VISIT TO EARTH SAVIOURS FOUNDATION
(16rd April, 2017)
To celebrate the true spirit of Good Friday, NSS HANSRAJ visited EARTH SAVIOURS FOUNDATION in Bandhwari, Gurugram once again with a team of around 40 volunteers from all the wings of NSS to spread the love amongst people with pure souls and great personalities who were abandoned by their own loved ones. The NSS family not only donated food, clothes and many indoor games, but also their time and love to help these people rise up. NSS volunteers had a great time there as they served them with their own hands, listened to the residents' stories and spent time with them. The most wonderful thing is the positive vibe that emanated from the place, spreading positivity and optimism in each direction. A special thanks to Mr. Ravi Kalra who has spent his entire life serving these people with a selfless motive. He embodies NSS's motto of 'Service before self' completely. The experience motivated every person present there to serve the society selflessly.
CAREER COUNSELLING SESSION 2017
(23rd March, 2017)
23rd March 2017 marked a career counselling session in the calenders of PADHAKU. The students from class 8th to 12th were informed about the different courses of education and career prospects. The session was highly interactive with well informed volunteers and inquisitive children and we hope that this session would help them mould their ambitions and achieve them with a better approach.
NSS AT WALKATHON 2017
(22nd March, 2017)
As a part of the WORLD WATER DAY Celebrations ,NSS Hansraj took a part in WALKATHON organised by the ministry. NSS and NCC teams of various colleges took part in the event. First of all the registrations were done and following that there was the inauguration by a cabinet minister, then then after that the volunteers took a round and took a pledge to save water then were made to sit on the road and made to sing some jingles following which the students were given refreshments.
PLEDGE TO CONSERVE WATER
(22nd March, 2017)
On March 22, 2017 i.e. *WORLD WATER DAY* , NSS Hansraj organised a pledge taking ceremony in which the volunteers enthusiastically participated and took an oath to conserve water and never to waste even a single drop. Also they pledged to propagate this idea to the public and make sure that water is used wisely.
THE ANNUAL SPORTS DAY
(21st March, 2017)
An annual sports day was organised by NSS for the kids of Padhaku in the college ground. The day was a fun respite for the kids while helping them in their overall development by ensuring their active participation in sports. The kids were divided into separate groups on the basis of their age and various sports competitions were held. Kho-kho, relay race, tug-of-war, jalebi race, three legged race were some of the many games organised by the team of NSS. A prize distribution ceremony was held at the end to present the winners of the games with medals and other prizes. The chief guest of the evening was Mr. Jinender Jain, who is a Hansraj alumni and a benefactor to Padhaku. All in all, the children had a fun day and learnt some great values like sportsmanship and teamwork.
UTSAV 2017 - DAY 2
(4th March, 2017)
On the second day of Utsav'17, the annual festival of NSS Hansraj, various programmes took the audience by awe. The day started late after noon in the college auditorium. With the lighting of the lamp and beautiful welcome and encouraging songs being sung by children from Padhaku, the ones present witnessed the dispelling of pessimism in the sector of social service. Amid all the calliphony, the guests were felicitated by the convener. The founder of 'The earth Saviors Foundation', Ravi Kalja spoke and enlightened the audience about the dire conditions, the underprivileged, destitute, and helpless are subjected to. The children from Padhaku in best of their attires with their innocent smiles on, entertained the hall by the amalgam of dance performances. Mr. Arvind from NGO Goonj then addressed the people and told about the many initiatives taken by the NGO to make the society a better place. The documentary about PADHAKU followed; with the various changes NSS Hansraj has over the years been able to bring and the prospect that lies in the future, was all put together creatively in the documentary. The programme concluded on a note of happiness and optimism. Indeed, the day introduced a lot of fun in the lives of people.
UTSAV 2017 - DAY 1
(3rd March, 2017)
On the first day of Utsav, 2017, NSS hansraj unveiled its first event "the game zone". It was a fun event which left everyone entralled. The most popular event at game zone was the golgappa eating competition! Another event was the game -"Spin for a cause" in which the participants had to spin a wheel and then do tasks which were both fun filled and dedicated to a social cause. For instance, one of the task was to get a picture clicked with placards denoting busted myths. There was also a bioscope that showed a video. The video summarized all about NSS hansraj and its activities. It highlighted the cause behind NSS- "service before self" and its journey. All in all, the "game zone" took the participants on a memorable and momentous ride with a unique range of activities.
THE ANNUAL PADHAKU TRIP
(18th February, 2017)
The annual Padhaku trip is a source of exposure and recreation for the kids. This year, the children were first taken to the Rashtrapati Bhawan to witness the Changing the Guard ceremony. The children enjoyed the ceremony, mainly because all of them were fascinated by the horses. Then the kids were taken to National Science Centre where they were excited to see various wonders of science. They were also shown a 3D movie about dinosaurs which was informative as well as fun. The kids spent a lot of time seeing the various exhibits at the Science Centre. Lunch was served to the children in the canteen of the Centre itself. To end the trip on an exciting note, the children were taken to the Rajghat park where they spent their time playing games with the volunteers and coordinators. Even at the end of the day, the children were not tired and spent the bus ride back singing songs. All in all, the trip was both educational and recreational and the day can be considered well spent.
