Deeksharambh 2025: HSNC University’s 9-day Master Induction Series For Incoming First Year Students Ushers in A 360-degree Holistic Start To Academic Life

In her session on “From 12^th to NEP: Become Thinkers, Doers, Leaders”, Dr. Bagla also briefed students on the new curriculum in accordance with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with specific focus on the multi-disciplinary aspect, credit structure, maximum credits, minimum credits, academic bank of credits (ABC), recognition of prior learning (RPL), extended degree programme (EDP), accelerated degree programme (ADP), multiple entry and exit options, with emphasis on academic, extracurricular and vocational activities as well as stressing on physical fitness and mental well-being. 

The discourse then shifted to digital vigilance with Shri Brijesh Singh (IPS), Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Additional DGP, Maharashtra, who spoke compellingly on the evolving landscape of cyber security during his session titled “Think Before You Click: The Cyber Defence Mindset”. He emphasised that cyber security now is a vital life skill, essential for safeguarding one’s identity, data  and digital presence. As threats escalate, he urged students to remain alert and embrace tech with discernment. Shri Singh highlighted a range of serious cyber risks, including doxing, image morphing, financial scams, revenge porn and dangers lurking on the dark web. “Personal data, like passwords, credit card details, Aadhaar numbers and even student records, are routinely bought and sold on the dark web, often for just a few hundred rupees,” Shri Singh cautioned. Further, he explained the modus operandi of several cyber scams and stressed the importance of the golden hour, the critical window immediately after a cyber scam, when swift reporting can significantly limit damage.

Dr. Bagla announced that Shri Brijesh Singh will be joining HSNC University as a Professor of Practice, a prestigious appointment that brings domain expertise and practical insights directly into the classroom and further strengthens the University’s commitment to cutting-edge, practice-oriented learning.

In a strategic move to combat cyber crime by sensitising the younger generations, HSNC University, has partnered with Wht Now, an NGO working at the forefront of cyber vigilance. Ms. Neeti Goel, Founder, Wht Now, brought clarity and urgency to the session, stating, “Awareness is the new armour.”  She added “In today’s climate of heightened digital vulnerability, threats such as bank frauds, fake digital arrests and coercive demands for money in the name of war or national duty are deeply concerning. These are not merely scams, they are emotional manipulations that prey on trust, fear and patriotism”.  Dr. Nivedita Shreyans, co-founder, Wht Now and Ms. Aditi Goel, Lead Ambasssador, Wht Now also reiterated the importance of early sensitisation and swift response in a digitally volatile world. Dr. Shreyans shared that Wht Now will soon begin collaborative workshops, led by experts in cyber security, law and mental health, will equip students to recognise cybercrime tactics, manage emotional fallout  and take appropriate legal action.

On Day 2, students had the privilege of listening to Mr. D. Sivanandhan, former Director General of Police (DGP) of Maharashtra and Founder, Mumbai Roti Bank, who delivered a compelling session titled “From Fearless Leadership to Benevolent Leadership”. Drawing from his decades of public service, he shared a deeply personal and insightful account of his journey, from the high-stakes realm of counter-terrorism and law enforcement to the quiet, powerful impact of feeding the hungry. He illustrated how leadership is not just about commanding authority, but about building trust, exercising empathy and using one’s power for the public good.

With stirring anecdotes from his time combating organised crime and his later humanitarian efforts, Mr. Sivanandhan challenged students to redefine leadership, not as dominance, but as duty. “Fearlessness is necessary to fight the bad,” he remarked, “but benevolence is what sustains society.” His session served as a powerful reminder that courage and compassion are not opposites, they are complements in the making of a responsible citizen and an ethical leader.

Dr. Leena Pujari, Dean of Interdisciplinary Studies, welcomed newcomers and reaffirmed HSNC University’s unwavering commitment to a safe, inclusive and respectful campus environment. She outlined the University’s strict zero-tolerance policy against ragging, harassment & discrimination and sensitised students to issues of gender equity and respectful conduct. She also provided clarity on available redressal mechanisms and support systems, ensuring students felt informed and empowered from the start.

Day 3 featured an intellectually enriching session by Mr. Shivaprasad Khened, Senior Advisor (Projects) to the Director General of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai. Speaking on "From Curiosity to Contribution: Learning that Transforms Life", Mr. Khened offered students a fascinating exploration of how museums are not merely repositories of artefacts, but dynamic spaces that bridge the past, present and future. He explained how memory, both personal and collective, is shaped by what societies choose to preserve and present and how museums play a vital role in this process. More importantly, he emphasised that modern museum experiences increasingly demand multidisciplinary thinking, drawing from history, arts, science, storytelling, design and technology. Through thought-provoking examples from Indian and global institutions, he urged students to see museums as vibrant learning ecosystems, places where curiosity is sparked, critical thinking is cultivated and culture becomes context. His session subtly encouraged students to look beyond the classroom and engage with the world through a wider, more integrative lens.

