Value Based Education @ SCMS

SCMS DSU MBA Students Lead Anti-Drug Awareness Drive in Thokasandra Village

Every day across India, countless lives are derailed not by overt violence or natural disaster, but by the silent and insidious epidemic of drug abuse. A staggering 1.58 crore children aged between 10 and 17 years are already ensnared by substance addiction in the country- a reality that casts a long shadow over the nation’s future. Drug abuse severely undermines academic success, often impairing key cognitive functions and disrupting students’ engagement in their studies. In response, the Chairperson of the Anti-Drug Committee and Dean of the School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS), Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, reaffirmed Dayananda Sagar University’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and well-being within its academic community. The university maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards drug abuse, both on and off campus, to ensure a healthy and supportive learning environment for all students. The university is deeply committed to fostering social awareness and contributing positively to society.

On 9th July, 2025, SCMS, Dayananda Sagar University’s Student Service, and the Anti-Drug Committee organized an impactful anti-drug awareness camp in Thokasandra village, Kanakapura Taluka, Ramanagara District, Karnataka. This initiative aimed to educate local residents, especially youth, about the severe consequences of drug and substance abuse and to promote a healthier, drug-free community.

The event commenced with a session led by the MBA students, who provided a comprehensive overview of how drugs can devastate not only an individual’s life but also the lives of those around them. Using real-life examples and relatable stories, the students highlighted the physical, mental, and social repercussions of substance abuse. To drive the message home further, a gripping skit was performed, depicting the journey of a young individual led astray by friends and trapped in drug addiction. The performance effectively illustrated the progressive nature of addiction, the impact on family and society, and the eventual isolation and involvement in criminal activities that often follow.

The highlight of the camp was a rally around Thokasandra village, where all participants marched together holding banners and chanting the slogan, “Say no to drugs, and say yes to life.” The rally aimed to spread the anti-drug message beyond the event itself, inspiring a collective commitment to combat drug abuse within the wider community. This awareness campaign is part of SCMS’s broader commitment to social responsibility and public health education, in alignment with Dayananda Sagar University’s efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3, which strives to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.

DRUG ABUSE AWARENESS INITIATIVE BY PRABHAVA CLUB AT SCMS-PG

The School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS) continues its unwavering commitment to fostering a safe and healthy learning environment for MBA students, both on and off campus. In pursuit of this mission, “Prabhava Club” of SCMS organized an impactful awareness session on “Drug Abuse” on July 1, 2025. To ensure maximum participation, the event was also streamed live via Zoom.

As shared by Dean-SCMS, Capt A Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, the primary objective of the session was to educate and sensitize students about the dangers of substance use and addiction, and to empower them with knowledge to make informed choices.

The event featured distinguished experts, Dr. Venkata Lakshmi Narasimha and Dr. Aishwariya Jha, from the prestigious National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru.

During the session, the experts provided deep insights into the far-reaching consequences of drug abuse, highlighting its detrimental effects not only on individuals but also on families and society at large. They also discussed practical strategies for overcoming addiction and emphasized the importance of supporting those affected by substance abuse. The interactive session encouraged students to ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with the experts.

Adding a creative touch to the event, a group of students performed a thought-provoking skit, effectively raising awareness about the realities and risks of drug abuse. Through such initiatives, SCMS reaffirms its dedication to nurturing responsible, well-informed citizens and maintaining a positive, drug-free campus environment.

Challengers Club at SCMS-MBA Celebrated International Yoga Day – A Harmony of Body and Mind

On the vibrant morning of 28th June 2025, Challengers Club of SCMS–MBA, Dayananda Sagar University, we celebrated International Yoga Day with great enthusiasm and collective energy. The event served as a meaningful pause in our academic calendar, bringing students and faculty together in the spirit of wellness, mindfulness, and rejuvenation.

The session was inaugurated by our respected Dean- SCMS, Capt. A Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, who set the tone for the day by highlighting the significance of yoga in maintaining balance amidst life’s fast-paced demands. He later distributed participation certificates to students and presented a special memento to the yoga master in recognition of his inspiring practice session.

The session was gracefully conducted by Mr. Srinivas Murthy, our in-house Yoga Master, whose calm presence and expert guidance helped participants immerse themselves in a series of yoga asanas, breathing techniques, and meditative practices. Students followed along with great interest and dedication, reflecting a growing appreciation for holistic health.