BLOOD DONATION CAMP - LOVE WEEK DAY 7
(15th February, 2017)
"Blood donation is the greatest service to mankind", with this thought in mind, NSS Hansraj organised a blood donation camp on 15th February in collaboration with BloodConnect and Lady Hardinge Medical College. More than 150 people registered and 100+ turned up for the same. With such an overwhelming number of people turning up to show the care they harbour for the human clan, the camp, indeed, proved a success. A dental checkup camp in collaboration with 'iSmile', was organised simultaneously for Padhaku (Education wing) children. Initiatives like these, are often taken by NSS Hansraj to uphold it's commitment of working for a change in the society.
NUKKAD NATAK ON TOPIC - INDIAN MUSLIM - BY AVEKSHA - LOVE WEEK DAY 6
(14th February, 2017)
Continuing with our practice of spreading awareness about various social issues, NSS Hansraj in collaboration with Aveksha, the theatre group of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University and USS, arranged a nukkad natak on the topic, Indian Muslim. A huge crowd gathered around the canteen area to watch the play. The play focused on the bias against Muslims currently prevalent in India and the stigma attached to being an Indian Muslim. The splendid performance by the Aveksha theatre group was incredibly moving. We can only hope that our small effort helped in sensitizing the crowd about this important social issue.
VISIT TO AN ANIMAL SHELTER - FRIENDICOS - LOVE WEEK DAY 5
(10th February, 2017)
Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened. Human beings are not the only ones in need of love and company, so to share our love with some animals in desperate need of it, NSS Hansraj organised a visit to Friendicos, an animal shelter in Defence colony, Jangpura. The animal shelter acts as a treatment and rehabilitation centre for injured, sick and abandoned dogs.The coordinators and volunteers reached the shelter in the morning bringing with them loads of bread, biscuits and dog food. The volunteers had an amazing time playing with the dogs, petting them and taking them for walks in the nearby park. The owner of the shelter was a warm and hospitable lady who welcomed us all readily as she wanted the youth to be aware of the atrocities that these poor, voiceless animals have gone through. The dogs were excited to have playmates for the day and were very energetic throughout the day. At the end of the day, nobody wanted to leave the shelter as the dogs had taken a special place in everyone's heart.
VISIT TO KILKARI RAINBOW HOME FOR GIRLS - LOVE WEEK DAY 4
(9th February, 2017)
Continuing with our mission of spreading love, NSS Hansraj visited Kilkari Rainbow Home, Kashmere Gate, Delhi on the 9th of February' 17. The volunteers spent quality time with the 140 orphan and displaced girls within the home which provides education, healthcare, nutrition, clothing, and most importantly love and support to the homeless girls. It was an enriching experience for the entire team. Essentials like rice, and toiletries like sanitary napkins were distributed among the girls. The team put together a hygiene kit containing combs, nail cutters, shampoos, lip balms, etc. for the girls. The volunteers indulged in one on one interaction with the girls, getting an insight into their daily lives and their experiences there, trying to relax them a wee bit and listening to the struggles they had endured. Volunteers had a gala time playing games with them and got an opportunity to relive their own childhood. Finally, some toffees were distributed among the girls as tokens of our love. The smiles on their vibrant faces were our reward for the day.
VISIT TO EARTH SAVIOURS FOUNDATION FOR THE OLD AND DISABLED - LOVE WEEK DAY 3
(8th February, 2017)
As a part of the ongoing love week, NSS Hansraj on Feb 8, 2017 organised INSAANIYAT: Priceless treasure of human nature- a visit to Earth Saviours Foundation in Badhwari, Gurgaon. More than 40 volunteers along with the respective heads went to meet the old people and interacted with them. They took along with them porridge, sponge balls for arthritis patients, medicines and injections. They also took aloe vera juice for the aged ones. Our volunteers talked to them about their problems and got to know how they ended up there, some of them being IAS officers, engineers, etc. The stories of the people unveiled that how neglect and abandonment had formed the landscape of their life. It was overwhelming to know how they had turned their pain into motivation and unacceptance to self love while keeping the spirit to live- alive, during the test of time. It was upsetting to know that the people over there had been ill treated and thrown out of their homes, forced to live their lives in darkness. Still in the darkest of times, these people came out to be heroes. Their stories brought tears to everyone's eyes and sorrow to their hearts. It is shameful that in a country like India which is an abode of rich traditions and cultures and respecting elders is the most valuable moral, old and differently abled people have to face such adversities which make them helpless. It is indeed the disablity of the society to not look beyond their disablity. Volunteers also served food to the 385 residents, out of which 85% were mentally unstable. After this, the volunteers also played games with the patients. This made the patients really happy and comfortable as the NSS team lent a helping hand and was all ears to listen to their problems.
PADHAKU HYGIENE DAY
(8th February, 2017)
"Hygiene is two-thirds of health". In our continuing effort to keep our kids aware of the world around them, Padhaku, Hansraj College, brings up Padhaku Hygiene Day on 8th February 2017 . "Life is a battle ground - you have to fight to survive, with health as prime sheild ".This message was conveyed to our kids in an interactive session. The kids were made to wash their hands and face thereby passing a message that we can achieve nothing physically, mentally or spiritually if we are unclean in our body, mind, or soul. Their faces were wiped with handkerchiefs which were distributed in the event. Kids were then asked to put Vaseline on their lips and cream on their faces. This was followed by a session of combing hair, telling them the importance to keep our body clean and have a bath daily with toilet soap or shampoo well applied to all parts of our body in order to maintain a good health. Moreover, their nails were cut and they were informed about the side effects of germs that stick to their bodies in case they don't maintain a proper hygiene everyday. Finally, we concluded our session by distributing winter clothes to the young kids who were delighted upon receiving our lovely surprise.
