Ri-Bhoi (Meghalaya), June 1 : The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has added
another feather to its cap as Dr Nibedita Paul, NSS Programme Coordinator, USTM, was conferred a
prestigious National-Level Award under the National Service Scheme (NSS) during the Chintan Shivir
organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM),
Shillong.
The honour was bestowed by the Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr Mansukh
Mandaviya, in the august presence of Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for
Youth Affairs & Sports, along with senior officials and distinguished dignitaries from across the
country.
Dr Nibedita Paul was recognised for her exemplary leadership, dedicated service, and impactful
contributions towards youth development, community engagement, and the promotion of the core
values of the National Service Scheme (NSS).
Her sustained efforts in mobilising students for social
service, nation-building activities, and volunteerism have brought USTM national recognition.
The two-day Chintan Shivir brought together officers and representatives from the Department of
Youth Affairs, MY Bharat, and the National Service Scheme (NSS) from across India to deliberate on
strengthening youth engagement, enhancing institutional coordination, and accelerating the vision
of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The programme featured interactive sessions, workshops, and strategic
discussions focused on youth leadership, volunteerism, community participation, and grassroots
development. It served as an important platform for sharing best practices and formulating
innovative strategies to empower young people and promote nation-building initiatives across the
country.
The award was presented by Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Union Minister for Youth Affairs &
Sports, in the esteemed presence of Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Hon’ble Minister of State for Youth
Affairs & Sports. Also present on the occasion were Dr Pallavi Jain Govil, Secretary, Department of
Youth Affairs; Shri Nitesh Kumar Mishra, Additional Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs; Dr
Priyanka Shukla, Chief Executive Officer, MY Bharat; senior officials of the Ministry of Youth Affairs
& Sports; representatives of MY Bharat and the National Service Scheme (NSS); and distinguished
delegates from across the country.
Speaking on the occasion, representatives from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports lauded the
role of NSS coordinators in shaping socially responsible youth. They acknowledged Dr Paul’s
commitment and innovative initiatives at the institutional level. The USTM fraternity has expressed
immense pride in this achievement, describing it as a moment of honour not only for the University
but also for the state and the entire region.
