National Service Scheme (NSS) was launched during 1969, the birth centenary year of Mahatma Gandhi, in 37 universities involving 40000 students. NSS is an extension dimension to the higher education system to orient the student youth to community service while they are studying in educational institutions.
Objectives of NSS
- To understand the community in which they work
- To understand themselves in relation to their community
- To identify the needs and problems of the community and involve them in the problem solving process
- To develop among themselves a sense of social and civic responsibility
- To utilise their knowledge in finding practical solution to individual and community problems
- To develop competence required for group-living and sharing of responsibilities
- To gain skills in mobilising community participation
- To acquire leadership qualities and democratic attitude
- To develop capacity to meet emergencies and natural disasters
- To practice national integration and social harmony
Motto and Symbol
. The motto or watchword of the National Service Scheme is “NOT ME BUT YOU“.
. The NSS symbol is based on the “Rath” wheel of the Konark Sun Temple situated in Odisha.
. The navy blue colour indicates the cosmos of which the NSS is a tiny part, ready to contribute its share for the welfare of mankind.
. The red colour in the badge indicates that the NSS volunteers are full of blood i.e. lively, active, energetic and full of high spirit.
. The giant wheels of the Sun Temple portray the cycle of creation, preservation and release, and signify the movement in life across time and space.
More About NSS
- NSS is a voluntary scheme. NSS scheme starts from 11th Standard onwards.
- The students from foreign countries studying in Indian universities can also join NSS so that they may share the experiences of national reconstruction and community work.
- NCC cadets will not be allowed to join NSS. Similarly NSS volunteers will not participate in NCC or any other youth organisation as long as they are in NSS.
- An NSS volunteer needs to devote a total of 240 hours social service in two years duration. Every year, a NSS volunteer has to devote 20 hrs. of orientation and 100 hrs. of community service.
