National Service Scheme (NSS)
National Service Scheme (NSS) is a regular social welfare activity under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. The main objective of the NSS is to impart social awareness among students while studying in educational institutions. It provides an opportunity for students to engage in various social welfare programmes, engage in community services, and develop democratic leadership quality.
NSS at P. R. Thakur Government College:
P. R. Thakur Govt. College, under West Bengal State University started its journey on the 3rd of August, 2013. The National Service Scheme (NSS) sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has been in operation in the College from 20th July, 2016. Around 100 students have enrolled under NSS. We hope we will able to fulfil the objective of NSS and make constructive contributions for the welfare of society.
National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit
| Name and designation | Nominated as |
|---|---|
|
Apala Chatterjee, Librarian (W.B.E.S) |
Programme Officer |
|
Suman Sadhukhan, Assistant Professor of Physics |
Member |
|
Anisha Sen, Assistant Professor of Sociology |
Member |
|
Mahua Patra, Assistant Professor of Sociology |
Member |
|
Muzaffar Sarkar Raju, Assistant Professor of Mathematics |
Member |
|
Saonli Patra, Assistant Professor of Geography |
Member |
|
Sucheta Mitra, Assistant Professor of Philosophy |
Member |
NSS Recent Programs, 2024-25
World Environment Day Celebration
Date: 05.06.2025
‘World Environment Day Celebration’ Programme was organised by NSS Unit of PRTGC on 5th June, 2025. Our NSS volunteers have actively participated in planting trees, cleaning public spaces, and raising awareness about plastic reduction, all contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
NSS Special Camp, 2024-25
Date: 21st April to 27th April, 2025
Introduction
The National Service Scheme (NSS) Special Camp for 2024-25 was organized by P. R. Thakur Government College from 21st April 2025 to 27th April 2025 in the adopted village of Pancila. This week-long camp, designed to instill social responsibility and service among students, focused on community development, health awareness, and environmental conservation. Under the guidance of the Programme Officer Mrs. Apala Chatterjee and the Principal Dr. Swapan Sarkar, the camp was planned and executed with precision, ensuring impactful outcomes. The planning and organizational duties were spearheaded by Mrs. Sucheta Mitra, Mrs. Anisha Sen, Ms. Saonli Patra and Dr. Muzaffar Sarkar Raju who coordinated the diverse activities and resource allocation.
Objectives of the Camp
1. Engage NSS Volunteers in activities promoting community welfare.
2. Conduct surveys to identify and address the needs of the adopted village.
3. Organize awareness campaigns on pressing social and environmental issues.
4. Provide hands-on training in community assistance and healthcare safety.
5. Foster teamwork, leadership, and civic responsibility among the students.
Programme Schedule and Activities
Day 1: 21st April, 2025 (Monday)
Inauguration and Initial Activities
- The camp began with an inauguration ceremony, attended by faculty, NSS volunteers and local villagers. The opening speech emphasized the importance of community service.
- Tree Plantation Activities: NSS volunteers and respected faculty members actively took part in the tree plantation program. NSS volunteers planted 25 native saplings (neem, fruit trees) around the campus and in the adopted village, with each volunteer pledging to care for their sapling.
- Adopted Village (Pancila): Collaborating with the village panchayat, 10 applauded the initiative, stating, “These trees will benefit future generations and strengthen our bond with the college.”
- Tree Plantation Awareness Rally
A vibrant rally marched through the village, featuring:
Slogans: Plant Trees, Save Earth! and “One Tree, One Life.”
- Community Engagement: Volunteers interacted with villagers, stressing deforestation risks and climate change. The rally concluded at the village square, where students performed a street play on ecological balance.
Snake Bite Awareness
Dr. Utpal Singha Roy, Asst. Professor of Zoology Department, delivered an impactful session in the college ground:
Key Insights:
- Myths vs. facts (e.g., “Not all snakes are venomous”).
- First-aid tips: Immobilize the limb, avoid traditional remedies.
- Emergency protocol: Contact local health centers immediately.
- Interactive Demo: A mock rescue operation using a dummy snake drew enthusiastic participation. Volunteers learned about the primary preventive measures of snake bite.
Conclusion
Day-1 successfully blended environmental stewardship and awareness of snake bite education, fostering collaboration between the college and Village ‘Pancila’. The enthusiasm displayed sets a positive tone for the remaining camp days, reinforcing the NSS’s commitment to societal well-being.
Day 2: 22nd April, 2025 (Tuesday)
PPT Presentation on Water Sampling Analysis; Water collected from the adopted village :
Presenter: Dr. Rini Roy, Head of Microbiology Department
A detailed presentation showcased findings from water samples collected earlier from Village ‘Pancila’:
Key Parameters Tested: pH, turbidity, nitrate levels, bacterial contamination (E. coli), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS).
Findings:
- Contamination: 60% of samples showed bacterial contamination due to improper sewage management.
