A National Service Scheme (NSS) Mega Camp was organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Govt. of India in collaboration with Dibrugarh University and Majuli College, one of the affiliated colleges of Dibrugarh University, Assam from 19 January 2015 to 30 January 2015. More than 350 NSS volunteers and 35 programme officers representing 27 States including Union Territories of India participated in the National Level Camp.
‘The younger generation is the future hope of India’ said the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, while inaugurating the Mega Camp at Kamalabari, Majuli. The Minister said that the NSS was a right platform for the youth to be molded as socially responsible citizens. Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor, Dibrugarh University, Prof. Alok Kr. Buragohain urged the NSS volunteers to use their time and energy for creating a vibrant India by removing social, economic and regional barriers. He stressed that perseverance, motivation and effort of the youth were significant for the making of a prosperous nation. Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, MP, Jorhat also inspired the students to become responsible citizens which was vital for India to become a vibrant nation. The welcome address was delivered by the principal, Majuli College, Dr. Sashikanth Saikia. Dr G.K. Tutuja, NSS Progamme Advisor Govt. of India, Commisioner Upper Assam, Shri Sunil Kr. Basumatary, Youth Officer and Head, NSS Regional Centre, Guwahati, Dy. Commissioner, Jorhat also addressed the NSS volunteers. Dr. David Kardong, NSS Programme Coordinator, Dibrugarh University delivered the vote of thanks.
During the first 8 days, as part of its academic sessions, eminent resource persons delivered lectures and interacted with the volunteers on various national and international issues, including political, social, economic and educational problems that India is facing today. During the Mega Camp, the volunteers enjoyed the rich and vibrant Vaishnavite Cultural Heritage by visiting holy ‘Sattras’, their prayer halls and museums during their educational and cultural trips. They also closely observed the unique lifestyle of the Mishing tribe and Deori tribe at Jengraimukh and Deoui villages. Every evening the volunteers enthusiastically exhibited their unique cultures by depicting their regional social and religious life through songs, skits and dances.
From 27 January 2015 till 30 of January the venue of the NSS Mega Camp was shifted to the campus of Dibrugarh University. On 28 January 2015 the participants visited the industrial township of Digboi which was followed by a cultural programme in the evening in the Rangghar Auditorium, Dibrugarh University.
The valedictory session was held on the 29th of January 2015 in Dibrugarh University. The Chief Guest for the event Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, MP, Jorhat, encouraged the students to harness the opportunities provided by the NSS as it is an excellent platform for them to develop and hone their leadership qualities. The Vice-Chancellor of Dibrugarh University spoke inspiringly to the young volunteers about the need to strive towards dedicated social service programs which was of utmost importance for the future of the nation. Several NSS volunteers took the opportunity to state that the Mega Camp had provided them with many meaningful experiences and they also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for their warm hospitality. The evening was followed by cultural programs performed by the participants.