East Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day Parade Camp 2026 commences at KIIT-DU

Bhubaneswar, November 13: The East Zone NSS Pre-Republic Day (Pre-RD) Parade Camp 2026 commenced at KIIT Deemed to be University (KIIT-DU), Bhubaneswar, on Friday. The ten-day camp, scheduled from November 13 to 22, is being organised by the Regional Directorate of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the KIIT NSS Bureau, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

Around 200 NSS volunteers from 10 states of the East Zone, including Odisha, West Bengal, Manipur and Meghalaya, are participating in the camp. The inaugural ceremony was attended by volunteers and dignitaries from KIIT-DU and the NSS. Dr. Prabhat Kumar Rout, Programme Coordinator, KIIT NSS Bureau, delivered the welcome address.

Among those present were Prof. (Dr.) Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Pro Vice Chancellor (Administration)-cum-Registrar, KIIT-DU; Prof. (Dr.) Debashaish Bandhyopadhyay, Pro Vice Chancellor, KIIT-DU; and Ajit Kumar Kushwaha, Regional Director, NSS.

Welcoming the participants, the dignitaries extended their best wishes and described the camp as one of the best platforms for volunteers, expressing confidence that the experience could bring a positive transformation in their lives.

The participants include 52 volunteers from Odisha, 38 from Assam and 14 from Meghalaya. During the camp, volunteers will undergo rigorous training to develop discipline, leadership, physical fitness and a spirit of national service. The programme aims to identify and prepare talented volunteers for the subsequent stages of the Republic Day Parade selection process.

The camp will feature intensive training sessions, marching and drill exercises, physical conditioning and other preparatory activities. It will also provide an opportunity for cultural exchange, interaction and national integration among volunteers from different states.

The dignitaries emphasised the importance of youth participation, discipline, leadership and community service in nation-building. Dr. Smruti Ranjan Das, NSS Liaison Officer, KIIT-DU, delivered the vote of thanks.