- 21st meeting of National Service Scheme Advisory Committee concluded
The 21st meeting of the National Service Scheme Advisory Committee of the Indira Gandhi Agricultural University was held today in the auditorium of the College of Agriculture, Raipur. Important topics such as social service, cleanliness, environmental protection, and youth empowerment were discussed extensively. Chaired by Vice Chancellor Dr. Girish Chandel, the meeting began with an inspiring message from Dean of Student Welfare, Dr. Sanjay Sharma, “You before yourself.” He emphasized the importance of making cleanliness an integral part of our lifestyle. Following this, Dr. Neeta Bajpai, State Coordinator of the National Service Scheme, highlighted the importance of blood donation, saying it is a vital means of saving lives in emergency situations, and public awareness is essential. Dr. Girish Chandel suggested conducting cleanliness as a public campaign on the university campus, emphasizing the active participation of students.
The meeting focused on environmental protection, water source cleaning, tree planting, and drug de-addiction initiatives undertaken by the “Green Army NGO.” Concerning water conservation, concerns were expressed that increasing pollution is impacting water sources and that approximately 30% of drinking water is being wasted. The need for remedial measures was emphasized. A pledge was also made to eliminate single-use plastic and reduce the use of plastic bottles. Dr. Ratna Nashine shared her experiences, emphasizing the need to engage youth in social service through the National Service Scheme. She mentioned activities such as the Peace Marathon in Abujhmad, the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, weed management, vaccination programs, and the Millets Mission. Training and achievements also included discussions on preparing students for PTI training and national awards, ensuring their holistic development.
Dr. Ashutosh described workshops and meetings as important means of knowledge and awareness. Sakshi Singh, while appreciating the work done by the National Service Scheme over the past four years, expressed the need for more efforts in the environmental field. Finally, Dr. Subuhi Nishad emphasized the need to regularly organize blood donation and social awareness programs, especially highlighting the need to create awareness among women, youth, and the economically weaker sections. At the conclusion of the program, gratitude was expressed to all guests and participants. All members of the National Service Scheme family, adopting the basic mantra of “You before yourself,” pledged to remain continuously dedicated to social service.