NSS Camp '14

Poorna Nilkund | Corresspondent

The National Service Scheme unit of SIES GST organized a camp at Hindu Seva Sangh located in Mamnoli, a small town on Kalyan-Ahmednngar Highway. The NSS Representative, Ameya Kale took high responsibility to synchronize NSS’s primary agenda (create awareness and devotedly work towards the development of the society) with the 41 students who were handpicked for the camp.

Mamnoli is a picturesque village and a cornucopia of nature’s abundance. The aura of the village is serene and exemplifies the modest lifestyle of the villagers. A non-polluting and a renewable energy resource is the need of the hour and hence to implement a vital and trouble-free solution, Mr. Epte has taken up the bio-gas project in the village. A bio-gas plant efficiently reduces the use of fuel wood and also improves sanitation and hygiene.

The day began at its enthusiastic best. The volunteers were shivering at the biting winter winds, which was unusual from the urban weather conditions. Rising early definitely perks up the creativity and allows an individual to give his 100% in the task assigned. The routine took off by reciting the morning prayers followed by yoga asanas and exercises. Later, everyone had to spend their time doing Shramdaan (voluntary contribution). It was basically an opportunity for the campers to step out of their shoes and work for the society ardently. An interactive session was arranged with the under privileged students who stay at a nearby place. After hearing their stories, seeing their hardships, a desire to overcome the situation & their fundamental optimism & decency, the volunteers were moved & inspired.

NSS aims at developing the interpersonal skills and introduces a person to the innate qualities he/she possesses. The pick of the camp was therefore a session at a nearby school where the volunteers interacted with the students and addressed some of their difficulties/problems. NSS volunteers discovered their passion for teaching and in the process garnered appreciation from the Principal of the school. The last day was marked with rallies propagating messages on population control, importance of education, female infanticide to name a few. The volunteers added an element of fun and ensured that the message was conveyed effectively.

In today’s cut-throat society, the camp provided an opportunity to every volunteer to bond well and work together as a team thereby developing competence in overall life skills.