhi sanitary pads and informative pamphlets. These pamphlets not only provided essential health information but also listed nearby doctors and pharmacies, offering a practical resource for the community

On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, the NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College, in association with Dadhichi Deh Dan Samiti, organized an insightful seminar on Organ Donation. Just as the festival signifies generosity through the donation of food grains, this session highlighted the life-saving impact of organ donation.

The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Prof. D.S. Chauhan, Chairman of Deshbandhu College, and Prof. Rajendra Kumar Pandey, Principal. We were honored to host Dr. Vishal Chadha, Joint General Secretary of Dadhichi Deh Dan Samiti, as the Chief Guest, along with Mr. Sunil Gandharva, Co-Convenor of Dadhichi Deh Dan Samiti. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Priti Rai, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, Shyama Prasad Mukherji College, who provided valuable insights into the ethical considerations, myths, and transformative potential of organ donation.

Held on 14th January 2025, the seminar fostered thought-provoking discussions, raising awareness about the critical need for organ donors. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the donation process and how a single decision can save multiple lives. The session encouraged participants to reflect on their role in promoting this noble cause

The NSS Unit, in collaboration with Sewa Vibhag (Dakshini) and the Rotary Blood Bank, was proud to organize a Blood Donation Camp aimed at fostering a spirit of social responsibility and compassion. This noble initiative encouraged students, faculty, and community members to step forward and contribute towards saving lives through voluntary blood donation.

Blood donation is a selfless act that has the power to make a profound impact on those in need. Every drop of blood donated can mean the difference between life and death for patients undergoing surgery, accident victims, individuals battling chronic illnesses, and those suffering from blood disorders such as thalassemia and hemophilia. Recognising this, the camp educated and inspired the participants about the importance of regular blood donation in maintaining a stable and sufficient supply in blood banks

To ensure a safe and seamless experience, trained medical professionals were present throughout the event. They conferred participants with medical information and histories of diseases. Hygiene and safety protocols were strictly followed to create a comfortable environment for participants.

On the occasion of World Literacy Day on 8th September 2024, NSS Deshbandhu College organized a meaningful donation drive aimed at promoting the importance of literacy and fostering creativity among children. The event was spearheaded by a dedicated team comprising NSS - CDC heads (Child Development Cell), volunteers, Outreach heads, and WEC (Women Empowerment Cell) representatives working together to engage and educate young minds.

The drive was a vibrant and interactive initiative designed to make learning fun and memorable. For older children, the team brought challenging puzzles to stimulate their problem-solving skills and analytical thinking. Meanwhile, younger children were encouraged to express their creativity through drawing activities. The best artwork was rewarded with a set of colours, boosting the children's enthusiasm and motivating them to unleash their artistic potential.

On 13th August 2024, the National Service Scheme (NSS) successfully organized the Yuva Manthan Model United Nations (YM-MUN) under the aegis of Viksit Bharat and Yuva Manthan, centred around the visionary theme of 2047, India at 100. The event brought together dynamic youth to engage in thought-provoking discussions, offering a platform to articulate innovative solutions and visionary policies for a developed India by 2047

The event was graced by esteemed guests. Ms. Yogita Singh, MCD Councillor from Kalkaji Ward and Vice President of BJP Delhi, shared her insights on grassroots governance and women’s empowerment. With her extensive experience as Director of NHDC Textiles and President of BJP Delhi Mahila Morcha, she inspired the young delegates with her pragmatic approach towards policy-making.

The second guest, Ms. Aishwarya Singh, an Advisor in Yuva Manthan, social activist, and member of the National Mahila Morcha Team BJP, spoke about the active role youth should play in building India’s future, especially considering the importance of participatory governance and being an active citizen.

The sessions, having many intense debates, diplomatic negotiations, and strategic policy recommendations, served to demonstrate the group of participants’ depth of knowledge and analysis. The stimulating competition enriched the youth’s understanding of governance globally and domestically while also providing opportunities for critical thinking, abilities in public speaking, and global awareness. Overall, the event ended well and energized the participants to support building a prosperous and empowered India by 2047.

As part of the Species-Specific National Campaign on Ashwagandha — a revered medicinal plant known for its multifaceted health-promoting properties — Deshbandhu College proudly organized a mega Ashwagandha Awareness and Distribution Drive. This initiative was conducted with the support and guidance of the National Medicinal Plants Board, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.

The drive aimed to foster awareness about the traditional knowledge and therapeutic significance of Ashwagandha, an herb celebrated in Ayurveda for its role in boosting immunity, reducing stress, enhancing mental clarity, and improving overall well-being. Beyond health promotion, the campaign emphasized the importance of sustainable cultivation and responsible use of medicinal plants, thereby aligning with the Government of India’s larger vision to integrate Ayurveda and holistic wellness into mainstream healthcare practices.

Launched on 18th March 2025, the Ashwagandha Drive spanned two impactful weeks, concluding on 2nd April 2025. The campaign was driven by the combined efforts of four enthusiastic teams, with the NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College taking a leading role. Through tireless on-ground coordination, volunteer engagement, and strategic outreach, the initiative successfully covered key locations across Delhi, including North Campus, Rohini, Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and the college campus itself. The campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, local residents, and community members.