VISIT TO PRABHA INSTITUTE FOR DIFFERENTLY ABLED CHILDREN - LOVE WEEK DAY 2
(7th February, 2017)
"INAAYAT: Autism speaks, it's time to listen". On the second day of NSS Hansraj love week, 7th Feb, the team visited the Delhi Prabha School and spent some quality time with the Autistic children there. We reached the school around 10:30, and found the children seated, eagerly waiting for our arrival. We spent about half an hour mingling with them, getting to know about their families, interests and talents. We played various games with them, to involve them; the highlight was the paper airplanes being flown around, which was a lot of fun for everyone. The volunteers were provided refreshments by the school. The drawing competition for the kids followed, during which the coordinators and volunteers sang songs, much to the kids’ delight. Fun and enjoyment didn't seem to cease; Music systems were set up, and the kids, danced to their favourite tunes. Their steps were a treat to the eyes, making everyone eager to dance along with them. How could anyone not engage in the party, that suddenly pressed of its being in the air? Everyone then danced together, the kids so comfortable with us; it seemed like they had known us for ages. The visit was concluded with gifts being given out to each of the kids for their lovely drawings. The team bid the kids farewell, neither of the lot wanting to part ways yet. The visit came to an end but the memories made will last for long; for love proliferates joy and joy, every being cherishes. Concluding thus with the visit on day 2 of the Love week, NSS Hansraj stays committed with the resolve of spreading happiness and smile on the faces.
KHUSHIYON KA AGAAZ - LOVE WEEK DAY 1
(6th February, 2017)
NSS Hansraj started out with a big bang on its first day of celebrating love week. On 6th Feb, the Love week started with KHUSHIYON KA AGAAZ. A huge crowd of NSS volunteers gathered at Vishwavidyalaya metro station early in the morning to start with CHAI PE CHARCHA. The team offered tea and snacks to the rickshaw pullers and discussed with them the effects of demonetization, asked about their business and sought their views on various issues. Thereafter, the volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help the rikshaw pullers and acquaint people around with the labour associated with the work. The NSS creative team did a splendid job on the decoration of cycle rickshaws to make them quite attractive, the purpose of which was to attract as many customers as we could. NSS volunteers from all wings took over the cycle rickshaws and worked very hard to help the rickshawwalas in their job. All the money that the vounteers earned was given back to the rickshawwalas. The main objective was not only to give a rest to the rickshaw pullers but also to enlighten people about their plight and the amount of hard work and daily labour they endure to feed their families. Going to the nearby colleges on the way back from the metro station, the volunteers distributed Love Week posters, thus concluding WALK-A-THON, while returning to the college. The volunteers were shouting slogans and carrying posters for the passers- by. We also interacted with the NSS units of other colleges and invited them personally. This was highly appreciated by the students of various colleges. The day did not just end there. FLASH MOB by the NSS volunteers stole the show in the Canteen Area(LP), when a huge crowd gathered to see the dance performance put together by the volunteers and coordinators of NSS. All in all, the first day of love week turned out to be a huge success.
PADHAKU VISIT TO THE TRAFFIC SAFETY PARK
(1st February, 2017)
The Padhaku wing of NSS moving forward with its idea of overall and holistic development of children, took the kids of Padhaku to Roshanara Park for a field visit. There, a traffic training seminar was held for them by an official who taught the kids how to recognise various traffic signs and how important it is to follow several traffic safety rules like the proper use of zebra crossings and pedestrian pavements. A cycling session was also conducted in which the kids were shown the correct and safe way of riding a bicycle. The field visit turned out to be a great success as the kids enjoyed a day out alongside gathering knowledge about new things.
SAKSHAM - PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT SESSION FOR PADHAKU
(30th January, 2017)
The Padhaku wing of NSS Hansraj in collaboration with Neenv - the HRD Cell, recently conducted a personality development session for the kids of Padhaku under the project titled Saksham. For years, Padhaku has been helping kids with their academics but it has taken a step forward to focus on the holistic development of underprivileged kids. The members of Neenv first had an introductory talk with the children asking them about their dreams and goals in life. The children were very responsive and had an active interaction with the members. The children enjoyed a break from their studies and were happy to connect with the volunteers of Neenv. They recited poems, introduced themselves and talked about their aspirations in life. The initiative taken by Neenv was appreciated by the kids as well as the members of the Padhaku team. Hopefully, all the hard work bears fruit and helps the children of Padhaku become better and more confident human beings. Also 30th January being Martyrs' Day, our national anthem was sung by all the children, volunteers and members of NSS. The children were made aware about the auspiciousness of the day as it is the death anniversary of the father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi. They were also asked to pay their respects to all the soldiers who make unlimited sacrifices for our safety and protection. The children were filled with feelings of patriotism and pride for their nation.
REPUBLIC DAY CELEBRATION 2017 - UNIVERSITY CAMPUS GOT ITS FIRST MONUMENTAL FLAG
(25th January, 2017)
The Republic Day Celebrations at Hansraj marked the day as a historic event as the University Campus got its First Monumental Flag. The event was graced by the well-known alumnus and renowned industrialist, Mr. Naveen Jindal and Mr. Praveen Dabas, an alumnus and actor. The flag hoisting ceremony witnessed the fervour and enormous joy and brought smiles on the faces of all present, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. The songs, music and dance by Swaranjali and Kavyakriti awed the audience. In the end, the all present took a mass pledge to become responsible citizens of the country and vote in every election.
