Event Report
National Social Summit 2023
(March 10-12, 2023)
Organized by
National Service Scheme (NSS)
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee
Introduction
The National Social Summit 2023 is a resolution to bring people together and propose
technical answers to the country's socio-economic issues. The tagline "Breaking Conventions"
highlights the problems caused by ancient conventions and will be looking for extraordinary
ideas to spark changes in society.
The National Social Summit strives to improve the nation by identifying the issues that exist in
society and proposing practical technological and policy solutions to address them on the
ground. IIT Roorkee's National Social Summit is dedicated to creating a platform for
collaborative action to advance equity and opportunities for all people.
Team NSS IIT Roorkee held the 7th Edition of its Annual Social Festival, 'National Social
Summit 2023,' in an online mode from March 11 to March 12, 2023. The Summit's subject was
‘Embracing Inclusion,' with the goal of providing a common platform for people from all walks
of life to collaborate and discuss the possibility of working towards the betterment of society by
providing a sense of belonging and inclusion to people.
Team Description
We are a dedicated workforce of over 1000 volunteers striving selflessly for the growth of our
nation. This year, we unite the youth of the nation to be the fire that burns the foundation of
prejudices and disparity in our society.
Coordinator - Chaitanya Gupta
Email: - chaitanya_g@[Link]
Events Head - Alka Kumari
Email: - alka_k@[Link]
Relations Head - Samarth Gudwala
Email: - samarth_sg@[Link]
Sponsorship Head - Barbhaya Jwal Hetalbhai
Email: - barbhaya_jh@[Link]
Operation Head - Priyanshu Ranjan
Email: - priyanshu_r@[Link]
Creative Head - Akanksha Vijayvergiya
Email: - akanksha_v@[Link]
Design Head - Mukul Dhiman
Email: - mukul_d@[Link]
Technical Head - Manav Singh
Email: - manav_s@[Link]
Marketing & Promotions Head - Sukhadeve Janhavi Naresh
Email: - sukhadeve_jn@[Link]
Managers: 39
Volunteers: 71
The team is indebted to the Faculty Advisor of NSS, Dean of Students’ Welfare (DoSW),
Associate Dean of Students’ Welfare (ADoSW) Students’ Activities, Deputy Director & Director
IIT Roorkee for their everlasting support.
Message from the Dean of Students’ Welfare, IIT Roorkee
It is only because of the immense hard work, persistence, and
dedication of every member of the NSS IIT Roorkee that today we
behold this stage and celebrate the success of our annual flagship
event. It was a great moment to relish and celebrate the essence of
inclusion under the shelter of the National Social Summit 2023. The
heart of this social fest is the constant motivation to serve society,
challenge conventions, highlight the situation, and provide a platform
to foster discussions.
Celebrating the Institute's 175th year of establishment, Team NSS IIT Roorkee successfully
conducted year-long events. This team has forever been serving the best for our society, be it
on any grounds. Realizing the air and need for an inclusive society, this year's Summit was
based on the theme of 'Breaking Conventions.'
‘World Mental Health Week’ was celebrated with workshops & webinars given the rising
concerns in the post-pandemic world & 'International Women's Week' to celebrate
womanhood. Carrying forward one of the flagship events, ‘33rd National Road Safety Month’
was commemorated with various events to bring out feasible solutions for the unfortunate
happenings on the road. ‘Sustainability Research Projects’ were a new addition this year,
where the team also contributed towards writing research papers. The team celebrated a
week-long event under the ambit of ‘Beyond Differences’ to embrace the diversity to
reimagine an inclusive space for all individuals around, with a range of events, guest speaker
sessions, competitions and informative articles.
I congratulate the team on the success of the National Social Summit 2023. The dedication
and diligence displayed are a testimony to the most incredible heights the team has achieved.
We wish them all the luck in their future initiatives and endeavors.
Prof. Mukesh Barua
Dean of Students' Welfare, IIT Roorkee
Message from the Faculty Advisor, NSS IIT Roorkee
NSS IIT Roorkee has been making remarkable strides, showcasing their
innovation, creativity, unwavering dedication, and a visionary commitment
to making a lasting impact. They consistently uphold their motto: 'Not for
me, but the Nation.' Having closely observed their work for an extended
period, the team's persistent high spirits have brought countless smiles to
the faces of many.
This year marked my inaugural service as the Faculty Advisor for this exceptional team.
Through my engagement and experience, I've been deeply inspired and uplifted by their
dedicated service to society. They meticulously craft and execute their events to yield the best
possible outcomes. Their ideas and inventive approach to conducting events and addressing
societal issues deserve the highest accolades.
