Tamil Nadu - Tiruchi

University NSS volunteer strength set to cross 30,000

TIRUCHI: The number of NSS volunteers in the jurisdiction of Bharathidasan University is poised to exceed 30,000 this year.

The University already stands first among territorial universities in the entire State by having the highest number of NSS volunteers. It is also the only university in the State with jurisdiction over the highest number of eight districts: Tiruchi, Thanjavur, Pudukottai, Karur, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam. Numerous colleges in these districts have a maximum of five units each, with 100 volunteers in each unit. This year, the university has processed applications from several colleges for starting 45 units and government sanction for at least 30 units is expected, according to NSS Coordinator of Bharathidasan University K. Kanagaraju. The applicants include 10 newly started arts and science colleges and one unit will be sanctioned for each. Twenty four new units were sanctioned last year.

The NSS activities are bound to receive a thrust under the choice-based credit system wherein obtaining one credit under Part V is mandatory. The activities under the NSS pertain to personality development and community service.

Under the latter activity, volunteers were instrumental in securing the Central Government’s Nirmal Grama Puraskar for 24 villages in the central districts last year. Of them, the three villages in Tiruchi district: Puthanampatti, Kattukulam and Periyanayagachathiram, owe their awards to the community service rendered by volunteers of Bishop Heber College, said Dr. Kanagaraju.

NSS volunteers were also in the forefront in completing the construction works undertaken non-government organisations at Poompuhar to rehabilitate residents affected by tsunami. And the teaching service that the volunteers have been providing at 35 special schools meant for child labourers in Tiruchi district is well received.

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