Students PAN- India to Join Environmental and Seva Internships

Indian Philosophy, Not Western Definitions, Drives Our Spirit of Service: Ashish Chauhan

Prayagraj: The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) officially inaugurated its Magh Mela camp today with Vedic chanting and traditional rituals. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Ashish Chauhan, National Organizing Secretary of ABVP, as the chief guest. Following the inauguration, the organization unveiled official hoodies and posters for the Students for Development (SFD) and Students for Seva (SFS) internship programs. Additionally, a specialized medical service initiative led by medical students was announced during the event. Every year, ABVP Prayag Mahanagar organizes various internship programs at the Sangam area, attracting students from across the country to work on environmental conservation and diverse social subjects. This year’s key initiatives include Students’ for Development (SFD), which focuses on environmental protection and ensuring a “Clean Magh Mela” through sustainable practices, and Students’ for Seva (SFS), dedicated to providing selfless service and volunteer support to the millions of devotees attending the fair. Additionally, Medivision will provide essential medical and first-aid services through medical students, while Jignasa will address all aspects related to AYUSH systems.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Ashish Chauhan remarked, “In India’s 75-year democratic journey, a student organization like ABVP cannot be limited by ‘neutral’ or ‘secular’ concepts rooted in Western definitions. Indian culture and philosophy cannot be understood through the narrow lens of European ‘religion.’ Historical invasions and the Macaulay system struck at our language and culture, creating a sense of inferiority regarding our own values. Indian philosophy experiences the divine in all living beings and this consciousness is the foundation of our tradition of service.”