The genesis of the idea of a social festival on campus by NSS can be traced back to the year
2016 with the event 'Sankalp.' The term 'National Social Summit' was subsequently embraced.
Previous editions were organized around themes such as 'Child and Women Welfare,'
'Empowerment with Education,' 'Rebuilding Nature through Innovation,' and 'Envisioning Better
Healthcare Evolution,' drawing significant crowds and active participation from eminent
educators and policymakers. This year's theme, 'Breaking Conventions,' aimed to disrupt
established norms and create an inclusive space for all communities to coexist, allowing their
diversity to contribute to overall growth.
NSS IIT Roorkee has effectively created a unique platform for harnessing the socially inclined
youth power of the nation to brainstorm, network, and engage in discussions on pressing social
issues. I consider myself fortunate to be a part of this dynamic and outstanding team, and I
extend my best wishes to them in all their future endeavors, both in community service and their
personal careers.
Diptimayee Nayak
Faculty Advisor, NSS IIT Roorkee
National Social Summit 2023
Breaking Conventions
· Vision
The National Social Summit 2023 aspires to be a catalyst for positive change, an arena where
innovation and creativity converge to challenge the status quo. Our vision is to foster a society
where boundaries and conventions are no longer limitations but opportunities for
transformation. We aim to create an inclusive platform where diverse communities coexist,
leveraging their unique perspectives to drive societal progress. Through this event, we seek to
inspire and empower individuals to defy traditional norms, spark conversations, and ignite a
collective drive towards a more equitable, progressive, and resilient world. Together, we
envision a society that embraces change, breaks free from constraints, and shapes a future
where everyone's potential is unleashed and celebrated.
· Mission
The mission of the National Social Summit 2023 is to inspire individuals to challenge
established norms, foster innovative solutions, and champion inclusivity, driving positive
change within society. Through thought-provoking discussions, collaborative workshops, and
diverse perspectives, we aim to empower change agents who will break conventions, spark
dialogue, and pave the way for a more equitable and innovative future.
· Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony of the National Social Summit 2023, held on 10th March 2023 at the
Senate Hall, was an auspicious beginning to an event filled with enthusiasm and purpose.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Chief
Guest, Prof. KK Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, whose visionary leadership has been
instrumental in shaping the institute's success. Adding to the grandeur of the occasion, the
Guest of Honor, Prof. Manoranjan Parida, Director of CSIR, was also in attendance,
underscoring the event's significance in the academic and research community.
The Senate Hall was adorned with a sense of anticipation, with the presence of various other
prominent professors and academic figures, all of whom came to celebrate the spirit of
innovation and inclusivity. In addition, the Faculty Advisor of NSS IITR, Prof. Diptimayee
Nayak, brought her wisdom and guidance to the event, emphasizing the critical role of the
faculty in nurturing the student-driven initiatives of the National Social Summit. The opening
ceremony set the stage for a thought-provoking and transformative event that aimed to
challenge conventions and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Keynote Speakers
· Mr. Ashneer Grover
Ashneer Grover, the co-founder of BharatPe, a leading fintech company, graced the National
Social Summit 2023 with his remarkable insights and visionary perspective. As an accomplished
entrepreneur and innovator, Ashneer's address was a highlight of the event, leaving a lasting
impact on the audience.
During his speech, Ashneer shared his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he
encountered in breaking conventions and reshaping the financial technology landscape in India.
His success story resonated strongly with the theme of the summit, "Breaking Conventions," as
he shared how BharatPe challenged traditional norms in the digital payment industry.
Ashneer's talk went beyond the corporate world; he emphasized the importance of social
responsibility and the need for businesses to make a positive impact on society. He highlighted
how companies like BharatPe can play a significant role in fostering financial inclusion and
leveling the playing field for small businesses and entrepreneurs in India.
His insights and experiences provided valuable inspiration to the audience, motivating them to
think outside the box and pursue innovation, while also considering the social implications of
their endeavors. Ashneer Grover's presence at the National Social Summit 2023 exemplified the
event's commitment to promoting innovative thinking and inclusivity, leaving a lasting impression
on all in attendance.
· Mr. Amit Lodha
The National Social Summit 2023 was graced by the presence of an exceptional guest, Mr. Amit
Lodha, whose remarkable journey from an IPS officer to becoming an author and motivational
speaker served as an extraordinary source of inspiration for all in attendance.
