CB Subathu: Gantavya Career Programme

Introduction:
The Subathu Cantonment Board, committed to the holistic development of its community, has launched the “Gantavya Career Programme” to inspire and guide students towards higher education and success in competitive examinations. This initiative addresses the unique challenges faced by students from rural backgrounds, providing them with the tools and motivation to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Objective:
The primary objective of the Gantavya Career Programme is to enrich the educational experiences of students by connecting them with experts from various fields. These interactions are designed to inspire, guide, and provide practical insights into achieving success in higher education and competitive examinations.

Background:
Subathu Cantonment hosts several schools that serve students up to the high school and senior secondary levels. These schools include:

1. Kendriya Vidyalaya
2. Govt. Senior Secondary School (Girls)
3. Govt. Senior Secondary School (Boys)
4. Arya Public High School
5. Florence Convent Senior Secondary School (situated adjoining the area of Subathu Cantonment at Thari)

The students in these schools primarily come from rural backgrounds and often lack access to resources and mentorship for higher education and competitive exams. Recognizing this gap, the Subathu Cantonment Board initiated the Gantavya Career Programme.

Programme Details:
The Gantavya Career Programme includes a series of interactive sessions featuring successful professionals from various fields. These sessions are designed to:

• Motivate students to pursue higher education and competitive exams.
• Provide practical strategies and insights for academic and professional success.
• Address students’ queries and concerns regarding their future career paths.

Inaugural Session:
The first session of the Gantavya Career Programme was held on December 2, 2023, at the Govt. Senior Secondary School (Boys), Subathu. The session was graced by Ms. Priya Rani, Chief Executive Officer, Kasauli, who shared her inspiring journey from schooling to achieving success in higher education and competitive examinations. Her interactive and motivational talk addressed various queries from the students and provided valuable insights into effective study techniques and time management strategies.

Second Edition:
The second edition of the Gantavya Career Programme took place on June 6, 2024, at the Khukri Auditorium of 14 GTC, Subathu. The event was organized under the leadership of Brig. P.P Singh, AVSM, VSM, President, Cantonment Board, Subathu, and Sh. Yogesh Dilhor, Chief Executive Officer. Esteemed students from local schools skillfully managed the stage and proceedings, creating an engaging and structured environment for the event.

Speakers and Highlights:

1. Mr. Shaurya Arora: An alumnus of IIT Bombay and All India Rank 14 in the UPSC Civil Services Exams 2023, Mr. Arora captivated the audience with his stories of perseverance and success.
2. Ms. Kashish Bakshi: A Law Graduate from NLIU, Bhopal, and All India Rank 54 in the UPSC Civil Services Exams 2023, Ms. Bakshi shared her enriching experiences and practical advice for aspiring students.
3. Dr. Pragati Verma: An accomplished medical professional with degrees from PGIMS Rohtak, PGIMER Chandigarh, and AIIMS, and All India Rank 355 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2023, Dr. Verma imparted wisdom on becoming a proficient doctor and administrator.
4. Mr. Kunal Rastogi: A Civil Engineer from BITS Pilani and All India Rank 15 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2023, Mr. Rastogi shared his journey from academia to success in competitive exams.
5. Mr. Rishabh Raj Dev: A Law graduate from NUJS Kolkata, who excelled in IIT JEE, NEET, and CLAT entrance examinations, and secured All India Rank 167 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2023, Mr. Dev shared his academic journey and achievements.

Impact:

• Increased Motivation and Aspirations: The programme has significantly boosted students’ motivation to pursue higher education and competitive exams.
• Enhanced Guidance and Mentorship: Direct interactions with successful professionals have provided students with practical advice and mentorship.
• Broadened Horizons: Students’ perspectives on career options and the importance of higher education have broadened, fostering a culture of academic ambition.
• Community Engagement: The initiative has engaged parents, teachers, and local leaders in supporting students’ educational pursuits.

Conclusion:
The Gantavya Career Programme has become a beacon of hope and encouragement for the youth of Subathu Cantonment. By providing valuable guidance and inspiration, the programme aims to empower the next generation to dream big and achieve excellence in their chosen paths. The Subathu Cantonment Board remains committed to nurturing talent and fostering growth through this impactful initiative.

Future Plans:
The Cantonment Board, Subathu, intends to continue organizing Gantavya programmes in all the aforementioned schools and for the children of Subathu Cantonment employees. These sessions will be a regular feature, ensuring sustained motivation and guidance for the students.