On 13 August 2025, the University of Delhi organised a Sensitisation Programme for NSS Volunteers and NCC Cadets under Swachhta Hi Seva – 2025 at the Council Hall, Vice Regal Lodge. The program aimed to inspire young volunteers to take an active role in promoting cleanliness, sustainability, and civic responsibility.

The session was hosted by Maj. (Prof.) Sanjay Kumar, NCC Coordinator, University of Delhi. He emphasised that eradicating substance abuse is essential for building a healthy and responsible generation, and called on students to take ownership of positive changes in their communities.

The Chief Guest, Prof. Yogesh Singh (Vice Chancellor, University of Delhi), delivered a keynote speech linking Swachhta Hi Seva to both individual commitment and systemic action. He expressed confidence that with collective effort, substantial improvements could be achieved within two years. Prof. Singh reflected on the sacred role of rivers in Indian history, contrasting their revered past with current environmental challenges. He urged students to focus on uplifting India before looking to foreign examples, stating, “Bharat ka rehne wala hu, Bharat ki baat sunata hun.” He also announced plans for university-level cleanliness and sanitation drives, including improved toilet facilities and waste management with swift follow-up after official communication.

The Vice Chancellor also announced his vision to launch a series of new cleanliness and sanitation projects across the University, with a special focus on ensuring the regular upkeep and maintenance of toilets in all campuses and hostels. He said that these initiatives would not remain on paper but would be implemented with urgency, with immediate follow-up actions taken as soon as official communications were sent to the concerned authorities. In a strong message to the student community, Prof. Singh advised against voting for candidates in student elections who had damaged university property with graffiti or littered pamphlets.

Highlighting the University’s A++ accreditation and international ranking of 328, he reminded students of their responsibility to maintain the institution’s prestige. Today’s students are tomorrow’s policymakers and change-makers, he emphasised , urging active participation in creating lasting change.

Speakers from NSS and NCC offered their perspectives on how volunteers can bring about transformation within their units and society. They stressed practical steps like waste segregation, awareness campaigns, and leading by example in cleanliness initiatives. The programme concluded with the Kul Geet of the University of Delhi, followed by the National Anthem, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

This sensitization programme successfully blended inspiration, education, and practical guidance, leaving the volunteers motivated to not only adopt cleanliness as a personal habit but to champion it as an essential civic duty across society.

Read Also: Vandalism Erupts at DUSU Office Bringing Student Politics to a Dark Turn

Image Credits: Krishna Gurjar for DU Beat

Krishna Gurjar