NATIONAL SERVICE SCHEME [NSS]
NSS PROGRAM OFFICER
DR SAMIR MONDAL
DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is an Indian government public service program conducted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. It was launched in 1969, during Gandhiji's Centenary year, with the goal of developing students' personalities through community service. NSS is a voluntary association that operates in colleges, universities, and at the +2 level, focusing on building a connection between campuses and communities, particularly in rural areas.
The concept of national service in academic institutions was recommended post-independence by the University Grants Commission, headed by S. Radhakrishnan. The idea was supported by the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) in January 1950, advocating for voluntary manual work by students and teachers. The first Five-Year Plan in 1952 emphasized the need for social and labor service by Indian students. In 1958, Jawaharlal Nehru highlighted the importance of social service for graduation, prompting the Ministry of Education to develop a national service scheme.
The NSS symbol is derived from the Rath Wheel of the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. The wheel signifies the cycle of creation, preservation, and release, representing movement and change. The eight bars of the wheel symbolize 24 hours of a day, while the red color indicates the vitality and high spirit of the volunteers. The navy blue color signifies the cosmos, reflecting NSS's role in contributing to the welfare of humanity.
NSS aims to instill social welfare values in students and encourage service to society without bias. Volunteers work to assist the needy, enhance living standards, and provide dignity. Through their service, volunteers learn valuable life lessons from rural communities. NSS also plays a crucial role in disaster relief, offering food, clothing, and first aid to victims.
NSS activities are divided into two categories: Regular Activities (120 hours) and Annual Special Camps (120 hours). Volunteers who complete at least 240 hours of service over two years receive a certificate from their university, signed by the Vice-Chancellor and Programme Coordinator.
Special Camps are held annually, funded by the government, typically in rural or suburban areas. These camps, lasting a week to 10 days, involve volunteers in various service activities. The tasks are not predefined, allowing volunteers to choose feasible ways to serve the community.
The NSS program plays a pivotal role in shaping socially responsible citizens. By engaging in various community service activities, NSS volunteers contribute to societal development and gain practical experience, fostering a spirit of service and empathy.
| SL NO | SESSION | VIEW/DOWNLOAD |
| 1 | NSS NACC 2018-2019 | View |
| 2 | NSS NACC 2019-2020 | View |
| 3 | NSS NACC 2020-2021 | View |
| 4 | NSS NACC 2021-2022 | View |
| 5 | NSS NACC 2022-2023 | View |
