National Service Scheme (NSS)
History of NSS:
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a Government of India-sponsored public service program conducted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Launched in 1969, marking Mahatma Gandhi’s Centenary Year, NSS aims to develop students’ personalities through community service. It is a voluntary association of young individuals from universities, colleges, and +2-level institutions, fostering campus-community linkages.
In May 1969, a conference of student representatives from universities and higher education institutions, convened by the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC), unanimously recognized NSS as a tool for national integration. The Planning Commission sanctioned ₹5 crores for NSS during the Fourth Five-Year Plan, leading to its official launch on 24 September 1969 by Union Education Minister Thiru V.K.R.V. Rao at 37 universities across all states. The scheme has since expanded nationwide, covering universities, colleges, and +2-level institutions.
NSS Symbol and Significance:
The NSS emblem is inspired by the Giant Rath Wheel of the Konark Sun Temple, Odisha. It symbolizes the cycle of creation, preservation, and release, representing life’s movement across time and space.
The eight bars in the wheel signify 24 hours of a day.
The navy blue color symbolizes the vast cosmos, indicating NSS as a small yet impactful part of humanity’s welfare.
The red color represents youthful energy, enthusiasm, and high spirits, reflecting the vibrancy of NSS volunteers.
The emblem stands for continuity and transformation, highlighting NSS’s commitment to social upliftment and change.
Motto of NSS:
Theme of NSS:
- The theme of NSS is “YOUTH FOR MY BHARAT”
Aims and Objectives of NSS:
- To develop an understanding of the community in which they work
- To identify community needs and challenges and actively engage in problem-solving processes.
- To foster a sense of social and civic responsibility.
- To apply their knowledge in finding practical solutions to individual and community problems.
- To cultivate the competence necessary for group living and shared responsibilities.
- To acquire skills in mobilizing community participation.
- To develop leadership qualities and a democratic mindset.
- To build the capacity to respond effectively to emergencies and natural disasters.
Types of Activities:
There are two types of activities
- Regular Activities (120 hours),
- Special Camp Activities (120 hours)
-- All the NSS Volunteers who have served NSS for at least 2 years and have performed 240 hours of work under NSS are entitled to a certificate from the University under the signature of the Vice-Chancellor and the NSS Programme Coordinator.
-- Special Camps are held annually funded by the Government of India and are usually located in a rural village.
--Volunteers may be involved in such activities as
- Cleaning
- Plantation
- Blood Donation Camps
- Awareness Rallies
- Health Care Camps
- Stage shows or a procession creating awareness of such issues as social problems, education and cleanliness
