Kargil Vijay Diwas: A Tribute To Unsung Heroes

The National Service Scheme (NSS) Society of Loreto College, Kolkata organised a series of programmes under the “Meri Maati Mera Desh” initiative to celebrate “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” in the institution following the instructions provided by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. The event was carried out in four segments.

Felicitation

On August 3, 2023, the NSS Society observed Kargil Vijay Diwas through a special programme entitled “Maati Ka Naman, Veeron Ka Vandhan.” Colonel Ratnesh Kumar Singh, a distinguished member of the Indian Armed Forces and a Shaurya Chakra Awardee, was invited to the college and felicitated by the Principal, Sr. Dr. Christine Coutinho, and the Academic and Administrative Officer, Mrs. Sharmila Mitra Deb. Colonel Singh also shared his experiences in the Indian Army during the past 21 years and inspired the NSS volunteers by stating that even the smallest initiatives that are carried out with sincerity and integrity can be regarded as a form of service to the nation.

Panch Pran Pledge

The entire audience took the Panch Pran Pledge introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, affirming each citizen’s commitment to the country. They pledged to contribute to the development of the country and to promote its rich cultural heritage. The pledge to honour the sacrifices of the brave hearts in the Army was also taken wholeheartedly.

Sapling Planting

The third segment of the event involved the planting of a sapling to mark the importance of conserving the soil and greenery of the nation. The sapling was planted and watered by the chief guest, the Principal, and the AAO in the presence of the NSS volunteers.

The sapling planting segment was part of a larger drive conducted on July 26, 2023, when 25 NSS volunteers residing in different areas of West Bengal formed an “Amrit Vatika” by planting 75 saplings to commemorate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Each volunteer planted three indigenous saplings such as Tulsi, Ashwagandha, and Neem.

Orientation Session on the YUVA Portal

In the final segment, all the volunteers were informed about the YUVA Portal, an initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Attendees were made aware of this online platform that offers numerous certified internship opportunities and other resources to empower and engage the youth of the nation.