SAMBA, Aug 7: The NSS unit “Maitri” of Sh. Pt. Prem Nath Dogra GDC Samba conducted a comprehensive community awareness session under the ‘Swachhata Pakhwada’ (Cleanliness Fortnight) campaign as a part of activities meant to commemorate the 80th Independence Day.
The entire programme was conducted under the supervision of the worthy Principal, GDC Samba, Professor (Dr.) Nirlape Kaur.
National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of GDC Samba visited the local slum settlements in Samba. The objective of this visit was to raise awareness among the slum dwellers about the role of education, cleanliness, personal hygiene, and the importance of conserving water sources. Additionally, they were informed about the precautions to be taken during the monsoon season and simple methods like boiling and filtering to make water safe for drinking.
About 40 volunteers participated in this program and raised awareness among about 35–40 residents of the slum settlements located along the banks of the Basantar River near NH-44.
Programme Officer Professor Babita Kumari organised the programme. During the event, the importance of cleanliness and conserving water resources was explained to the slum dwellers. Volunteers encouraged the slum dwellers to adopt and cultivate healthy habits. Volunteers sensitised and interacted with people in slum areas, as well as their children.
They emphasised the role of education in improving health and financial conditions. They motivated the parents to send their children to school and created awareness about the Mid- day Meal Scheme. They were urged not to deprive their children of the right to education. Parents and children were motivated to get them enrolled in school.
The active participation of volunteers and their NSS Program Officer, Babita Kumari, also educated the residents on health, hygiene and the vital role of education as the primary tool to break the cycle of poverty. The active participation of volunteers shows the true spirit of NSS: NOT ME BUT YOU.