The atmosphere was filled with calm energy, unity, and joy, reinforcing the idea that wellness is not just a personal journey but a shared experience. From mindful breathing to stretches that awakened every sense, the day reminded us all of the timeless wisdom embedded in the practice of yoga.

We are proud of the enthusiastic participation and grateful for the effort that made this event a success. As per faculty coordinator for Challengers Club Dr Suresh S, it truly was a celebration of health, awareness, and inner harmony, values that continue to shape our academic and personal lives.

SCMS organized a Transformative Adventurous Experiential Learning Program for MBA Batch 2024-2026 at Eagles Unbound

To nurture a wide array of managerial skills in first-semester MBA students, the School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS) at Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru, under the visionary guidance of Dean Captain A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, organized a transformative two-day experiential learning program called “Eagles Unbound.” Held from 13th to 14th December 2024 as part of our Centre of Proficiency Enhancement - HR | Leadership & Value-Based Education initiative, the event provided students with a unique platform for personal and professional growth. These dynamic activities aimed to enhance vital skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, conflict resolution, motivation, and leadership. By immersing themselves in these experiences, students gain insights and tools that will empower them to contribute meaningfully to their future organizations.

Set in the adventure hotspot Eagles Unbound in Bengaluru, the program emphasized the mantra "Fear ends where adventure begins." It offered students a chance to step out of their comfort zones, discover their potential, and develop crucial life skills while having fun.

The activities were meticulously designed to foster physical, mental, and emotional resilience. Students participated in:

• Icebreakers and group obstacle races
• Individual obstacle courses
• Rock climbing, ziplining, and high-rope challenges
• Team-building and leadership exercises
• Archery, shooting, and mind games
• Rain dancing, camping with a bonfire, and more

The program was expertly coordinated by SCMS faculty members Dr. Sagar Manjunath, Dr. Silky Sharma, Prof. Navita Vijay, Prof. Purnendu Maji, and staff member Mr. Sreenivas Murthy, ensuring its seamless execution and impactful learning outcomes.

CELEBRATION OF PRE INDEPENDENCE-DAY INDIA HERITAGE SHOWCASE AT SCMS DSU

To commemorate our national freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to free India from British rule, Cultural committee members of SCMS under the guidance of naval leader, Dean SCMS Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao conceptualised and organized a wonderful “The Pre-Independence Day India Heritage Showcase” event on 14th August 2024 at DSU Innovation Campus. In the inaugural address, Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao emphasized that the event has been organized with an objective to inculcate spirit of patriotism, be united as Indian, and embrace the cultural differences. Independence Day unites people from all over India, regardless of religion, caste, class, state, or gender. To celebrate our Indian cultural diversity, Cultural Committee Coordinators Dr. Padmalatha and Prof. Silky Sharma organized two important platforms for MBA students to participate, perform and showcase their talents through

1. State wise cultural show
2. Talent Show

The Pre-Independence Day India Heritage Showcase featured a series of cultural performances, including traditional dances, music that showcased the diverse cultural tapestry of India. Students from MBA Department participated, displaying the heritage of different regions of India from North to South and East to West through their vibrant costumes. Indian traditional dance forms like Yakshagana which is a traditional theatre, developed in Dakshina Kannada, in the state of Karnataka and in Kasaragod district in Kerala that combines dance, music, dialogue, costume, make-up, and stage techniques with a unique style and form was also performed by an MBA student and was one of the special attractions of the day. Also, there were melodious singing performances by SCMS MBA faculties Mr Raghavendra Rao, Dr Sagar Manjunath, Dr. Priyanka Roy, and Mr Parthasarathy who dedicated their songs to the glory of nation and struggles of freedom fighters. The event was a great success through efforts by all coordinating faculties, students. The event concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Silky Sharma for wholeheartedly participation by students and thanked Dr Shayamantha, Deputy Director – Student Affairs for her motivational presence, and thanked for the support of administration and IT department for the conduct of event.