Amit Lodha's transition from the rigorous world of law enforcement to the creative realms of
literature and motivational speaking is a testament to his unwavering determination and
dedication. His story reflects the very essence of resilience and the relentless pursuit of one's
dreams, which aligns perfectly with the summit's spirit of "Breaking Conventions."
As Mr. Lodha shared his experiences, challenges, and accomplishments, the audience was
profoundly moved by his message: never to give up on their dreams, regardless of the obstacles
they may face. His insights into the power of perseverance and the importance of thinking
beyond traditional boundaries resonated deeply with the summit's mission of fostering innovation
and inclusivity.
Amit Lodha's presence at the National Social Summit 2023 was a testament to the potential of human
potential and the endless possibilities that await when individuals dare to break conventions, redefine
their paths, and chase their dreams with unwavering resolve. His journey left an indelible mark on all
who were fortunate to hear his story.
· Rakhi Pal
The National Social Summit 2023 was honored to host a truly remarkable entrepreneur and
trailblazer, Ms. Rakhi Pal, the Founder of Eventbeep. Her presence as a special guest added a
unique dimension to the event, inspiring the audience with her entrepreneurial journey and
invaluable insights into innovation and perseverance.
Rakhi Pal's session was eagerly anticipated, and her reputation as a pioneering entrepreneur in
the world of business preceded her. As she joined us for an unforgettable experience, the
excitement in the room was palpable, and she did not disappoint.
During her engaging presentation, Rakhi Pal shared her personal entrepreneurial journey,
which resonated strongly with the audience's pursuit of innovative thinking and the theme of
"Breaking Conventions" at the summit. She illustrated how her relentless perseverance and the
willingness to challenge conventional norms led to the establishment of Eventbeep, a
pioneering name in the industry.
Rakhi Pal's speech was not just about business success; it was also about the indomitable
spirit that drives entrepreneurial ventures. Her insights left an indelible mark on the audience,
motivating them to pursue their dreams, challenge norms, and embrace innovation in their
endeavors.
· Vikas Kakwani
Vikas Kakwani, the Founder and CEO of Aas Vidyalaya, brought his unique perspective on
leadership and innovation to the National Social Summit 2023, leaving the audience thoroughly
inspired and motivated to drive positive change in the world.
The anticipation for his session was palpable, as his reputation as a visionary leader preceded
him. With a warm invitation to all attendees, Vikas Kakwani's presentation promised to be a
transformative experience, and he did not disappoint.
During his session, Vikas shared his profound insights on leadership and innovation,
emphasizing the critical role that vision and purpose play in creating lasting impact. He
underscored the need for leaders to think beyond the conventional and to constantly challenge
the status quo to bring about positive change. His experiences and anecdotes resonated
strongly with the summit's theme of "Breaking Conventions."
As the Founder and CEO of Aas Vidyalaya, an organization known for its commitment to
education and social betterment, Vikas demonstrated how innovation and inclusivity could be
harnessed to make a tangible difference in the world. His presentation left a lasting impression,
motivating the audience to think differently, lead with purpose, and strive for innovation in their
endeavors.
Vikas Kakwani's session at the National Social Summit 2023 was an unforgettable experience,
illustrating the power of visionary leadership and its ability to inspire change-makers to create a
brighter future.
Central Stage Events
· Nukkad Natak
The Nukkad Natak event at the National Social Summit 2023 offered a powerful demonstration
of street theatre's capacity to challenge societal norms and address pressing social issues in
an unconventional and impactful way. The essence of Nukkad Natak lies in its ability to
resonate with everyday language and relatable scenarios, effectively breaking free from
traditional theatrical conventions to convey compelling social and political messages.
In this competition, participants engaged the audience by embracing the common vernacular
and expressions of daily life to shed light on pertinent societal matters. By taking to the streets,
they shattered the conventional boundaries of conventional theatre, effectively creating stages
on street corners. The passionate shouts, chants, drumbeats, and catchy songs not only
reverberated through the streets but also stirred the thoughts and emotions of those who
experienced these dynamic performances.
Nukkad Natak showcased the transformative power of unconventional approaches to address
and act upon societal challenges. It encouraged the audience to think outside the box and
embrace innovative methods to confront the issues that affect our society. This event
demonstrated the potential of street theatre to engage, provoke thought, and ultimately drive
positive change.
· Debate
The Debate event at the National Social Summit 2023 provided an exceptional platform for
participants to challenge traditional viewpoints and exhibit their critical thinking and
argumentative skills. This event underlined the significance of engaging in reasoned
discourse and testing one's knowledge on contemporary issues.