DR. M.P. SHARMA'S INTERACTION WITH PADHAKU KIDS
(25th January, 2017)
Today, Dr. MP Sharma Sir of sports department interacted with our children, told them stories of great saints so as to inculcate the feeling of unity and patriotism in them. He also contributed various stationery items for the kids. The whole Padhaku Team is thankful to him.
FIRST VISIT TO BHALASWA CLUSTER AREA PROMOTING E-TRANSACTIONS
(21st January, 2017)
NSS Hans Raj recently joined hands with Viksit Gram Abhiyan, an NGO that promotes digitisation in villages, to launch its new project titled Samarpan. Under this project, NSS adopted its first village - Bhalaswa Cluster Area. On 21 January 2016, more than 60 of our volunteers took the initiative to educate as many people as they could, in the village, about the uses and the benefits of online payment apps and of e-transactions. The volunteers were divided in groups of 5 each and went around the village making shopkeepers and other villagers aware about the advantages of digital transactions. NSS Hans Raj was applauded for its efforts by the villagers who had suffered a lot due to the recent demonetization. All the volunteers were awarded certificates for their dedication and diligence. One can only hope that NSS's hard work bears fruit and helps to move India towards a cashless economy.
PADHAKU SESSION ON MENSTRUAL MYTHS
(20th January, 2017)
In India, across socioeconomic classes, girls are often considered impure, contaminated, and dirty when they menstruate. This manifests in severe exclusion, segregation, curtailed movements, and dietary restrictions for young girls and women. From being forbidden from entering the kitchen to eating in isolation, these customs and mores stem from seriously oppressive notions attached to menstruation. Silence feeds shame, shame feeds silence and this vicious circle has hampered the dialogue around menstrual hygiene from reaching some of the most disadvantaged women in India. To combat this problem Padhaku, NSS Hansraj in association with Goonj organised an interactive session on "Menstrual myths and taboos: What and what not to do" with our children and their mothers. The session was highly informative with good response from the audience and "My pads" ( a Goonj initiative) were distributed among them. We hope that this little step in the direction of menstrual awareness will act as a stepping stone to a healthy and aware community.
SELF DEFENCE WORKSHOP FOR GIRLS
(18th January, 2017)
NSS Hans Raj, in collaboration with the Women's Development Cell, Hansraj College, had planned out a self defence workshop for girls, which was underway on 18 January 2017. The workshop has already witnessed over 70 registrations and this number is increasing by the minute. In a society where violence against women is on the rise, acquainting women with self defence techniques, inter alia, is a dire necessity. By taking the initiative in organising this workshop, we plan on doing our bit in empowering women.
LOHRI FESTIVAL CELEBRATION
(12th January, 2017)
On 12 January 2017, NSS Hans Raj celebrated the festival of Lohri with the children associated with us through Padhaku. Being one of the most popular festivals of this region, Lohri marks the harvesting of the winter (Rabi) crops and people celebrate the bounty through traditional folk dances, songs and a delicious spread of dishes. There was a small fire and the students were narrated the story that marks the legacy of the festival. Packets of popcorn and peanuts, chocolates and Frooti, were distributed among them. NSS volunteers and the Padhaku students then indulged in a brief dancing session. Keeping in mind their studies, the celebration lasted only for about 45 minutes. All the volunteers participated very enthusiastically and due to this proactive participation, the celebration was made memorable.
PLEDGE TO PROMOTE DIGITAL TRANSACTIONS
(12th January, 2017)
Recently, NSS Hans Raj had taken the initiative to spread awareness among students and among shopkeepers, about the benefits of a digital economy, and that of cashless transactions, especially in light of the recent demonetisation policy pursued by the Government. In pursuit of the same, on 12 January 2017, a pledge was taken in the college ground by several students, where they promised to promote digital transactions. We, at NSS Hans Raj, are happy that we could do our bit and contribute to the achievement of our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi's vision of a Digital India.
LIVE WEBCAST WITH HONORABLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA
(10th January, 2017)
The Honorable President of India held a webcast on 10 January 2017 which was broadcast in the college through the efforts of NSS Hans Raj.The President, along with representatives from different institutions, talked of the importance of happiness and of how it not only impacts our day to day life but also the country as a whole. Happiness in India is on a decline as India ranks 118th in the Gross National Happiness Index. The index, being based on social indicators, shows how India lags in social support, positive social relations, healthy life expectancy and freedom from corruption. Thus, the purpose of the session well served the message that gross domestic happiness is as important as GDP itself.
BLANKET DONATION DRIVE
(18th December, 2016)
NSS Hans Raj organised a Blanket Donation Drive on 18 December 2016 during midnight, ie, from 12:30-1:00 am, for the homeless and the underprivileged. As part of this drive, we went live on Facebook for the first time. The event turned out to be a great success as the team distributed around 70-80 blankets. Apart from blankets, we also distributed food in the form of sweets, among those who were in need of it. We would like to thank our Principal Dr. Rama and our convener Dr. Baljeet Kaur as this event would not have been a success if it wasn't for their constant support and guidance.