Social Outreach Program "Hope Camp" by SCMS at Govt School Singasandra

A Hope Camp was organized by the School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS) on 16th July 2024 to distribute essential school stationeries among 330 students of the Government Higher Primary School, Singasandra. The camp, held under the guidance of Dean-SCMS Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao, aimed to support underprivileged children in the local community. Faculty members Dr. Shweta Tewari and Dr. Abhijit Ranjan Das coordinated the event, which saw enthusiastic participation from SCMS students. The donated items included notebooks, pens, pencils, and other necessary stationeries to help the children continue their education. The Hope Camp exemplifies SCMS's commitment to social responsibility and making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

International Yoga Day at SCMS (5th July)

International Yoga Day was celebrated at the School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS), DSU on July 5th, 2024. Yoga is an important part of our life and Dean-SCMS Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao, emphasized the importance of yoga in helping students to lead a healthy life. The event was coordinated by Dr. Padmalatha N A and Dr. Abhijit Ranjan Das. International Yoga Day is celebrated to raise awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga. It was first observed in 2015 after being declared by the United Nations General Assembly. Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that promotes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The theme for International Yoga Day 2024 is "Yoga for Self and Society." This theme emphasizes the two-fold benefits of yoga practice: enhancing personal well-being and fostering a more positive and harmonious society.

For the event, the yoga instructor was Shri Sreenivas Murthy, who is a Yoga Protocol Instructor at the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. The instructor began the session with the meridian cleansing breathing technique followed by warm-up exercises. He demonstrated breathing exercises and yoga postures for better health. He also demonstrated asanas like Tadasana, Tiryak Tadasana, Katichakrasana, and Baddhakonasana. Lastly, Sahaja Pranayama and Caitanya Kriya Dhyana meditation were demonstrated to all the participants. Second-semester MBA student Sanjeevi S also demonstrated different asanas at last. Students learnt different asanas from the event. .

Pathways to purpose: The Power of Discipline

School Discipline Committee at Dayananda Sagar University, School of Commerce and Management (SCMS), organised a program on “Power of Discipline” on April 18, 2024. Under the guidance of Dean- SCMS, Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, Air Mashal Mr S. P. Singh (Retired) PVSM : AVSM : VM, was invited to speak on the Pathway to Purpose, the power of discipline as a key competence. The Air Marshal now retired, saw action in Sri Lanka and Kargil and is a military strategist.

Through his experiences and inspirational stories, Mr S.P. Singh shared Self-discipline will build students basic character and make them strong enough when they are weak and brave enough to face when they are afraid. He spoke with several examples about discipline, which is an essential attribute so for societal living and growth. More than 200 students from MBA 1st Sem Batch and faculty members attended and got benefitted from the knowledgeable session.

National Integration Camp

The NSS students of SCMS-PG MBA Program attended the National Integration Camp held at KSRDPRU University Campus, Nagavi, Gadag, Karnataka from 14th to 20th March 2024. The camp was organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and aimed to promote unity, cultural exchange, and leadership among young volunteers from different states. Throughout the 7-day event, attendees engaged in discussions, sports activities, and community projects to foster understanding and friendship. The camp successfully encouraged harmony and social awareness among India's youth, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity. Overall, the NSS National Integration Camp 2024 was a resounding success in nurturing a sense of national pride and communal harmony among its participants. The camp was indeed a transformative experience for all participants.

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Challengers Club SCMS organized Sports Day at DSU

Continuing the tradition of holistic experiential learning, Challengers Club of School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS) at Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru, organized an exhilarating sports event for MBA and UG students on March 16th at Harohalli campus, Kanakapura. Under the visionary leadership of Dean, Captain A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, the event aimed to foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness among the participants. Three sporting events were held, encompassing cricket, volleyball, and relay race competitions. The track and field and sports facilities at Dayananda Sagar University are world class and brilliant. MBA 2023 students participated in several events in the school games Invictus 2023 - 2024.

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Anti-Alcohol and Anti-Drugs Drive at by Anti-Drug Committee, DSU

On March 4, 2024, Dayananda Sagar University's School of Commerce and Management Studies organized an impactful event addressing the critical issue of anti-alcohol and anti-drugs under the guidance of Chairperson Anti-Drug Committee & Dean - School of Commerce and Management Studies, Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao, Ph.D.

The event was graced by distinguished speakers for the event:

Mr. Arun Chakravarthy IPS, the Additional Director General of Police in the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement, Government of Karnataka, and Chairman of the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous India and

Mr. Srikanth Shetty, a revered trustee from the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous India.