 

Later that day, Shri T. J. Ravi Shankar, teacher, journalist and lifelong learner, delivered a thoughtful session titled “Open Minds, Strong Minds”. He urged students to embrace diverse perspectives, think critically and balance openness with inner strength. In an age of noise and opinion, he reminded them that true intellectual power lies in listening deeply, questioning wisely and staying grounded in empathy and values.

 On Day 4, Mr. Amar Kant Jain, business strategist, delivered a practical and engaging session titled “Build Your Own Brand”. He helped students envision themselves as evolving brands“You are your own enterprise. Market your values, not just your skills.”He urged them to identify their core values, craft their narrative and present themselves with authenticity and confidence. His talk offered a fresh perspective on personal growth, blending self-awareness with strategy.

The day concluded with an insightful session by Dr. Radhakrishnan Pillai, Founder Director, Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership, who spoke on “Chanakya and Leadership.” Drawing from ancient Indian wisdom, he highlighted Chanakya’s timeless strategies on vision, discipline and governance. Dr. Pillai urged students to lead with clarity, courage and ethics, reminding them that true leadership blends intellect with integrity.

Day 5 featured an impactful session titled “Youth in Action: Disaster Preparedness & Community Support” by 5^th Battalion, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Sudumbre, Pune led by Commandant Santosh Bahadur Singh. The session combined compelling real-life examples with hands-on demonstrations to highlight the critical role youth can play in emergency response and resilience building. Students were trained in basic disaster management techniques, first-response protocols and the importance of community preparedness. The NDRF team emphasised that readiness, presence of mind and early action during a crisis can save lives, reinforcing the message that leadership also means stepping up in moments of uncertainty and service.

The session included a series of realistic, high-impact drills simulating emergencies such as flash floods, landslides, building collapses and fire outbreaks. The NDRF team demonstrated swift water rescue operations using inflatable boats and ropes and introduced innovative 'jugaad' techniques, like using dry coconuts, plastic bottles and other locally available floatation aids, for situations where conventional rescue gear may be unavailable. Students also learned how to respond to landslides and structural collapses, as well as execute rapid fire evacuations and life saving skills like CPR, equipping them with a practical, adaptable and community-focused approach to emergency response. The session underscored the vital role youth can play in building resilient societies and stepping up as first responders in times of crisis.

Day 6 began with a thought-provoking session by Adv. Chetan Kapadia, Senior Counsel, who spoke on “Legal Literacy-an option or empowerment,” highlighting the importance of legal awareness as a tool for individual and community empowerment. Legal literacy comes in various forms, ranging from basic awareness of rights and duties to specialised knowledge in areas like consumer protection, family law, labour rights and cyber laws. Each type empowers individuals to navigate legal systems confidently and seek justice when needed. He emphasised the critical role of legal awareness in today’s society, arguing that understanding one’s rights and responsibilities is not just optional but essential for true empowerment. Through real-life examples and engaging insights, he highlighted how legal literacy enables individuals to make informed decisions, stand up against injustice and actively participate in democratic processes. The session left participants with a deeper appreciation for the law as a powerful tool for social change. His address was a powerful reminder that education is not just about earning degrees, but about becoming informed, responsible citizens.

The second half of Day 6 featured a high-impact session on “Immediate Medical Response - Learning Life-saving Skills”, led by three of Mumbai’s most respected medical professionals, Dr. Leena Gupta, Director, Meesha Polyclinic & Diagnostic Centre; Dr. Mustansir Abbasi, a veteran orthopedic and spine surgeon with over 43 years of experience; and Dr. Jayesh Baviskar, a joint replacement specialist and consultant at Jaslok Hospital. Through a series of live demonstrations and interactive explanations, the doctors trained students in essential life-saving techniques such as performing CPR, fracture & sprain immobilisation, handling unconscious patients, recognising and responding to heart attacks and strokes, managing diabetic emergencies and seizures, providing care for burns, poisons and allergic reactions and managing trauma in the critical first few minutes after an emergency. The session emphasised the value of quick thinking, calm response and basic medical preparedness, empowering students to act confidently and effectively when faced with real-life medical crises.

Day 7 focused on critical life skills, featuring a hands-on session by a team from Mumbai Fire Brigade on Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Students were educated on identifying fire hazards, safe evacuation procedures and the proper use of fire extinguishers. The team, led by Mr. CV Bhosale, Divisional Fire Officer; Mr. U G Palande, Asst. Divisional  Fire Officer; Mr. Rohan More, Sr. Station Officer;  Mr. Amol Mulik, Station Officer, also highlighted the importance of remaining calm under pressure and acting swiftly during emergencies. By blending real-world demonstrations with clear safety protocols, the session empowered students with the confidence and knowledge to respond effectively in crisis situations reinforcing the message that awareness and preparedness can save lives.

