1987 – Origins of Develop Yourself

The story of SERVE began in July 1987 at L.N.T. College, Muzaffarpur, under the vision and tireless guidance of Shri Anand Kumar, affectionately known as Babloo Jee. With no institutional backing or resources, he inspired a small group of students to dream beyond their immediate circumstances.

This early initiative, called Develop Yourself, was a humble yet powerful movement to nurture communication skills, sharpen intellect, and prepare students for both professional and societal challenges.

Early Struggles

In its initial years, Develop Yourself faced immense difficulties. Sessions were often attended by just a handful of students, conducted in open spaces, or borrowed classrooms. Yet Babloo Jee’s unwavering dedication transformed even the smallest gatherings into meaningful experiences.

He instilled in students the values of discipline, self-improvement, and collective effort, motivating them to persist despite all odds.

Early Torchbearers

This journey was never carried by one person alone. Alongside Babloo Jee, several pioneers played pivotal roles in shaping the movement:

• Late Krishna Kumar Jha, remembered with deep reverence, stood as a pillar in difficult times when the educational atmosphere was bleak.
• Sanat Bhardwaj, Amar Kumar, and Prabhat Kumar worked shoulder to shoulder with Babloo Jee, providing energy, vision, and leadership.

At a time when many institutions had become mere enrolment centres, these early torchbearers became rays of hope, guiding thousands and giving the initiative strength and credibility.

Building Skills & Confidence

Babloo Jee emphasized oratory, debates, and quizzes as tools of transformation. He encouraged students to:

• Express themselves in English,
• Refine their reasoning, and
• Engage critically with social and political issues.

His mentorship strengthened communication skills and instilled confidence, resilience, and independent thinking—qualities that would define the leaders SERVE produced.

Overcoming Challenges

The journey was not without obstacles. Internal conflicts and external pressures repeatedly tested the group. But Babloo Jee’s wisdom, patience, and ability to mediate and inspire unity ensured that the vision stayed intact. These qualities kept the initiative alive and growing.

1993 – Formal Inauguration of SERVE

A major milestone came on 26th January 1993, when Develop Yourself was formally inaugurated as the Society for Education and Reconstruction by Voluntary Efforts (SERVE).

With this transformation, the group gained structure, identity, and renewed purpose. Babloo Jee guided the establishment of:

• Defined roles and responsibilities,
• A working library and curated study materials,
• Regular quiz sessions, debates, and structured study circles

This laid a solid foundation for disciplined growth.

Growth & Recognition

With discipline, structure, and vision, SERVE expanded steadily. More students were drawn to its reputation and Babloo Jee’s mentorship.

Its members went on to win recognition in debates, elocution, and quiz competitions at college, district, and university levels. Beyond competitions, SERVE became a platform where students discovered potential, gained confidence, and found direction.

More Than 5,000 Beneficiaries

Over the last three decades, SERVE has nurtured and guided over 5,000 students. Many are now working in senior positions as professors, officers, doctors, engineers, and corporate leaders, both in India and abroad.

For Babloo Jee, though he himself is a teacher, his proudest moments have been when his students became gazetted officers and leaders in society.

A Workshop of Values

SERVE was never just an academic forum. It was also a workshop of values, functioning much like a Scout and Guide laboratory of life. Under Babloo Jee’s mentorship, students learned not only knowledge but also discipline, courage, moral responsibility, and resilience.

These qualities remain the living spirit of SERVE.

Legacy & Transformation

At the heart of SERVE is Babloo Jee’s vision, dedication, and selfless mentorship. From its origins as Develop Yourself in 1987 to its formal inauguration as SERVE in 1993, the movement has illuminated thousands of lives.

It stands as proof that committed leadership and collective effort can transform humble beginnings into a lasting force for education, empowerment, and societal impact.

The flame lit decades ago continues to shine, guiding new generations and reminding us that education, when combined with values, can truly change society.