- High Nitrates: 30% of wells exceeded permissible nitrate limits (linked to agricultural runoff).
- TDS Alert: Groundwater in 2 hamlets had TDS levels above 900 mg/L, indicating salinity issues.
Recommendations:
- Promote low-cost bio-sand filters.
- Collaborate with the panchayat for periodic water testing.
- Conduct workshops on safe water practices.
- Audience Engagement: Villagers and volunteers participated in a Q&A session, addressing concerns about waterborne diseases.
Visit to the adopted village & NSS trained Volunteers’ demonstration on ‘Snake Bite’ in the adopted village :
NSS Volunteers demonstrated snake bite awareness to the village people on the adopted village.
- Highlights:
1. Field Demonstration:
First Aid Steps: Immobilizing the limb, avoiding tourniquets, and transporting patients safely.
Myth-Busting: Clarified misconceptions (e.g., “sucking out venom” is harmful).
2. Village Interaction:
Interactive Session: Villagers shared experiences, and NSS volunteers emphasized preventive measures (e.g., using torches at night, clearing debris near homes).
Conclusion
Day-2 bridged scientific analysis with grassroots action, addressing critical issues of water safety and public health. The proactive involvement of villagers and volunteers underscored the NSS’s role in fostering community resilience. The day concluded with renewed energy to tackle sustainability challenges in the remaining camp days.
Day 3: 23rd April, 2025 (Wednesday)
Awareness Talk on ‘Food Adulteration’
- Presenter: Dr. Subhra Kanti Mandal, Assistant Professor of Chemistry Department
- A critical session on food safety was conducted in the college ground, attended by around forty NSS volunteers, students, faculty, and villagers.
Key Highlights:
Common Adulterants: Highlighted adulteration in staples like milk (urea, starch), spices (brick powder in chili), and oils (argemone seeds).
Simple Detection Methods:
- Milk Test: Rub a drop between fingers – adulterated milk feels soapy.
- Turmeric Test: Add HCl to detect chalk powder (fizz indicates contamination).
- Health Risks: Linked adulterants to diseases like liver damage, allergies, and cancer.
- Legal Awareness: Explained FSSAI standards and encouraged reporting via Food Safety Helpline (1800-112-100).
Visit to the adopted village & NSS trained volunteers’ demonstration on ‘water sampling’ collected from the adopted village
NSS Volunteers demonstrated on ‘Water sampling’ collected from the adopted village and told about its’ various aspects to the village people.
Highlights & Outcomes
-Awareness Boost: Villagers gained actionable knowledge on water safety.
– Collaboration: Strengthened ties between the college and Village Pancila; panchayat pledged to address water issues.
– Student Impact: Volunteer Riya Das noted, “Seeing villagers take notes during the demo was deeply rewarding.”
Conclusion
Day-3 focused on equipping the community with practical tools to tackle food and water safety challenges independently. The blend of scientific knowledge and hands-on training underscored NSS’s role in bridging academia and grassroots action. With rising community participation, the camp moves closer to its goal of sustainable, self-reliant villages.
Day 4: 24th April, 2025 (Thursday)
Preparation of Posters & Survey Questionnaire
Activity Lead: NSS Program Officer Mrs. Apala Chatterjee
NSS Volunteers actively prepared posters and survey questionnaire for the upcoming events.
- Survey of ‘Dengue’ Virus infection and knowledge and practices of ‘Dengue’ fever prevention in the adopted village
- Survey on Dengue Awareness & Practices
- Location: Village ‘Pancila’
- Key Findings:
1. Awareness Gaps:
– 65% knew dengue is mosquito-borne, but only 30% could identify Aedes aegypti breeding sites (stagnant water in tires, pots).
– 40% believed myths like “Dengue spreads through physical contact.”
2. Prevention Practices:
– 55% covered water storage containers; 25% used mosquito nets.
– 80% relied on municipal fogging, not personal preventive measures.
3. Community Feedback:
“We need regular clean-up drives in monsoon season.” – Village people
Action Taken: Volunteers conducted door-to-door awareness, demonstrating “10-minute weekly dry-day drills” to eliminate stagnant water.
Expert Teacher’s training to NSS Volunteers
Demonstration Highlights: NSS Volunteers learned how to prepare Questionnaire for survey regarding ‘Dengue Awareness’ Survey.
Future Plan: Regular Monthly visit to the adopted village by NSS Volunteers regarding ‘Dengue’ positive cases and awareness on it.
Conclusion
Day-4 combined research, education, and grassroots action to tackle dengue and food adulteration. By equipping villagers with practical skills and scientific knowledge, the NSS fostered a culture of prevention and self-reliance. The synergy between volunteers, faculty, and the community underscored the camp’s mission of “Service for Sustainable Change,” leaving a blueprint for healthier, informed villages.
Day 5: 25th April, 2025 (Friday)
Preparation of Posters & Survey Questionnaire
- Activity Lead: NSS Program Officer Mrs. Apala Chatterjee
NSS Volunteers actively prepared posters and survey questionnaire for the upcoming events.