SPREADING AWARENESS ABOUT VITTIYA SAKSHARTA ABHIYAN
Recently, NSS Hans Raj participated in the 'Vittiya Saksharta Abhiyan', launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development in light of the demonetisation scheme, to spread awareness about cashless economic transactions. NSS volunteers visited Kamla Nagar, Malka Ganj and surrounding areas and conducted awareness sessions with vendors, shopkeepers and customers about the various benefits of digital transactions. The campaign was a success as the volunteers were able to apprise a lot of people of the features and the benefits of a cashless economy. We can only hope that this financial revolution narrows the gap between the rich and the poor and leads to a better India.
LIVE TELECAST OF ANNUAL CONVOCATION CEREMONY
(19th November, 2016)
On 19th November, we arranged a live telecast of the 93rd Annual Convocation Ceremony of the University of Delhi in the conference room of Hansraj College. The telecast, which began at 2 pm, was attended by more than 30 volunteers, by our Principal and by several teachers. Everyone present was provided with refreshments after the conclusion of the ceremony.
AWARENESS RALLY AGAINST CORRUPTION
(4th November, 2016)
As part of the ongoing Vigilance Awareness Week, NSS Hans Raj organised an awareness rally on November 4 2016. The rally aimed at enticing among the public a policy of zero tolerance towards corruption and at apprising them of its ill effects. Led by our convenor Dr. Baljeet Kaur, teachers of Hansraj College and NSS volunteers raised several slogans against corruption. The event turned out to be a great success as it managed to communicate to the students the need to get the country rid of the evil that is corruption.
POSTER MAKING COMPETION
(3rd November, 2016)
On 3 November, we organised a poster making competition as a part of the ongoing Vigilance Awareness Week. The theme of the event was "A Corruption free India". The event, held at the amphitheatre, saw several students coming forward to display their creative acumen. The posters showcased what the country could achieve in the absence of corruption. Also, they highlighted the importance of public participation, zero tolerance and integrity in eradicating this evil. The event managed to impart awareness against corruption, the sole cause for the paralysis of our entire administrative system.
RASHTRIYA EKTA DIWAS CELEBRATION
(31st October, 2016)
As a mark of respect to the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, we commemorate his birth anniversary, on 31 October each year, as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. This year, NSS Hans Raj held a mass pledge taking ceremony and a unity run, both aimed at the propagation of the idea of national unity The pledge, taken at the LP, saw more than 40 volunteers dedicating themselves to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation.The unity run, held at Mahatma Hansraj Road, aimed at imparting awareness regarding the need for national unity. We, at NSS Hans Raj, believe that we left no stone unturned in honouring Sardar Patel's legacy.
INSPECTION OF SANITATION FACILITIES
(28th October, 2016)
In accordance with our Prime Minister's Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan, volunteers of NSS Hans Raj went on a drive to ensure proper toilet facilities in schools. As a part of this drive, volunteers of the Environment and Disaster management wing paid a visit to a girls' school in Malkagunj, New Delhi. We found that in all there were 4 toilets blocks and 28 toilet seats in the school. Also, there was only one washroom. We have informed the school authorities of the inadequacy in facilities and we have been promised that necessary steps would be taken to alleviate the problem
RANGOLI MAKING COMPETITION
(27th October, 2016)
Celebrating the auspiciousness and the beauty of colours, NSS Hans Raj organised a Rangoli Making Competition on 27 October at the Amphitheatre. The event saw active participation from several enthusiastic students. The participants were given 2 hours to prepare the Rangoli, selecting one theme from 'Unity in Diversity','Eco-friendly Diwali','An ode to the Indian Army' Given the quality of the Rangolis on display, it can be said with a certain degree of accuracy that the judges had a tough time. Nevertheless, prizes were awarded to the top three participants. We congratulate the winners
DONATION DRIVE
(26th October, 2016)
On 26 October 2016, the Rural Development wing of NSS Hans Raj, consisting of a huge team of volunteers, went on a donation drive to Yamuna Nagar, Kashmere Gate. To spread joy on the occasion of Diwali, our volunteers donated clothes, shoes and many more items to the underprivileged people living in that area. The team's efforts brought a smile on everyone's face. We believe that Diwali should be celebrated not by bursting firecrackers, which not only harm the environment but also adversely affect our health, but by making people around us happy. So in a way, mission accomplished
BLOOD DONATION CAMP
(25th October, 2016)
In collaboration with BloodConnect, a youth run NGO and RML Hospital, we organised a Blood Donation Camp in the college on 25th October from 10am- 3pm. The camp saw more than 100 registrations. The doctors made sure that the weight and haemoglobin level of the donors were within the normal range. There was an "I Donated Blood" banner where the students penned down their first thoughts after donating. Also, there was a desk set up by BloodConnect at which they introduced their organisation and their 24x7 helpline to the donors. We thank all the donors who pledged to safeguard the lives of several others.
SIGN LANGUAGE-ATULYAKALA
(25th October, 2016)
Inter alia, we, at NSS Hans Raj, strive to present students with an opportunity to lend a helping hand to society. Keeping that in mind, a sign language workshop was organised in collaboration with Atulyakala - India's first Deaf lifestyle brand, on 25th October at the Amphitheatre in college. The workshop, which aimed at apprising the students of the need to interact and communicate with the differently abled, also managed to develop a sense of empathy in our volunteers for these individuals.