Debate, as a means of fostering critical thinking, offers a unique opportunity to develop
rational and reasonable arguments in favor of one's perspective. It encourages participants to
think critically, analyze diverse viewpoints, and communicate their ideas effectively, which is a
vital skill in breaking free from conventional thinking.
The event invited attendees to join this exhilarating "battle of brains" where unconventional
perspectives and ideas could take center stage. It encouraged individuals to explore and
engage with the hottest topics, provoking thought and discourse on pressing societal matters.
Debate served as a remarkable example of how challenging conventions and engaging in
constructive discourse can lead to a deeper understanding of complex issues, stimulate
innovation, and encourage fresh approaches to societal challenges. It was a testament to the
summit's mission to promote unconventional thinking and inclusivity in addressing the world's
most significant issues.
· Policy Case
The Policy Case competition at the National Social Summit 2023 brought together students
from across the nation to engage in a high-stakes battle of research, design, and presentation
of innovative policies addressing contemporary issues. This unique two-round competition
challenged participants to think critically and analytically, pushing the boundaries of
conventional policymaking to create impactful and positive solutions for the community.
Policy Case was more than just a competition; it was a platform that encouraged
unconventional thinking and innovation in policy development. Participants were tasked with
researching and designing policies that ventured beyond the established norms, providing
creative solutions to address current societal challenges.
The event emphasized the importance of policy development as a means to drive change and
create a more inclusive society. Participants were motivated to challenge existing conventions,
think beyond traditional boundaries, and harness their critical thinking skills to serve the
community in novel and meaningful ways.
Policy Case at the National Social Summit 2023 was a testament to the summit's commitment
to fostering innovation in policy development and promoting critical, analytical, and
unconventional thinking to address the complex issues of our time. It encouraged participants
to break free from traditional policy frameworks and embrace innovative approaches to effect
positive change.
· Case Study
The Case Study event at the National Social Summit 2023 offered a platform for participants to
delve deep into complex issues, conduct in-depth research, and formulate feasible and
practical solutions. It was a test of critical thinking standards on a wide range of societal
concerns.
The essence of the Case Study was to encourage participants to address the persistent issue
of discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, social and economic backgrounds, among
others. By examining these issues closely and proposing innovative solutions, the event
perfectly aligned with this year's theme, "Breaking Conventions."
Case Study challenged attendees to think outside the box, push the boundaries of
conventional thinking, and channelize their inner thoughts and ideas toward creating a more
inclusive society. It was a reminder that innovative problem-solving, research, and critical
thinking can lead to actionable solutions that break free from traditional norms.
This event epitomized the summit's mission to foster unconventional thinking, encourage
inclusivity, and drive transformative change in society. It inspired participants to break free from
conventional problem-solving methods and engage in thought-provoking discussions to
address the most pressing issues of our time.
· Work Presentation
The Work Presentation event, aptly named "Inclusion-WP," at the National Social Summit
2023, highlighted the incredible contributions of selfless volunteers during the challenging
times of the pandemic. It served as a tribute to these unsung heroes who played a pivotal role
in lifting our great nation to its feet. In this context, the event underscored the importance of
recognizing and celebrating these contributions and brought forth a unique opportunity for new
and emerging NGOs.
"Inclusion-WP" was a two-round work presentation competition that provided a platform for
these NGOs to showcase their past works. By doing so, it not only acknowledged their
valuable efforts but also aimed to establish connections between like-minded groups and
provide them with new opportunities to further their causes.
The event celebrated inclusivity by highlighting the importance of cooperation, collaboration,
and the sharing of knowledge among NGOs. It emphasized the role of unconventional
approaches in uniting organizations to address societal challenges collectively.
This event was a testament to the summit's mission of fostering inclusivity and breaking down
conventional barriers. It encouraged attendees to think beyond individual efforts and embrace
cooperation as a means to create a more inclusive and impactful society. The event
celebrated the spirit of community service and the power of shared initiatives in driving
positive change.
· Sociothon
The Sociothon, held at the National Social Summit 2023, presented a unique opportunity for
participants to harness technology and design to address pressing societal challenges. This
innovative competition provided a platform for individuals to apply their skills and knowledge
to create tangible and meaningful impact for society.
Sociothon was not just a competition; it was a development hackathon that aimed to foster an
innovation culture and civic engagement. Participants were encouraged to think beyond the
traditional boundaries of technology and design to develop innovative solutions to real-world
social problems. The event challenged attendees to be the best innovators by showcasing
their development and creative skills.