And university leaders present in the event were as follows:

• Captain A Nagaraj, Subbarao - Chairperson Anti-Drug Committee, Dayananda Sagar University & Dean - School of Commerce and Management Studies
• Mrs. Vaijyanthi B Desai, Director Communications, Corporate & Government Relations
• Dr. Truptha Shankar - Assistant Dean- School of Commerce and Management Studies

The event was coordinated and compered by Prof. S. Sharma.

The program comprised in-depth discussions and interactive sessions designed to raise awareness and implement effective prevention strategies against drug and alcohol abuse. Both speakers actively combat anti-alcohol and anti-drug issues, providing assistance to those seeking recovery. During their insightful addresses, the speakers shared real life stories, emphasizing that alcoholism is a chronic disease akin to diabetes, necessitating lifelong management. They advocated for the understanding that, while there might not be a cure, control and prevention are achievable.

The overarching message conveyed to the audience was the significance of prevention over cure. Saying no to the first sip of alcohol or the initial encounter with drugs, resisting peer pressure, and avoiding substance abuse were emphasized as crucial steps. The speakers stressed the potential harm to an individual's physical, mental health, and overall well-being, as well as the impact on one's responsibilities in daily life.

Drive Outcome

All the Post-Graduate and Under Graduate Students participating in this anti-drugs and anti-alcohol drive had an eye-opening experience. The real-life stories of the alcoholic people shared by the speakers underscored the gravity of addiction and its profound effects on individuals and society. Understanding alcoholism as a chronic condition, manageable but demanding lifelong commitment, reshaped my perception.

The emphasis on prevention resonated deeply. Saying no to that first drink or drug is not merely a slogan but a practical and powerful strategy. Peer pressure and societal norms were debunked as invalid reasons to succumb to substance abuse. It became evident that the pursuit of a healthier and more responsible life begins with individual choices.

This session instilled a profound realization that combating drug and alcohol abuse is a collective responsibility. It is not only about helping those in the clutches of addiction but also about fostering a culture that encourages responsible choices and supports individuals in maintaining a substance-free life. The role of organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous in providing assistance and community was particularly inspiring.

In conclusion, the anti-alcohol and anti-drugs drive at Dayananda Sagar University's School of Commerce and Management was a transformative experience, equipping participants with knowledge, empathy, and a renewed commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

A thrilling Adventurous Experiential Learning for MBA Students at Eagles Unbound @SCMS

Youth Champs Campaign @SCMS - # Tobacco Tax for health

School of Commerce and Management Studies organized a Youth Champs Campaign on December 14, 2023. The objective of the campaign is to introduce health taxes on tobacco products. This initiative will not only prevent diseases and untimely deaths of citizens due to tobacco, but also this will help in enhancing the economy of the nation. The event was jointly organized MAYA and SCMS.

Sense of Purpose

The School of Commerce and Management Studies at Dayananda Sagar University organizes events on "Adventures in Attitude" under Value Based Education for all PG and UG students, including MBA, BBA, B Com, Executive MBA students, and faculty members. SCMS believes that having the right attitudes is important for overall growth and success in life. In order to meet this need apart from covering regular coursework. 12 Attitudes have been chosen to be covered in 12 months program. Experts from different fields share their insights.

The second program in this series Adventures in Attitude was held on the topic "Sense of Purpose". It took place on 16.11.2023, with Mr. Bryan Cassaday as the speaker. Prof. Silky Sharma and Prof. Purnendu Maji coordinated the program under the guidance of Dean- SCMS, Captain A. Nagaraj Subbarao. The objective of the program was to show the importance of having a "Sense of Purpose" in all aspects of life and work. Mr. Cassaday shared information through a presentation, explaining each point with examples. Different aspects of the "Sense of Purpose" attitude were discussed in detail. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the program.

Earlier, the first program focused on the important attitude of being a "Team Player" and was held on 19.10.2023, wherein speaker, Mr. Raj Venkatappa, Senior Director- Ethics & Compliance at Flipkart Internet Pvt Limited, shared his expertise. The outcome of the program highlighted that defining the purpose of everything we do makes it more meaningful. Participants learnt the importance of having a sense of purpose and right attitude in life. Overall, the program was a great success.

Problem Solving Competition through TRIZ held at SCMS for MBA Students

School of Commerce and Management Studies, Dayananda Sagar University organized a life saving event for youth.