DIWALI MELA
(21st October, 2016)
The Diwali Mela organised by NSS Hans Raj on 21st October, 2016, attracted a huge crowd from across the university. With a lot to buy, try and indulge in, the Mela was a much engaging affair. The decor and the hangings set the right mood and the strikingly beautiful paintings, handicrafts and palatable culinary extravaganza brought to the people an element of amazement and no doubt, loads of fun. To add but more fun to the event, desks were put up where people enjoyed several games and contests. The Jio Sims' stall turned out be one of the biggest attractions given the crowd it witnessed. In a nutshell, it can be said that the fair was indeed, an enticing event to visit for every person who did. It is also remarkable, how the college has espoused the very idea of a fair to raise funds for charity and also provide a recess to the students and teachers alike.
CLEANLINESS DRIVE AT INDIA GATE
(18th October, 2016)
The environment wing of NSS Hansraj organized a cleanliness drive on 18th October at India Gate. The drive got immense support from students all across the college. It was ensured by the volunteers that the surroundings were cleaner and better. The drive provided a wonderful opportunity for people's participation and proved to be an avenue to raise awareness on the importance of cleanliness. Our "affluent" society is also the "effluent" society, so, all of us need to make sure that cleanliness is omnipresent, it being the essence of a civilised society.
AWARENESS DRIVE ON CLEANLINESS
(18th October, 2016)
As a part of prime minister's swatch Bharat abhiyaan , NSS hansraj on 18th October, 2016, organised an awareness drive on cleanliness and sanitation in the college . After that , we asked the volunteers of the Environment and Disaster management wing to spread this message and tell their family, friends and neighbours about the importance of sanitation and clean surroundings . As a part of it ,some of the volunteers along with the parents and friends cleaned the surroundings also. We had asked them to take pictures while telling their friends , family or neighbours . The event turned out to be a great success as the volunteers participated enthusiastically.
MASS PLEDGE AT INDIA GATE
(11th October, 2016)
On 11 October 2016, a mass pledge was taken by the volunteers of NSS Hans Raj, at India Gate, to keep the nation clean. The volunteers pledged that they would remain committed to cleanliness. They would initiate the quest for cleanliness themselves and would ensure the propagation of the message of the Swachh Bharat Mission to their families and to their workplaces. We, at NSS, firmly believe that each step towards cleanliness will help in our society's overall development.
JOY OF GIVING WEEK
(3rd-8th October, 2016)
Inspired by our Prime Minister Shri.Narendra Modi's Mann ki Baat, NSS Hans Raj celebrated the Joy of Giving Week from 3rd October to 8th October 2016. We organised numerous activities under the purview of the same. On 3rd October, stray animals, including dogs and cows near the campus were fed with milk and bread, inter alia. We distributed 'Thank you' notes among non-teaching staff on 5th October, appreciating their hard work. Our volunteers visited 'Kilkari', an orphanage for girls and took along with them several treats for the little girls. On 7th October, stationery items and notebooks were distributed among students of NSS Padhaku. Also, we had collected clothes, shoes and other items of value between 3-5 October. The same were donated among rickshaw pullers in Kamla Nagar on 7th October. In a nutshell, the week was an exemplary display of community service.
PADHAKU MOVIE SCREENING
(6th October, 2016)
We organized a special screening of the Jungle Book for children associated with us through NSS Padhaku on 6 October. The reason we decided to screen the movie was because we not only aim to educate these children but also to work towards their all round development. The movie, besides being a fun experience, also taught them some important lessons of life like helping others, getting over one's fears and making rational decisions
VOTER ID CAMP
(6th October, 2016)
NSS Hans Raj, on behalf of the Electoral Commission, set up a voter registration desk in the college campus on 6th October. It's main purpose was to encourage all students above 18 to get their voter ID cards made without any hassle so that they can act as an agent of change in the society. This initiative saw a great response as lots of students showed up with the necessary documents and filled the voter ID forms.
CLEANLINESS DRIVE IN COLLEGE
(24th September, 2016)
A cleanliness drive was organised in the college campus on 24th September 2016, on the occasion of NSS Day. Volunteers of NSS Hans Raj were vigilant in the whole drive taking care that not a nook was left untidy. It would not at all be wrong to say that by undertaking such activities, we instill the very essence of social service in our volunteers. This cleanliness drive is yet another such step showcasing the role NSS plays in social welfare.
NSS DAY CELEBRATIONS
(23rd September, 2016)
On the occasion of NSS Day, a major rally against drug addiction was organised by NSS Hans Raj on 23rd September. The rally started near the canteen area and covered the entire campus. Students sported placards displaying messages aimed at creating awareness on the disastrous effects of intoxication from drugs on one's health and on the economy. A slogan writing competition was also organised on drug addiction. Also, an eye checkup camp was set up in collaboration with Titan Eye+ for teachers, non-teaching staff and the underprivileged children associated with us through NSS Padhaku. A total of 80 people got their eyes checked out of which 42 were Padhaku kids. Therefore, it can be said with a great deal of certainty that the celebrations of NSS Day in Hans Raj College was testimony to what NSS stood for.
VISIT TO OLD AGE HOME
(22nd September, 2016)
On 22nd Sept. 2016, volunteers of the Rural Development wing of NSS Hansraj paid a visit to 'Home for the Aged' - an old age home located in Chattarpur. The volunteers gave the residents a nice surprise by gifting them eatables and various clothing items. The residents enjoyed the company of youngsters and started reminiscing about their past. The interactive session was knowledgeable for the volunteers as the seniors imparted their wisdom. Towards the end, the session turned into a meaningful experience for each and every person involved. Our parents and elders spend their lifetime trying to make our lives better and in the end all they expect from us is a little love and time. If we can't do that for our parents, how can we expect the future generations to do the same for us?
