National Integration Camp, Panipat (Haryana)
21st - 27th October 2024
Two NSS volunteers: Shruti Jain (25170, 3rd Year, CSE Dept.) and Vandita Gaba (25188, 3rd Year, CSE Dept.) along with Dr. Anupam Dalal (NSS, PO) from Dronacharya College Of Engineering, Gurugram attended the 7-day National Integration Camp from 21st - 27th October 2024. The camp was organized and sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Govt of India, Regional Centre New Delhi in association with the State Haryana NSS Cell and Regional Directorate of NSS, GoI. The camp was held at NSS Cell of Sanatan Dharm PG College.
The camp provided a unique platform for cultural exchange and the promotion of unity among participants from across India. Sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, the camp embodied the NSS motto, "Not Me, But You," underscoring the importance of selfless service and national integration.
A total of 200 NSS volunteers from 17 states participated in the camp, each bringing a distinct cultural flavor to the gathering. As representatives of Haryana, NSS volunteers embraced the opportunity to learn, share, and celebrate diversity.
Day 1 – 21st October, 2024
The first day commenced with breakfast and registration for all the volunteers, marking the beginning of a week-long journey filled with unity and learning. A sacred Hawan ceremony was conducted to give a blessed start to the camp, setting a tone of positivity and peace. Post-lunch, volunteers enjoyed vibrant cultural dance performances that showcased the rich diversity of India, followed by a warm tea break. The day concluded with a delightful dinner, where everybody had the chance to interact with fellow volunteers from across the country.
Day 2 – 22nd October, 2024
The second day started on a refreshing note with a yoga session that energized and prepared everyone for the day ahead. After breakfast, all attended two enlightening lectures. The first focused on forensic science, providing insights into crime-solving techniques and advancements in forensic technology. The second lecture, titled "How to Lead a Happy Life," offered valuable life lessons, inspiring everyone to pursue happiness mindfully. Post-lunch, a poetry competition allowed volunteers to showcase their creative talents. The evening was enriched with mesmerizing cultural performances that highlighted the unique traditions of different states.
Day 3 – 23rd October, 2024
The third day also began with a calming yoga session. Following breakfast, all volunteers attended lectures by esteemed doctors from a leading hospital, who educated all on oncology and the importance of medical insurance. It was an eye-opening session on the value of health and preventive care. The afternoon was filled with a declamation and singing competition, encouraged volunteers to express their views and showcase their vocal talents. The day concluded with yet another captivating cultural event before dinner, celebrating the spirit of togetherness.
Day 4 – 24th October, 2024
Yoga and breakfast energized everyone for an engaging day ahead. The first lecture of the day covered cybercrime awareness, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity and safe online practices. Following this, everybody visited the Dainik Bhaskar factory, where all learned about media operations, and then Kala Aamb, the historic site of the Third Battle of Panipat. The visits were informative and allowed everyone to connect with the history and legacy of the region. The day ended with a hearty dinner and bonding with other volunteers.
Day 5 – 25th October, 2024
Fifth day also started with practicing Yoga. The day was also filled with various creative and cultural activities. Competitions such as poster-making, mehndi design, slogan writing, and rangoli-making were organized, giving everyone a chance to showcase their artistic skills. Later, everyone visited Ratnawali at Kurukshetra University, a cultural exhibition where all immersed themselves in the vibrant Haryanvi culture. The day continued with a trip to Jyotisar, the sacred site where Lord Krishna imparted the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. All witnessed a breathtaking light show that illustrated the teachings, enhanced understanding of India's spiritual heritage. The visit to Brahma Sarovar was a serene experience, followed by a delicious dinner at a nearby hotel, concluded the day.
Day 6 – 26th October, 2024
After breakfast, volunteers attended a soothing lecture by the Isha Foundation, where all learned about mindfulness and meditation techniques to foster inner peace. Post-lunch, a grand cultural event was organized, where volunteers from each state performed traditional dances and songs, sharing the unique aspects of their cultures with the rest of the group. In the evening, after dinner, all enjoyed DJ night where all danced, laughed, and celebrated the week of unity and learning.
Day 7 – 27th October, 2024
The final day began with breakfast, after which all participants received their Certificates of Participation. With heartfelt goodbyes, everybody bid farewell to new friends, carried with all a treasure trove of memories, new perspectives, and a renewed love for country’s rich diversity.
Benefit/Outcome: The participation in National Integration Camp provided learning, friendship and cultural exchanges. The camp also gave all the volunteers, the opportunity to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and celebrate the true essence of India.