1. Introduction

The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a Central Sector Scheme of the Government of India, launched in 1969, the birth centenary year of Mahatma GandhiIt provides students an opportunity to participate in social service activities and develop their personality through community service. NSS volunteers work for social upliftment, literacy, health, environment, disaster relief, and nation-building activities.

2. Establishment

• Foundation Year: 24 September 1969.
• Headquarters: New Delhi

Introduced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. Started in 37 universities with about 40,000 students, and now covers millions of students across India.

3. Objective

• To develop the personality and character of students through voluntary community service.
• To create social awareness and a sense of responsibility among youth.
• To promote national integration and unity.
• To instill values of selfless service, discipline, and leadership.

4. Training and Activities

• Activities (120 hours per year):Campus cleaning, blood donation camps, awareness rallies, literacy drives, health check-ups, etc.
• Special Camping Activities (7 days):Organized in rural/slum areas focusing on themes like “Healthy Youth for Healthy India”, environment protection, and rural development.
• Adventure & National Integration CampsTrekking, mountaineering, cultural exchange, etc.
• Disaster Relief WorkAssistance during floods, earthquakes, cyclones, and pandemics.

5. Benefits

• Personality development and leadership skills.
• Opportunity to serve society and develop empathy.
• Improves communication, teamwork, and management skills.
• Special weightage in government jobs, UPSC, and state PSC exams in some states.
• Helps in career and higher education admissions.

Motto of NSS: "Not Me, But You"

7. Types of NSS :

• University/College level NSS units (for higher education students).
• Senior Secondary School level NSS units (for class 11 & 12 students).
• Special Camps & Adventure Camps under NSS.

8. Types of NSS Certificates

• Certificate 'A': After completing 1 year (120 hours).
• Certificate 'B': After completing 2 years (240 hours + 1 special camp).
• Certificate 'C':For outstanding volunteers (2 years + special recognition by NSS unit).

9. Eligibility

• Age Limit:
  • 16 to 30 years.
• Educational Qualification:
  • Students studying in schools, colleges, and universities recognized by the government.
  • Must be willing to serve society for at least 2 years (120 hrs per year + 1 special camp).

10. Benefits of Joining NSS

• Builds confidence, discipline, and social responsibility.
• Increases chances of scholarships, fellowships, and government jobs.
• Preference in higher education admissions in some institutions.
• Opportunities to attend national and international youth programs.
• Networking with socially active people and organizations.

11. Process of Joining NSS

1. Check if your school/college/university has an NSS unit.
2. Fill out the NSS volunteer registration form available with the NSS Program Officer.
3. Get enrolled officially in the NSS unit of your institution.
4. Start participating in regular activities and special camps.