On Day 8, Shriram Singh, Senior Private Banker & Zonal Head, Emkay Wealth Management delivered an  insightful talk on the transformative concept of "Food as Medicine". Drawing from both scientific research and personal experience, he emphasized the powerful role nutrition plays in not just maintaining health, but actively preventing and reversing chronic conditions. Mr. Singh began by highlighting a growing global shift, from reactive healthcare to proactive wellness. He advocated for whole foods, plant-based diets and warned against processed foods, urging the audience to view meals as preventive medicine. He elaborated on the link between gut health and mental well-being and combined traditional Indian wisdom with modern nutritional science, offering simple, practical tips. His talk left the audience inspired to make more conscious, health-focused food choices.

Day 8 also brought a refreshing confluence of rhythm, tradition and thought leadership through a deeply immersive session by Vidhushi Anuradha Pal, renowned tabla maestro, composer and educator. Speaking on the theme “Innovation Within Tradition,” she shared her journey as a pioneering woman in the male-dominated world of Indian classical percussion. Narrating her story through live performance snippets and personal stories, she illustrated how deep respect for tradition can co-exist with fearless experimentation. Urging students to honour their roots while evolving their voice, she said, “True innovation doesn’t discard tradition, it dialogues with it.”

With each rhythmic phrase, she illustrated how music has been both her path and her purpose, a medium not just of performance, but of healing, strength and self-expression. Breaking barriers in a male-dominated field, she urged students to honour tradition while daring to innovate. The session resonated with the students leaving them energised, reminding them that creativity thrives where passion meets perseverance. Dr. Bagla announced that Vidhushi Anuradha Pal will be joining HSNC University as a Professor of Practice.

On Day 9, as a part of their ongoing efforts to empower individuals with real-world life skills, HSNC University had the honour of hosting a lecture-cum-demonstration titled "Walk Without Fear", conducted by Mission Fight Back, an NGO founded by army veteran Lt. Col. (Retd.) Rohit Mishra and Mrs. Rashmi Mishra.  The session combined practical wisdom with hands-on demonstrations, offering participants critical tools for self-defence and personal safety. Participants learned simple yet powerful techniques to boost situational awareness, build confidence  and respond to threats with presence of mind and physical preparedness. The message was clear: safety begins with awareness and with the right mindset and training, one can "walk without fear." The session was met with enthusiastic participation and heartfelt appreciation. It served not only as a training module but also as an empowering call to action, reminding everyone that self-defense is not just a skill, but a mindset and a right.

Kicking off a thought-provoking afternoon, the Day 9 session featured three dynamic speakers, Ms. Nirali Bhatia, Ms. Riddhi Doshi Patel and Mr. Neeraj Singh, who addressed critical aspects of mental wellness, emotional resilience and digital awareness. Ms. Nirali Bhatia, a cyber psychology expert, opened with an eye-opening session on cyberspace addictions and emerging online threats, emphasising the urgent need for digital boundaries and awareness. She was followed by Ms. Riddhi Doshi Patel, who highlighted the importance of emotional management, offering practical tools for stress regulation and emotional intelligence in both personal growth and healthy relationships. The session concluded with Mr. Neeraj Singh, whose inspiring talk on “Living Your Dreams” motivated participants to embrace their passions and pursue their goals with determination. Together, the three speakers delivered a cohesive and empowering message that blended psychological insight, emotional growth and motivational energy.

Dhruv Kandhari, an FY student from HR College, appreciated the formidable line-up of speakers and said “This is a curated learning festival. Every session feels like a masterclass in life, not just academics. The speakers aren’t just informing us, they’re inspiring us to think, lead and grow. A heartfelt thank you to our Vice Chancellor, Dr. Hemlata K. Bagla for curating and arranging these sessions for us.”

Pratham Shikotra, BCA student from KC College said “The induction program was truly eye-opening. Every session introduced us to something new, be it personal safety, emotional intelligence or digital awareness. It felt like the perfect start to the academic year.”

“Each speaker brought a different perspective, and I learned something valuable from every session. I especially enjoyed the mix of psychology, health and life skills, said Darsh Dixit, a student of KC College.

“I liked how the sessions weren’t just lectures. They were interactive, real and relevant to what we go through as teenagers. I feel more confident and aware now,”said Riya Kenia, student of School of Data Science, HSNC University.

“Hearing from professionals from so many different fields inspired me to think about my own goals. It was motivational and very well-organised. I really appreciated how diverse the topics were. From motivational talks to hands-on self-defense demos, it was informative and engaging throughout.” said Ananya Kamath, BBA student at NHSMRE.

The sessions also gave first-year students a comprehensive glimpse into life at HSNC University, covering academic programs, course structures and departmental offerings. Students were introduced to an active co-curricular environment featuring the NSS, NCC, Rotaract Club, COSMOS (the student council) and a range of cultural, literary and entrepreneurial clubs. Excitement around the University’s flagship fest, Idalia, further highlighted the energy of campus life. With dedicated support systems like mental health counseling, peer mentorship and guidance services and inspirational messages from faculty and leadership, the sessions set a confident and welcoming tone for the academic journey ahead.

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