Jamshedpur: The SIGMA-oikos committee at XLRI Jamshedpur successfully concluded the 16th edition of Daan Utsav, India’s celebrated “festival of giving,” which took place from October to December 2024. This year’s event was particularly significant, marking two milestones: the 20th anniversary of the committee’s dedication to service and the immense success of the initiatives that brought together students, faculty, and community partners.
Daan Utsav exemplified XLRI’s unwavering commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future.
The event kicked off with a Blood Donation Drive, where over 80 units of blood were collected, setting the tone for a week of impactful community service.
One of the most notable aspects of Daan Utsav was the Wish Tree initiative. In collaboration with several NGOs including People for Change, Shiva Educational Trust, and Sahyog Village, the campaign fulfilled the heartfelt wishes of children and families. Over Rs 1.3 lakhs were raised, with support from more than 180 generous donors, making a direct and lasting impact.
The Cloth Donation Drive was another major success, with XLRI students and partner institutions contributing more than 15,000 clothing items. These were distributed to underserved communities across nine villages, providing warmth and relief during the winter season.
In addition, the Menstrual Awareness Drive, a collaboration with the Robinhood Army and Koru Foundation, focused on improving health and hygiene in Gitilata village, Potka. More than 200 women were educated on menstrual health, while sustainable cloth pad kits were distributed to promote both empowerment and environmental responsibility.
A heartwarming initiative, Gift of Time, saw XLRI students spend quality time with over 160 elderly and specially-abled individuals at R.P. Patel Cheshire Home and Nirmal Hriday. This initiative emphasized the importance of companionship, social inclusion, and emotional support for vulnerable groups.
Fr. Donald D’Silva, S.J., Dean of Administration and Finance at XLRI, highlighted the significance of Daan Utsav, saying, “As a student-driven initiative, Daan Utsav exemplifies XLRI’s vision of fostering responsible leaders who are sensitive to societal needs. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to create ripples of positive change.”
This year’s celebrations also supported Udaan, a project dedicated to empowering visually impaired artisans. During Diwali and Christmas, festive stalls showcasing handmade candles, diyas, and snacks offered a platform for these artisans to share their crafts, enhancing the holiday spirit while fostering inclusivity.
With its diverse and impactful initiatives, Daan Utsav 2024 once again proved the power of collective action. It underscored XLRI’s ongoing mission to nurture socially conscious leaders who are committed to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.