In a truly remarkable feat, more than 2 lakh Ashwagandha saplings were distributed during the campaign. These saplings not only served as symbols of wellness and environmental consciousness but also acted as a step toward creating a greener, healthier future. The event stood as a testament to the power of youth-driven community service and the meaningful impact of collective action.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the National Medicinal Plants Board and the Ministry of AYUSH for their unwavering support and guidance. We also thank the dedicated NSS volunteers, faculty coordinators, and participating students whose energy and commitment made this campaign a resounding success. A special acknowledgment goes out to the local communities who welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm and actively engaged with the campaign. Together, we have sown the seeds—literally and figuratively—for a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow.

The NSS unit of Deshbandhu college in collaboration with UDAAN: Language and Communication vertical, successfully organised a Workshop and Competition on Storytelling and Ad Making on the 9th of April, 2025. The event was designed as an immersive experience for students passionate about the art of storytelling and advertising, and it truly lived up to its promise. The session was graced by the presence of Sri Ankur Suman, the renowned scriptwriter of the film Kaagaz, who brought with him a wealth of knowledge and industry inside. Having worked on hundreds of campaigns and ad films, and having contributed to brands like Induslnd Bank, Sony, HewlettPackard, Whirlpool, Fortis, UNICEF, UTV Movies, and Air India, among others, Shri Suman’s session was both enlightening and inspiring.

The day began with a workshop, where participants gained practical insights into storytelling and ad making processes learning directly from real industry examples and Shri Suman's personal experiences - followed by competitions conducted in two categories. The storytelling competition revolved around the theme “Ahilyabai Holkar and The Great Women From India”, highlighting the rich legacy of Indian women leaders. Simultaneously, the ad making competition focused on the theme “Indian Knowledge System”, encouraging participants to explore and present India's traditional wisdom through creative formats. Both competitions were held in Hindi and English, allowing broader participation and expression.

Overall, the event turned out to be a highly engaging and enriching experience for budding storytellers, aspiring advertisers, and all those with a passion for creative expression. It fostered a spirit of innovation, cultural pride and collaboration among the participants. It not only offered valuable insights into the field of storytelling and advertising but also inspired participants to express themselves innovatively. With themes rooted in cultural heritage and knowledge, the event fostered a strong sense of creativity, collaboration, and pride in India's rich legacy, making it a truly memorable experience for all involved.

The NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College organized its vibrant and inspiring annual fest “SIDDHI 2025” On 17th April 2025, a celebration of service, creativity, and cultural heritage. Bringing together the energy of youth and unwavering commitment to social responsibility, SIDDHI 2025 was more than just an event—it was a celebration of service, creativity, and community. With a dynamic blend of competitions, cultural performances, and inspiring addresses, the fest served as a platform for students to express, engage, and empower. Proudly presented with the generous support of our Title Sponsor – Big Muscles, the fest celebrated the spirit of service, creativity, and community engagement.

The fest began on a traditional and auspicious note with the arrival of esteemed chief guests—Padmashree awardee Dr. Nalini Asthana, Dr. Kamalini Asthana, and Dr. Shruti R. Mishra, Convenor of Udaan. The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and prayers to Lord Ganesha, followed by a heartfelt rendition of the Delhi University Lok Geet, the NSS Lakshya Geet, and Saraswati Vandana. Following this, Prof. Ajay Pratap Singh Gahlot, the NSS Programme Officer, addressed the gathering, highlighting the impactful work done by the NSS unit throughout the year. The chief guest, Dr. Nalini Asthana, shared insightful words on the power of art and service to the nation. A major highlight was the launch of the NSS official website and handbook, marking a milestone in the unit’s digital journey. Dr. Shruti R. Mishra introduced “Udaan,” a cultural and social platform encouraging students to express themselves through storytelling and ad-making, rooted in the Indian Knowledge System. Prizes were awarded to winners of related workshops.

To commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the first Law Minister of independent India and the architect of the Indian Constitution, the NSS Unit of Deshbandhu College organized a Padyatra on 11th April 2025.

The event began in the college premises, where a large number of NSS volunteers and faculty members gathered with enthusiasm and respect. Under the guidance of NSS Programme Officer Prof. Ajay Pratap Gehlot, the volunteers took a collective pledge by reading the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, reaffirming their commitment to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Following the pledge, the gathering offered Pushpanjali (floral tribute) to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, paying their respects to the visionary leader whose contribution to Indian society and law remains unparalleled.

The Padyatra commenced from Deshbandhu College and covered areas of Kalkaji around college, creating awareness among local residents about Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy. The volunteers walked together raising the powerful slogan “Baba Ambedkar amar the, amar rahe”,  echoing through the streets and evoking deep sentiments of respect and pride. The rally was marked by discipline, unity, and the spirit of service, reflecting the true values of the National Service Scheme.

The Padyatra concluded as the volunteers returned to the college after successfully spreading the message of social justice, equality, and empowerment, ideals for which Dr. Ambedkar stood throughout his life. The event was a tribute not just in remembrance but also in action — a celebration of a life that transformed India and inspired generations.