The National Service Scheme (NSS) Annual Camp for the year 2024-2025 was held at Government Higher Primary School, Narikombu, Dakshina Karnataka, from the 20 to t 26 February 2025.
Day 1: Inauguration
The camp commenced with a formal inaugural function. The distinguished guests present were:
- Mr. Ramakrishna Rao (Director, Dutt Samithi Chinnara Loka Seva Bandhu)
- Mr. Santhosh Kumar (President, Gram Panchayat, Narikombu)
- Mrs. Mohini Vaman Kulal (Vice President, Gram Panchayat, Narikombu)
- Mr. Kishore Shetty (Member, Gram Panchayat, Narikombu)
- Mrs. Pushpavathi Dejappa Darkas (President, SDMC)
- Mrs. Presilla
- Mr. Lohith Rai
- Mr. Prakash Garodi
- Mr. Sakshath Shetty Kavoor
The students were divided into four teams named after characters from the Mahabharata. Each team was assigned the following duties on a rotational basis:
- Cleaning
- Cultural
- Escort
- Kitchen
The day began at 5:30 AM with a serene Bhajan session, followed by the flag hoisting ceremony at 6:00 AM, fostering national pride and unity. This was followed by invigorating Zumba and physical exercises.
Shramadhana
At 8:00 AM, the core activity of the camp, Shramadhana, commenced. Volunteers dedicated themselves to community service, which included clearing overgrown vegetation and repairing damaged infrastructure. This activity fostered teamwork, discipline, and a sense of social responsibility.
Cultural Program
From 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, formal functions, cultural performances, and games were held. Each night concluded with an evaluation session, where achievements were celebrated, and areas for improvement were discussed.
Gramasameeksha
As part of community outreach, NSS volunteers conducted a door-to-door survey in the locality, gathering valuable data on the residents’ socio-economic conditions and daily lifestyles. The villagers warmly welcomed the volunteers and generously contributed coconuts and groceries.
Day 2
The day began with the flag hoisting by Mr. Yogesh Bhandari, a respected local farmer, followed by his insightful speech on the virtues of a simple lifestyle. The volunteers then engaged in Zumba, followed by Shramadhana.
Post lunch, Mr. Jeevan Kolya, organizer of Bharatiya Vikas Trust, Manipal, delivered a guest lecture. The day concluded with Chinthanamanthana (reflection and brainstorming) and a cultural program.
Day 3
The day followed a similar structure with flag hoisting, yoga, and games. The highlight of the day was the Alumni Meet, where former NSS volunteers shared their experiences and engaged in cultural performances with the current batch. The alumni later served dinner to the volunteers, strengthening intergenerational bonds.
Day 4
The day began with flag hoisting by Ms. Pooja, a college staff member. Activities included volleyball matches, Shramadhana, and a Kunitha Bhajan session, where volunteers enthusiastically participated.
The evening’s cultural program was graced by esteemed guests:
- Mr. Raj Buntwal (Journalist)
- Ms. Zeeta Menezes (Retired Principal, Adarsha High School, Moodabidri)
- Mr. Shrikant (Vice President, SDMC)
The day concluded with Chinthanamanthana.
Day 5
The morning started with the flag hoisting by Mr. Rajesh Darkas, a talented local artist. Volunteers enjoyed a morning walk, followed by group games and Shramadhana.
Preparations began for the Shibira Jyothi event. The evening featured speeches by Mr. Ganesh Kumar and Mr. Vasanth Jain, followed by cultural performances and interactive games. A special ceremony honored Mr. Vasanth Jain, a retiring non-teaching staff member of SDMCBM College, Mangalore.
Day 6
The final day of routine activities began with flag hoisting by Mr. Damodar Kebettu, followed by Zumba and preparations for Shibira Jyothi.
At 9:00 AM, volunteers participated in Kesaru Gaddhe games, which provided immense enjoyment. The cultural night was themed “Tulunadu Vaibhava,” celebrating Mangalorean culture.
Shibira Jyothi Ceremony
This ceremony symbolized the unity and service values instilled during the camp. Volunteers lit diyas along an Indian map while singing patriotic songs. The event concluded with a gala dinner.
Day 7: Valedictory Ceremony
The final day featured the valedictory program, recognizing the best performers:
- Best All-Rounder
- Best Camper
- Best Leader
The ceremony was graced by Professor Aruna P. Kamath, our college principal, marking the official conclusion of the NSS camp.
The camp was successfully coordinated by student coordinators Veekshith and Monisha Gatty, along with staff coordinators Dr. Jyothi and Mr. Sudharshan. Their dedication and leadership ensured a well-organized and impactful experience for all participants.
The NSS Annual Camp 2024-2025 was a transformative experience, fostering community service, leadership, and cultural enrichment. Volunteers left with cherished memories, a strengthened sense of responsibility, and a deeper connection with society. The spirit of NSS—“Not Me, But You”—was truly embodied throughout the camp.