Unnat Bharat Team of NIT Rourkela organized a Donation and Distribution Drive.

Rourkela, November 2, 2024 – In a heartening display of community service and commitment to sustainable development, Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) NIT Rourkela, in partnership with the Abhibyakti Research and Development Foundation (ARDF), the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Campus Club, and NCC NIT Rourkela, successfully conducted a ‘Donation and Distribution Drive at Pograbahal Village, Birsa Block’. On the day of the event, volunteers assembled at Pograbahal Village, facilitating the distribution of clothing, educational materials, and essential household items. Interactive sessions were conducted to impart knowledge on the principles of SDG 12. 

This event aimed at supporting underprivileged sections of society while promoting the essence of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. SDG 12 emphasizes sustainable practices in consumption and production to ensure sustainability and long-term well-being. The event was designed to provide necessary resources to underprivileged villagers while promoting education on responsible consumption—a crucial step toward integrating sustainability into daily life.

The drive was spearheaded by faculty members including Prof. Ramakrishna Biswal (Regional Coordinator-UBA Odisha), and Prof. Ajit Behera (PI Coordinator, UBA, NIT Rourkela). The participation of 25 UBA volunteers and 54 NCC cadets showcased the spirit of unity and dedication to community welfare. 

The initiative impacted more than 130 villagers, addressing their immediate needs while sowing seeds of long-term behavioural change. Villagers expressed gratitude and curiosity about how sustainable practices could improve their quality of life. The interactive discussions provided a platform for mutual learning, bridging the gap between the academic community and local residents.

India''s commitment to the 2030 SDG Agenda has mobilized educational institutions to extend their roles beyond academic learning and into societal upliftment. This drive exemplifies such an approach, reinforcing that sustainable development is a collective endeavour that benefits from active community engagement and educational outreach.

Joining the event, Dr. Antarjeeta Nayak (Founder Director, ARDF) said “This drive was not just about distribution; it was a step towards building sustainable communities. Through education and support, we aimed to inspire a culture that values responsible consumption and community well-being.”

The Donation and Distribution Drive demonstrated that localized efforts, driven by dedicated volunteers and structured leadership, can contribute significantly to larger goals creating meaningful impact. Such initiatives highlight the crucial role of youth and academia in encouraging sustainable practices and promoting holistic development.