Ujire – As part of the ‘Seva Sambhrama’ weekly activities of the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit at SDM College, Ujire, a one-day camp was conducted on September 24 at the Sion Ashram in Gandibagilu village to commemorate NSS Day.
The programme was inaugurated by the Ashram founder, Father Paul, who highlighted that the NSS was one of Mahatma Gandhi’s greatest visions. He urged the youth to carry forward Gandhi’s dream of Ramrajya and stressed the importance of fostering a spirit of service without any distinctions of caste or religion.
Father Paul also lauded the contributions of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, the Dharmadhikari of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala, for his lifelong dedication to social welfare and the development of Zion Ashram.
The camp was attended by Trustee Matrushi Mary U., Ashram medical officer Shivānanda Swami, NSS Programme Officer Dr. Mahesh Kumar Shetty H., Hindi lecturer Shruti Manikikar, ashram staff, residents, and NSS volunteers.
Volunteers Shilpa, Varnika, and Raksha R. Devadiga conducted the proceedings of the inaugural session.
During the concluding ceremony, Trustee Matrushi Mary U. appreciated the volunteers for spending a meaningful day at the Ashram and encouraged them to extend their service beyond the day to a national level. NSS Programme Officer Dr. Mahesh Kumar Shetty H. spoke about the life lessons learned from the Ashram residents and praised the patience and dedication of the Ashram staff in caring for them.
Hindi lecturer Shruti Manikikar, Ashram HR Ritesh D’Soza, Ashram staff, residents, and NSS volunteers were present for the closing ceremony. Volunteers Preeti and Maanya K.R. conducted the session, while Ashram medical officer Shivānanda Swami delivered the vote of thanks.
As part of the camp activities, around 16 saplings were planted within the Ashram premises, cleanliness drives were conducted, and cultural programs were presented by the volunteers and residents, making the day both productive and memorable.