SCMS is associated with MAYA ( NGO ) in an initiative focused on preventing children and youth from the harms of tobacco, drugs and other addictions.

MAYA conducted a workshop today to initiate forty of our students as Youth - Champs to take this initiative concerning substance abuse forward. Students of SCMS, UG & PG participated. This is part of our Value Based Education initiative of Dayananda Sagar University.

Dr B.S.Shankaranarayana Rao, Registrar and Head Dept. of Neurophysiology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru was the Chief Guest.

Dr Shalini Thakur, Surgical Oncologist, HCG, Bengaluru conducted the workshop along with Jithin Chandran, Maya.

Capt. A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, hosted the event, thanked the guest speakers for the conduct of this informative session for SCMS students.

A thrilling Adventurous Experiential Learning for MBA Students at Eagles Unbound @SCMS

In an endeavour to instil and foster a spectrum of managerial competencies among the budding PG (MBA 1^st Semester) students, the School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS), Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru under the kind guidance of Dean- School of Commerce and Management Studies, Captain A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD, organized a transformative sojourn called as “Eagle Unbound” spanning for two days, i.e., from 28^th November 2023 to 29^th November 2023 under our Value Based Education Programs. The said tour became a crucible for experimental learning. Eagles Unbound is a thrilling adventure activities spot in Bangalore, offering an escape from the. "Fear ends when adventure begins.

SCMS MBA 1^st Semester students participated in an array of activities related to build physical, mental and emotional strength along with time for few enjoyment activities also. Students got an opportunity to know and discover themselves while having fun exploring new things.

Within the confines of this tour, students actively engaged in a myriad of activities like

• Ice breakers, Group Obstacle Race (team activity), Individual Obstacles,
• Rock climbing, Zipline, High Rope course, Team Building & Leadership Games,
• Archery & Shooting, Mind Games (team activity), Rain dance, Camping with Bonfire, and many more

Activities are designed to hone life skills like team building exercises, problem solving scenarios, art of conflict resolution, motivation, leadership, and so on. These experiential lessons are poised to serve as an invaluable reservoir of knowledge, empowering the students to make meaningful contributions to the organization they will eventually become a part of.

The Program was coordinated by SCMS faculties- Dr. Sagar Manjunath, Prof. Silky Sharma, Prof. Navita Vijay, and Prof. Abhijit Das.

Adventures in Attitude - TEAM PLAYER 19th October 2023, Thursday

About the Event

In order to inculcate right values and attitude, School of Commerce and Management Studies (SCMS), Dayananda Sagar University (DSU), organized an event Titled “Adventures in Attitudes” on 19th October 2023, Thursday. In addition to the core curriculum, SCMS believes in development of right attitudes as it is highly important for holistic development and growth in life ahead for all students. A program on one of the most important attitudinal attribute “ TEAM PLAYER “ was organized for all PG and UG students including MBA, Executive MBA, BBA, and B.Com students and faculties. The eminent speaker Mr. Raj Venkatappa is designated as Sr. Director - Ethics & Compliance at Flipkart Internet Pvt Limited, Bengaluru.

The Program was coordinated by SCMS faculties- Prof. Silky Sharma & Prof. Purnendu Maji under the kind guidance of Dean- School of Commerce and Management Studies, Captain A. Nagaraj Subbarao, PhD.

Objective

To demonstrate the importance of the attribute and being a true “Team Player” amongst all the participants and all aspects of this attitude and inculcate a right approach towards work and life.

Participants

All MBA students of SCMS (PG) , all BBA and B Com students as well as all executive MBA students of SCMS ( PG ) , all teaching and non-teaching staff of SCMS Dayananda Sagar University attended the program.

Event description

The event started with the nice introduction of the speaker Mr. Raj Venkatappa by moderator of the event. Content was shared by Mr. Venkatappa through an effective presentation and every point was elaborated with real life examples. Different aspects of the attitude “Team Player” were articulated in details. Participants asked questioned at the end of the program and clarified their doubts. The event was successfully moderated by SCMS faculty - Prof. Silky Sharma.

Outcome of the program

It is rather collaboration not competition that plays important role. Participants learnt and understood the importance of attitudes in life. Being a team player, improves overall effectiveness of the individual and the organization as a whole. It not only helps a person achieve his personal goal but organizational goals are achieved.

Overall the program was a great success with a huge participation of the audience.