SWACHH BHARAT FORTNIGHT
(1st-15th September, 2016)
NSS Hans Raj organised a Swachh Bharat Fortnight between September 1 and September 15, as per the HRD Ministry's Swachhta Calendar 2016-17. A cleanliness drive, conducted in and outside the canteen area, a tree plantation drive by the environment wing, and an awareness rally highlighting the importance of cleanliness, were organised in the campus. A pledge was taken by the teachers on teachers' day to keep the nation clean. A paper collection drive was also held, the proceeds of which shall be used for buying stationary items for the students under NSS Padhaku. Saturday, September 10 was chosen as the fortnight's 'Swachh Day', when teachers and non-collegiate students led a cleanliness drive. Also, NSS volunteers, our Principal Dr. Rama, and our convenor Dr. Baljeet Kaur, met the swachhta karamcharis to divide the college space among them. In a nutshell, the Swachh Bharat fortnight witnessed many events in the college which propagated the convivial essence of cleanliness and hygiene. The fortnight managed to unite both students and teachers with a sense of pride for our country.
DUSTBINS PLACED IN COLLEGE
(16th September, 2016)
On 16th September 2016, our volunteers placed dustbins all around the college campus. Using dustbins is an effective way of disposing trash and keeping our environment clean and thus spreading awareness regarding the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. It was an inspiring effort which proved that the secret of getting ahead is getting started. This initiative saw active student participation. We believe that the combined efforts of all the students will result in not only a cleaner college but will also inspire a cleaner environment. We urge students to use these dustbins to dispose their trash.
PLEDGE TAKING CEREMONY
(5th September, 2016)
The pledge taking ceremony was the highlight of the Teacher's Day celebrations on 5th Sept' 2016. Although the oath taking( both in hindi and english) was a few minutes event but the fervour it instilled in the teachers and the students is worth mentioning. The principal of Hansraj College, an extremely enthusiastic personality, was overwhelmed by this necessary step towards saving the environment and initiated the oath taking ceremony. The allegiance one swears to bear for one's country in everything is dwarfed by the promise of keeping one's country clean and unpolluted. Also, a list of guidelines has been handed over to the teachers to spare a few minutes of their lecture time in spreading awareness about cleanliness, sanitation and hygiene. The ongoing Swachch Bharat fortnight is not just shoving the idea in one's mind, of keeping one's surroundings clean but is helping to understand the importance of cleanliness; for cleanliness is next to Godliness.
PAPER COLLECTION DRIVE
(6th-7th September, 2016)
The paper collection drive, organised on the 6th and the 7th of September 2016, was to collect the spare notebooks and sheets which are discarded unused, adding to the municipal waste, rarely getting recycled. The collected notebooks have been distributed to the children taught under NSS Padhaku. The drop boxes for the same were placed in and around the canteen area and the computer science department. The used notebooks and the paper received would be sent for recycling and the proceeds shall be donated to needy children.
NUTRITION WEEK
(1st-6th September, 2016)
In times when India is reported to have a significantly high growth rate in the world, many people die of poverty and malnutrition. With the number of vagrants surging, the pallid state of the country is reflected in the ever increasing cases of malnutrition. Padhaku, NSS Hansraj, organised a camp on 1st September 2016, to calculate the BMI (Body Mass Index) of the children, taught under the Padhaku concept, only to find out that 83 out of 115 children were malnourished. The progress which we expect to make as a nation would not be possible unless malnutrition is uprooted from the society which poses an existential threat to many. Keeping in mind that the lines of malnutrition and digression of any economy abutt, NSS Hansraj organised a distribution drive where the nearby shanties, floating around the university area, housing many malnourished children were given a banana each, to promote intolerance against the unapprised levels of malnutrition. The children who are taught by NSS volunteers were given bananas too. The drive and the efforts put in by the NSS volunteers pumped the hatred against malnutrition in the veins of the society. But to keep the palpitations on, we need to be consistent in the fight against the evil- Malnutrition.
SEMINAR ON STRESS MANAGAMENT
(2th September, 2016)
In collaboration with Cipla Ltd, our Health wing organised a seminar on September 2, on the effective management of hypertension and stress during examinations. Dr. Atmesh Kumar was the chief speaker in the seminar and spoke to the audience about the ill effects of stress and hypertension on one's health. The seminar was attended by many professional doctors of St. Stephens' Hospital. The talk, informative as it was, had day to day applications on how to manage stress. Not only did students benefit from the talk, but also the teachers, who are entrusted with the responsibility of building the future of the nation.
EYE CHECK UP
(29th August, 2016)
The Health wing organised a free eye-check up in collaboration with Titan Eye+ in the college premises on 29 August 2016. The event was open for all. It started off at 12 pm in the college's new Health Centre where 220 check ups were successfully done. Students, teachers and non-teaching staff alike participated in this initiative. The high turnout made the event a successful one. Also during an eye exam, the eye doctor not only determines your prescription for spectacles but he or she also checks your eyes for common eye diseases and evaluates your eyes as an indicator of your overall health. Hence, this was one step towards the achievement of the objective of the Health wing to spread awareness on various aspects of health
PADHAKU VISIT TO ZOOLOGY MUSEUM
(27th August, 2016)
On 27 August 2016, volunteers of Padhaku arranged an educational trip for around thirty Class 9 students to the Zoology museum in Hansraj College. This visit supplemented what they had been learning in the classrooms as they gained new insight to the study of fauna. We would like to thank Dr. Jaya Malhotra for supervising the session. Apart from explaining the concept of animal diversity, she also emphasised the importance of science to the children. We would also like to thank Dr. Lokesh Chandra Mishra and all the non-teaching staff at the museum for their help and support. Thus, in a nutshell, the children at Padhaku were provided with an opportunity to expand their horizons beyond the conventional textbooks.
