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The National Service Scheme (NSS) at Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible and empathetic individuals. It provides students with the opportunity to engage in meaningful community service, fostering their development as future leaders while contributing to the welfare of society. The NSS unit has become an integral part of the college’s culture, blending academic learning with real-world social engagement.
Since 2017, the NSS unit has been a dynamic force, organizing a wide range of activities that address critical societal issues. Over the years, it has carried out 149 regular activities and 42 special winter camps, totaling 184 impactful programs. These initiatives have empowered students to directly engage with underprivileged communities, offering services and support where they are needed most.
Healthcare outreach is one of the core areas of the NSS. In rural areas like Owegaon and Rave village, as well as in schools across Navi Mumbai, the NSS team regularly organizes dental check-up camps. These camps not only provide essential dental care to communities with limited access to healthcare but also raise awareness about oral hygiene and disease prevention. Alongside dental care, the team leads efforts in nutrition awareness, anti-tobacco campaigns, and oral cancer prevention, ensuring that the message of health reaches the grassroots level.
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Beyond healthcare, the NSS has a strong focus on environmental conservation. Each year, the team participates in tree plantation drives during Vanmahotsav and Independence Week, planting trees across campus and public spaces such as Kharghar Station and Karnala Fort. These efforts contribute to environmental sustainability while fostering a deeper connection to nature among students.
In line with national initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the NSS also leads cleanliness drives in public areas, enhancing local parks, stations, and historical sites, and promoting the importance of public hygiene.
The NSS team’s dedication to social and civic engagement is evident in the wide array of campaigns it organizes. Topics like women’s safety, road safety, and human rights take center stage, with events aimed at raising awareness and sparking dialogue. One notable initiative is the Run for Unity, held annually on October 31st in honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, celebrating the spirit of national unity and integration. The NSS also marks significant national days such as Republic Day, Constitution Day , and Gandhi Jayanti with debates, essay competitions, and workshops, instilling a sense of civic duty and national pride in students.
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The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought unprecedented challenges, but the NSS unit swiftly adapted to the new normal. Embracing digital platforms, volunteers launched a series of online campaigns to promote health and safety. They designed e-posters on COVID-19 awareness and proper hygiene practices, while live sessions on social media provided valuable information on safety protocols. The NSS also played an active role in promoting the Aarogya Setu App, encouraging individuals to stay informed and safe during the pandemic.
A highlight of the NSS calendar is the organization of special winter camps, immersive experiences where volunteers work closely with rural communities. Between 2017 and 2024, 42 winter camps** were conducted, each providing invaluable services such as healthcare outreach, environmental conservation efforts, and literacy programs. These camps give students a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of their efforts, working alongside local authorities, NGOs, and healthcare professionals. It’s during these camps that students not only develop leadership and teamwork skills but also gain a deeper understanding of the issues faced by marginalized communities.
The impact of the NSS unit at Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital extends far beyond the communities it serves. Through its diverse programs, the NSS enriches the lives of its student volunteers, shaping them into responsible citizens and compassionate healthcare professionals. The hands-on experiences they gain through these initiatives equip them with the skills and sensitivity needed to serve society with empathy and dedication.
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