State Conclave in Nava Raipur highlights the role of young people in driving social and behavioural change
Nava Raipur, 11 March 2026: The Department of Higher Education, Government of Chhattisgarh, in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS) and UNICEF, organised a State Conclave, launched a State Monitoring Dashboard, and rolled out the “Aaj Mauka Hai” campaign under the initiative “Surakshit Para, Surakshit Laikaman” at Mahanadi Bhavan, Nava Raipur.
The event brought together senior government officials, NSS Programme Officers, youth volunteers and development partners to strengthen youth-led action for safe, healthy and supportive environments for children and adolescents.
Over the past phases, the initiative has reached more than 10 lakh families through 8,500 youth volunteers and over 5,000 community activities across districts. The initiative has shown how young people can play an important role in influencing positive practices, community participation and local problem-solving.
The conclave marked the launch of two important initiatives. The State Monitoring Dashboard will support real-time tracking, reporting and coordination of community-based activities led by NSS volunteers. The “Aaj Mauka Hai” campaign will encourage communities to take small but meaningful actions for safer and healthier neighbourhoods.
Shri Tank Ram Verma, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Government of Chhattisgarh, highlighted the role of youth volunteers in community development.
“NSS swayamsevaks play a critical role in bringing positive change in communities. The launch of this dashboard and portal will strengthen field-level coordination. This initiative marks an important step in mobilising youth and using digital tools to support community development.”
Dr. S. Bharathidasan, IAS, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of Chhattisgarh, emphasised the value of field feedback and data for programme improvement.
“The dashboard represents an innovative approach to listening to the field. It will help improve programme implementation and make interventions more responsive and effective.”
Ms. Neeta Bajpayee, State Officer, National Service Scheme, highlighted the contribution of NSS functionaries and volunteers across the state.
“This initiative reflects the strength of NSS in connecting young people with community action. With stronger monitoring, coordination and motivation, our volunteers can make an even greater contribution at grassroots level.”
Abhishek Singh, Specialist, Social and Behaviour Change, UNICEF India, underlined the importance of youth leadership in influencing behaviour and strengthening community engagement.
“Young people are powerful catalysts of social and behavioural change. When youth engage with communities, they can influence everyday practices, build trust and encourage collective action. This dashboard will help strengthen youth-led engagement across Chhattisgarh.”
Speaking on the “Aaj Mauka Hai” campaign, he added:
“This is an important moment to invest in young people. Small actions led by youth can create wider change for children, adolescents and communities.”
The conclave also recognised the contributions of NSS Programme Officers and youth volunteers who have played an important role in mobilising communities and implementing activities under the initiative.
The event concluded with an action planning session focused on further strengthening youth engagement, expanding outreach and scaling social and behaviour change efforts across the state.
What is “Surakshit Para, Surakshit Laikaman“
Surakshit Para, Surakshit Laikaman is a youth-led initiative that engages NSS volunteers to work with communities on issues affecting children and adolescents. Through community outreach, local dialogue and collective action, the initiative promotes safer, healthier and more supportive environments across Chhattisgarh.
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