AWARENESS SESSION IN CHANDRAWAL
(26th August, 2016)
Mahatma Gandhi stressed that sanitation is more important than political independence. Keeping that in mind, the Rural Development wing of NSS Hans Raj held an awareness session in Chandrawal to educate the locals about the importance of keeping their surroundings clean. Our volunteers apprised them of the health and environment ill-effects that may arise due to unclean and unhygienic surroundings. The locals were also educated about what can be done on their level to maintain a healthy level of sanitation. In a nutshell, the awareness session turned out to be an enlightening experience for our new volunteers as they got a first-hand experience of our nation's rural developmental challenges.
AZAADI 70 - FREEDOM FORTNIGHT
(9-23rd August, 2016)
In pursuit of a directive sent by the Ministry of HRD, NSS Hans Raj celebrated the 'Freedom Fortnight' by conducting a series of activities in Hans Raj College, from 9th August to 23rd August. Inter alia, an essay writing and poem writing competition, a slogan writing competition and a painting competition were held for the students of the college. In addition, the volunteers of the Environment and Disaster Management wing undertook a mass tree plantation in the campus. This Independence Festival came to an end on 23rd August with a mass recital of the National Anthem at 11 am in the college premises. In a nutshell, the event succeeded in instilling patriotism in the students of Hans Raj College.
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
(12th August, 2016)
NSS Hans Raj celebrated 69 years of our country's independence on 12th August 2016. The event started off with a performance by our college's Music Society Swaranjali. The Chief Guest for the programme were Mr. A.K. Sharma, IG, Communication and Information Technology and Mr. Prabhir Rajan an alumnus of Hans Raj College. Full of patriotism, the Chief Guest hoisted the national flag along with our Principal, Dr. Rama and our special guests, Prachi Tehlan, Vishal Shrivastav and Manjot Singh. The spirit of the event was such that it shall be shall be remembered fondly by the attendees for several weeks to come.
PRESIDENT'S WEBCAST
(10th August, 2016)
On the 10th of August 2016, the Honourable President of India, Dr. Pranab Mukherjee addressed students and the members of faculty in institutes of higher learning and probationary officers at civil service academies through a webcast on the importance of student-led innovation. The same was broadcast in Hans Raj College, an initiative taken by NSS Hans Raj. Representatives from various educational institutions such as NIT Durgapur, IIT Bombay and NIFTEM Sonipat, among others, gave their opinion on how properly channelised innovation can bring prosperity to the nation. In a nutshell, the webcast inspired the students of Hans Raj College and motivated them to be a part of the student-led innovation that our President spoke about.
PADHAKU FIRST DAY
(9th August, 2016)
Teaching is the greatest way one can serve society as teaching is the profession that creates all other professions. In pursuit of that objective, Padhaku Hansraj college, a wing of NSS Hans Raj, resumed its session for 2016-17. The first day was less of an academic session but more of a getting-to-know session between the children and our new volunteers. We at NSS Hans Raj wish our Padhaku wing all the very best in their endeavours.
myGOV TOWN HALL
(6th August, 2016)
On 6th August 2016, myGov, the citizen engagement platform of the Government of India, organised a town hall event at the Indira Gandhi Stadium Complex. This event commemorated two years of its launching. The day began early with IT and law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad inaugurating the six-hour event. The main attraction of the event was the address of Shri. Narendra Modi. Addressing a crowd of nearly 2000, he stressed on the need for providing better grievance redressal system. He also spoke of the importance of social media and youth in effective governance. Attended by 15 members of NSS Hans Raj, the one-of-its-kind event proved to be an enlightening experience and provided all attendees with insights into the benefits derived from participative governance.
ORIENTATION PROGRAMME
(3rd August, 2016)
On 3 August 2016, NSS Hans Raj conducted its annual orientation programme to introduce the students of the new batch to NSS and its different wings. With the turnout well exceeding the capacity of the college auditorium, it can be said with a degree of certainty that students of the college were interested to know more about and to register as volunteers for NSS Hans Raj. The orientation commenced with a motivating speech by our Principal, Dr. Rama. The heads of different wings then gave the students a brief introduction of their respective wings. Our convenor, Dr.Baljeet Kaur, brought the event to a close with a vote of thanks to all attendees. Summing up, given the turnout and given the zest shown by the attendees of the orientation, we are pretty sure that the future of NSS Hans Raj is in extremely safe hands.
INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY CELEBRATIONS
(21st June, 2016)
NSS Hans Raj celebrated the 2nd International Yoga Day on the 21st of June 2016 in collaboration with Aarogya Yoga Kendra. Attended by approximately 150 people, the event commenced with an interactive Yoga session. In this session, students and faculty members alike participated. Our Principal, Dr. Rama also participated actively in the Yoga session. After the conclusion of the Yoga session, attendees proceeded for a short movie screening on Yoga and its various asanas. A drawing competition was then held for the students of Hans Raj College. The theme for the competition was Yoga. Prizes were awarded to those who were adjudged as first, second and third in the event. In a nutshell, the event took a step in helping the attendees to take a step towards a perfectly balanced relationship between one's mind and body that Yoga strives to attain.