JAMMU: DPS Jammu, DPS Nagbnai and DPS Katra commemorated the birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji under the aegis of Maharaja Hari Singh Social & Education Foundation with solemn and meaningful programmes celebrating his enduring legacy of education, social reform, equality, justice and service to society. A significant highlight of the occasion was the launch of two socially impactful community initiatives led by Kunwarani Dr. Ritu Singh, Founder/Pro-Vice Chairperson of DPS Jammu, DPS Nagbani and DPS Katra—a Digital Literacy Programme for girl children from underserved communities and a Free Legal Aid Initiative through Dastoor. The initiatives embody the spirit of extending computer education, empowerment, justice and service beyond the school campus and into the wider community.
The Digital Literacy Programme will provide children from underserved communities with basic digital skills, exposure to educational technology, awareness of internet safety and responsible digital behaviour. DPS teachers and students will contribute as mentors, helping extend the benefits of digital learning to children beyond the school community. The second initiative, Free Legal Aid through Dastoor, seeks to facilitate access to legal guidance for individuals who may require assistance but face difficulty in accessing appropriate support. The initiative will help connect those in need with suitable legal guidance and legal-aid mechanisms, in keeping with the ideals of justice, dignity and service. Launched on the birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, both initiatives provide a contemporary expression of the values he stood for—education, equality, social responsibility and service to society.
At DPS Jammu, The programme was graced by Shri Arun Prabhat, President, Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha, Jammu & Kashmir, as the distinguished guest. A traditional Havan was performed in which Shri Arun Prabhat participated along with the Principal, staff and students of DPS Jammu, seeking blessings for peace, harmony and the well-being of society.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Ms Ruchi Chabra, Principal, DPS Jammu, reflected upon the life and legacy of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji and observed that his legacy was not merely a chapter in history but a living set of values encompassing education, social responsibility, equality, justice, dignity and service. Emphasising the DPS Jammu motto, “Service Before Self,” the Principal called upon students to carry these values forward through their everyday actions. She also administered a Pledge of Service to the Nation, urging students and staff to use their education, knowledge and skills not merely for personal growth but also for the betterment of others.
At Delhi Public School Nagbani, mothers of underserved girl children from nearby villages of Marh Block were specially invited to the school to share with them the highlights and objectives of the community initiatives. The interaction with Mr. R K Verma, Principal and staff of the school provided an important platform for meaningful dialogue with mothers and helped sensitise them about the opportunities available through education, digital literacy, skill development and other community-oriented programmes being envisioned by the school. The initiative was aimed at encouraging parents, particularly mothers, to recognise the transformative power of education in shaping the future of their daughters. The interaction also sought to build awareness about the importance of providing girls with access to learning opportunities, digital skills and avenues for self-development.
On the occasion, a meaningful educational exposure visit was organized at DPS Katra by Ms. Simmi Sharma, Head of the school for girl students from Government High School, Panthal, Katra. The visit was designed to provide the students first hand information about the initiatives with an opportunity to experience a different educational environment, interact with students and teachers, and gain first-hand exposure to the academic and co-curricular facilities available at a modern school campus.