The Secretary of SDM Educational Institutions, D. Harshendra Kumar, emphasized that a socially engaged service mindset makes students’ educational experiences more meaningful. He spoke at the ‘Golden Assembly’ event organized in celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the National Service Scheme (NSS) at SDM College’s Indraprastha Hall.
Chief guest Dr. Pratap Lingayya, State Programme Officer of the NSS under the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, introduced the unique social perspectives of the NSS program. The event also honored previous NSS officers, including Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde and Dr. B.P. Sampath Kumar, among others, recognizing their contributions over the years. Special recognition was given to senior volunteers for their outstanding achievements, and a commemorative booklet titled Seva Path was released. NSS officers Dr. Mahesh Kumar Shetty welcomed the gathering, while Prof. Deepa R.P. delivered the vote of thanks. Faculty member Deekshit Rai and student Sinchana Kalluraya hosted the program.
In his address, Principal Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde highlighted the NSS’s pivotal role in fostering individual qualitative change as a means to realize the concept of an improved society. He noted that NSS contributions play a decisive role in empowering communities. Ravi Katapadi from Udupi and Lakshmi Mohan, coordinator of the Baduku Kattona Banni team from Ujire, were honored with the Golden Service Gem award for their dedication to social service.