College campus cleaning programme by NSS Volunteers
NSS Volunteers actively participated in the cleanliness drive and collected 30 kgs of plastic waste from gardens and parking areas for recycling.
Awareness Rally regarding cleanliness in the adopted village
NSS Volunteers organized an awareness rally regarding cleanliness in the adopted village. They marched from the College ground to the adopted village. Their slogans was “Manage Waste, Drive Away Diseases” and “Say No to Plastic, Yes to Life!”. NSS Volunteers demonstrated waste segregation using household examples. They also presented posters while marching.
Conclusion
Day-5 reinforced the ethos of Swachh Bharat through action-oriented programs, transforming both the college campus and Village Sundarpur into models of community-led cleanliness. The synergy between students, staff, and villagers highlighted the power of collective responsibility in achieving sustainable development goals. As the camp nears its conclusion, the energy and commitment displayed promise lasting change.
Day 6: 26th April, 2025 (Saturday)
Preparation of Posters
- Activity Lead: NSS Program Officer Mrs. Apala Chatterjee
NSS Volunteers actively prepared posters for the upcoming events.
- “Dengue Awareness” Programme by expert teacher in the college premises
Expert Speaker: Dr. Pabitra Saha, Head of Zoology Department
Participants: 50+ NSS Volunteers, students, faculty, and staff.
Key Highlights:
Dengue Awareness Camp: Dr. Pabitra Saha led a session on the prevention and control of Dengue, focusing on eradicating mosquito breeding grounds and adopting preventive measures.
1. Educational Talk:
– Explained dengue transmission, symptoms (high fever, severe headache), and complications (hemorrhagic fever).
– Debunked myths like “Dengue is contagious” or “Herbal oils repel mosquitoes.”
2. Preventive Measures:
– Emphasized the 4S Strategy: Search and destroy breeding sites, Secure self with repellents, Seek early diagnosis, Support fogging drives.
Visit to the adopted village & NSS trained Volunteers’ demonstration on‘Dengue Awareness’ and necessary preventions against it.
NSS Volunteers inspected households, educated families on using mosquito nets and also demonstrated safe use of temephos granules in water storage tanks.
Awareness Rally regarding “Dengue Prevention”
NSS Volunteers actively participated in the rally and marched with posters regarding Dengue prevention.
Conclusion
Day-6 amplified the fight against dengue through creativity, education, and community mobilization. By merging scientific knowledge with grassroots action, the NSS empowered villagers to transform their environment into a dengue-resistant zone. The day underscored the power of collective effort, leaving a blueprint for sustainable health interventions as the camp nears its culmination.
Day 7: 27th April, 2025 (Sunday)
Preparation of Posters
- Activity Lead: NSS Program Officer Mrs. Apala Chatterjee
NSS Volunteers actively prepared posters for the upcoming events.
Visit to the adopted village & NSS trained volunteers’ demonstration on “Food Adulteration Awareness” & necessary preventions against it.
NSS Volunteers demonstrated to the village people about some common adulterants (e.g. synthetic dyes in pulses, chalk in sugar) and DIY used in the food.
Awareness Rally regarding ‘Snake Bite’ control measures in the adopted village
NSS Volunteers organized an awareness rally regarding ‘Snake Bite’ control measures in the adopted village. They marched from the College ground to the adopted village. NSS Volunteers presented posters while marching.
Conclusion
Day-7 encapsulated the NSS’s mission to safeguard communities through proactive education and skill-building. By addressing food safety and snake bite risks in tandem, volunteers bridged gaps between scientific knowledge and rural practices, fostering self-reliance. The enthusiastic participation of villagers and vendors marked a pivotal shift from fear to preparedness, solidifying the camp’s legacy of sustainable impact.
Acknowledgments
This camp’s success is attributed to the unwavering efforts of:
• Programme Officer: Mrs. Apala Chatterjee
• Planning and Organization: Mrs. Apala Chatterjee, Mrs. Sucheta Mitra, Mrs. Anisha Sen, Mrs. Mahua Patra, Ms. Saonli Patra, Dr. Muzaffar Sarkar Raju & Prof. Suman Sadhukhan.
• Principal: Dr. Swapan Sarkar
• Survey Lead: Mrs. Sucheta Mitra & Mrs. Apala Chatterjee
• Expert Facilitators:
o Dr. Subhra Kanti Mandal (Food Adulteration Awareness)
o Dr. Pabitra Saha (Dengue Awareness)
o Dr. Utpal Singha Roy (Snake Awareness)
Conclusion
The NSS Special Camp 2024-25 not only addressed vital community issues but also nurtured a spirit of service among students. The dedication and teamwork displayed by volunteers, faculty, and experts underscored the transformative power of community engagement. The camp stands as a model of how academic institutions can contribute meaningfully to societal development.