The event embodied the spirit of the National Social Summit by encouraging unconventional
approaches to solving societal issues. It underscored the significance of using technology
and design as tools for positive change and social impact. Sociothon was a reminder that the
most effective solutions often come from those who dare to break conventions and apply their
skills to improve the world.
The National Social Summit 2023, through Sociothon, demonstrated its commitment to
fostering innovation, civic engagement, and the use of technology and design to drive
societal progress. It encouraged participants to embrace their development and innovative
skills, making a meaningful difference in the world.
· Action Plan
The "B-Plan/Pitching Competition," an integral part of the National Social Summit 2023, served
as a pivotal platform for emerging leaders driven by passion and determination to effect
positive change in the world. The event recognized that progress and innovation often
originate from the ideas and fervor of young leaders, making it imperative to provide them with
a stage to showcase their transformative concepts to the broader public.
This competition was tailored for social entrepreneurs, where the amalgamation of technology,
visionary thinking, and business acumen converged with the shared objective of serving the
community. It was a dynamic and unconventional forum that encouraged participants to break
free from traditional entrepreneurial approaches and embrace innovation as a means to drive
societal impact.
The "B-Plan/Pitching Competition" was a celebration of the spirit of entrepreneurship
dedicated to community service. It highlighted the significance of empowering social
entrepreneurs to think creatively, challenge conventions, and find novel solutions to address
societal issues.
This event epitomized the National Social Summit's mission to foster innovation and inclusivity
in societal transformation. It showcased the power of young leaders in redefining the
boundaries of entrepreneurship, paving the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.
· MUN
The Model United Nations (MUN) event at the National Social Summit 2023 offered a unique
opportunity for participants to step into the shoes of United Nations delegates and engage in
a simulation of UN procedures. MUN challenged participants to emulate the diplomatic world
by participating in discussions, lively debates, and negotiations, mirroring the real-world
complexities of international relations.
This MUN event featured two committees, each with its own pertinent agenda, adding an
extra layer of diversity to the proceedings:
1) United Nations Security Council (UNSC): The committee focused its discussions on
"Analyzing the Growing Influence of China in the Indian Ocean Region." This agenda served
as a thought-provoking platform for participants to address a real-world issue and simulate
the diplomatic challenges of international relations.
2) All India Political Parties Meet (AIPPM): This committee tackled the complex and pressing
topic of "Deliberating on Same-Sex Marriage in India." It provided a space for participants to
engage in discussions about social issues, highlighting the significance of diverse
perspectives and inclusivity.
The MUN event underscored the importance of diplomacy, negotiation, and collaboration in
addressing global and societal challenges. It encouraged participants to think critically and
engage with complex issues, fostering the skills necessary to break conventions and drive
positive change.
The National Social Summit's MUN event exemplified the summit's mission to promote
inclusivity, diversity, and innovation in addressing the most pressing issues facing society. It
celebrated the power of dialogue, diplomacy, and international cooperation in shaping a more
inclusive and harmonious world.
Valedictory Ceremony
On the 12th of March, 2023, at the MAC Auditorium, the National Social Summit 2023
concluded on a high note with the Valedictory Ceremony. The event served as a fitting
culmination to the summit's week-long journey of unconventional thinking, inclusivity, and
societal transformation.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, emphasizing the summit's commitment
to fostering innovation and community engagement:
Chief Guests:
- Prof. Apurbba Sharma, Director of Alumni Affairs, IIT Roorkee.
- Mr. Dinesh Singh Pawar, Secretary of IITR Alumni Association.
Guest of Honor:
- Mr. Akash Soni, Co-founder and CEO of Indi Energy.
The Valedictory Ceremony was a testament to the incredible impact of the National Social
Summit, which was dedicated to challenging conventions and breaking barriers to create a
more inclusive and innovative society. It celebrated the spirit of inclusivity, cooperation, and
diversity in addressing the most pressing issues of our time.
Speakers and attendees alike shared their insights, experiences, and takeaways from the
summit, highlighting the need for unconventional thinking, inclusivity, and collaborative
action. The ceremony recognized the outstanding contributions of participants, speakers, and
volunteers who made the event a resounding success.
The Valedictory Ceremony of the National Social Summit 2023 was not just an ending; it was a new
beginning, inspiring all in attendance to carry the spirit of breaking conventions and fostering
innovation forward in their respective fields and in the larger society. It symbolized the power of
young leaders, creativity, and unconventional approaches in shaping a more inclusive and equitable
future for all.
