National Service Scheme

The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a public service program run by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. It was launched in 1969, the centenary year of Mahatma Gandhi, to promote community service among students and youth.

The NSS aims to develop the personality of students through community service. Its key objectives are:

1. Understand the community in which they work.
2. Understand themselves in relation to the community.
3. Identify the needs and problems of the community and involve themselves in problem-solving.
4. Develop a sense of social and civic responsibility.
5. Use their knowledge to find practical solutions to individual and community issues.
6. Develop group-living skills and share responsibilities.
7. Gain skills in mobilising community participation.
8. Acquire leadership qualities and democratic attitudes.
9. Build capacity to face emergencies and natural disasters.
10. Promote national integration and social harmony.

All youth volunteers who choose to serve the nation through NSS-led community service wear the NSS badge with pride and a strong sense of responsibility to help those in need.

Symbolism of the NSS Badge:

• Konark Wheel

→  The badge features the Konark wheel with 8 bars, symbolizing the 24 hours of the day.
→  It reminds volunteers to be ready for national service round the clock.

• Red Colour

→  Represents the energy and spirit of the NSS volunteers.
→  Signifies the enthusiasm and passion with which they serve society.

• Blue Colour

→  Symbolizes the cosmos, reflecting that the NSS is a small part of the universe.
→  Shows the readiness of NSS to contribute towards the welfare of humanity.

The motto of NSS is "NOT ME BUT YOU". It underlines that the welfare of an individual is ultimately dependent on the welfare of the society as a whole. This expresses the essence of democratic living and upholds the need of selfness service and appreciation of the other man's point of view and also consideration for fellow human beings.