The National Service Scheme (NSS) Day 2025 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at the Auditorium of KISS Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar on 24th September 2025. The event was organized by the NSS Bureau, KISS DU, to commemorate the foundation of NSS and reaffirm its motto ‘Not Me, But You.’

The programme with the welcoming of guests and lighting of the ceremonial lamp, invoking blessings for the success of the event. This was followed by the NSS Song presented by the NSS Volunteers, which filled the atmosphere with pride and motivation.

Dr. Parikshita Khatua, Programme Coordinator, NSS Bureau, KISS-DU warmly welcomed the dignitaries, faculty members, and NSS volunteers. In his speech, he emphasized the role of NSS in shaping the character of young students and instilling in them values of service, leadership, and discipline. He highlighted the various community outreach activities conducted by NSS at KISS, including plantation drives, health camps, literacy programmes, and awareness campaigns. He urged students to continue working in line with the philosophy of the Hon’ble Founder of KIIT & KISS, who has always said that ‘Service to humanity is service to God.’

Selected NSS Volunteers shared their inspiring experiences of participating in social service activities. They expressed how being part of NSS has helped them grow as responsible citizens and given them opportunities to serve marginalized communities, particularly the tribal children and villages associated with KISS.

Dr. Amulyaratna Nanda, Assistant Professor in Odia and Former Programme Coordinator, NSS Bureau Dr. Nanda recalled his tenure as Programme Coordinator and praised the dedication of KISS volunteers in carrying forward the vision of Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Hon’ble Founder of KIIT & KISS, who has always stressed the importance of service to humanity. He motivated the students to continue this legacy of selfless service with sincerity and commitment.

Mr. Subhendu Kumar Mohanty, Additional Director, Student Affairs underlined the importance of youth participation in nation-building. He encouraged NSS volunteers to actively engage in developmental initiatives, such as digital literacy, environment protection, and community empowerment.

Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Director HRDC and Dean, School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures. Dr. Bhoi highlighted the strong connection between NSS and education for sustainable development. He shared examples of how NSS volunteers of KISS have contributed in promoting Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, blood donation, and tribal community health awareness.

Professor Kasi Nath Jena, Pro-Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU praised the volunteers for their selfless commitment. He remarked that NSS provides students with real-life learning experiences and makes them sensitive towards social issues. Professor Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU delivered the keynote address, appreciating the efforts of the NSS Bureau. He stressed that NSS is not just an extracurricular activity, but an integral part of holistic education. He expressed gratitude to Professor Achyuta Samanta, the visionary Founder, whose constant encouragement and support have enabled KISS to emerge as a model university blending education with social service.

The formal programme concluded with a patriotic song by NSS Volunteers which evoked a sense of national pride among the audience. This was followed by the Prize Distribution Ceremony, where NSS Volunteers were felicitated for their achievements in various competitions organized as part of the NSS Day celebrations.

The entire programme was smoothly moderated and anchored by two enthusiastic NSS Volunteers, Ms. Ambika Mandal and Ms. Subanti Majhi, who kept the audience engaged and ensured the flow of events.

Dr. Jhunubala Khuntia, Programme Officer, NSS Unit, School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures, delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty, and volunteers for making the event a grand success.

The celebration of NSS Day 2025 at KISS DU was a resounding success. The programme not only paid tribute to the founding ideals of NSS but also inspired the students to uphold the spirit of ‘Not Me, But You’ in their lives. The event stood as a reflection of the commitment of KISS DU, under the guidance of its Hon’ble Founder, Prof. Achyuta Samanta, to nurture socially responsible, compassionate, and service-minded citizens for the nation.