NSS Volunteers Lead Transformational Community Outreach in Barog.
Shimla:
The seven-day special camp organised by the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit of Vallabh Government College, Mandi, emerged as a strong example of youth-led social transformation, with volunteers making sustained efforts to promote cleanliness, civic responsibility, environmental conservation, women empowerment, cultural values and a drug-free society in Barog village and adjoining panchayat areas in Mandi district.
The camp was inaugurated on December 22 by the college Principal, Dr Sanjeev Kumar, who emphasised the role of NSS in shaping socially responsible citizens and urged volunteers to adopt service, discipline and cooperation as lifelong values.
Throughout the camp, NSS volunteers remained deeply engaged with the community. A major highlight was an extensive door-to-door awareness drive covering nearly 150 families, during which residents were sensitised about cleanliness, segregation of waste and scientific disposal of garbage, strengthening awareness about sustainable and healthy living.
Environmental conservation formed a key pillar of the camp. Volunteers undertook the cleaning and revival of traditional natural water sources, including stepwells near Dudar village, conveying a strong message on preserving and reviving water bodies for future generations. The volunteers also visited Pandoh, Nachan van Vihar and the Baglamukhi Temple, where they collected plastic waste and spread awareness about maintaining cleanliness at public and religious places.
The camp placed strong emphasis on civic awareness and democratic responsibility. Through SVEEP activities, rallies and interactive sessions, volunteers educated villagers and school students about the importance of voting, civic sense and active participation in democracy.
Special attention was given to the holistic development of school students. An expert-led career counselling session was conducted by Dr Sanjay Kumar, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Vallabh Government College, Mandi, who guided students on career planning, self-awareness and informed decision-making. Students were also sensitised about the POCSO Act, making them aware of child safety, legal rights and protective mechanisms.
A large anti-drug awareness rally, covering nearly four kilometres, witnessed participation of around 200 students from Vallabh Government College and Government Senior Secondary School, Barog, along with teachers, principals and NSS Programme Officers. The rally delivered a strong message against substance abuse and received wide appreciation from the community.
Women empowerment initiatives were carried out through close interaction with Self-Help Groups and Mahila Mandals, where women were informed about health, hygiene, government welfare schemes and livelihood opportunities. Training on utilisation of pine needles (chir pine) for income generation effectively linked environmental sustainability with economic self-reliance.
Alongside community outreach, NSS volunteers also conducted cleanliness and beautification drives within the college campus, including wall paintings and decorative activities. Cleanliness drives were extended to the teachers’ colony, strengthening volunteers’ sense of belongingness, ownership and emotional connection with their institution.
The camp equally focused on the mental and emotional well-being of volunteers. For all seven days, students underwent well-being training by a Brahma Kumaris resource person, focusing on stress management, de-addiction, harmony in relationships and development of positive habits.
The success of the camp was strengthened through effective coordination by Lekh Raj Jamwal, Principal of Government Senior Secondary School, Barog, and Vijender, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Bhraun.
A friendly volleyball match between the teams of Government Senior Secondary School, Barog, and Vallabh Government College promoted sportsmanship and healthy interaction. Cultural vibrancy was added through a traditional Pahadi Nati, showcasing local heritage and values.
The camp concluded with a well-organised closing ceremony, during which a powerful street play on drug de-addiction was performed by NSS volunteers.
The ceremony was graced by the Superintendent of Police, Mandi, Sakshi Verma, who highly appreciated the dedicated efforts of the volunteers and commended their contribution towards building a cleaner, aware and responsible society. She felicitated the best volunteers, awarding prizes to Khushbu and Ashish for their exemplary service.
The camp was successfully coordinated under the guidance of NSS Programme Officers Dr Deepali Ashok and Dr Anuj Kumar. By the end of the week, the initiative had not only improved physical surroundings but also strengthened civic consciousness, social harmony and community bonding, reaffirming the transformative role of youth in nation building.
