National Service Scheme (NSS) – Important Notes for Quiz
Philosophy of NSS
• Based on the idea of selfless service and Gandhian principles.
• Encourages students to develop social responsibility and work for community development.
• Education should prepare youth for service to the nation.
History and Growth of NSS
• Mahatma Gandhi inspired the idea of social responsibility among students.
• 1950: CABE recommended voluntary social service by students.
• 1952: First Five-Year Plan emphasized social and labour service.
• 1958: Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru proposed social service before graduation.
• 1959: Dr. C.D. Deshmukh Committee suggested one-year national service (not implemented).
• 1960: Prof. K.G. Saiyidain report – ‘National Service for the Youth’.
• 1964–66: Dr. D.S. Kothari Commission – social service at all stages of education.
• 1967: Proposal for NSS as alternative to NCC.
• 1969: NSS launched by Dr. V.K.R.V. Rao in 37 universities during Gandhi Centenary Year.
Key Features
• Organised by students; teachers also participate.
• Develops leadership, teamwork, and national spirit.
• Financial sharing ratio: 7:5 (Centre:State).
• Rs. 120 per student per year (70 Central + 50 State).
• Extended to all states, universities, and +2 levels.
Aims and Objectives of NSS
Main Objective: Development of personality of students through community service.
• Understand the community and themselves.
• Identify community needs and help solve problems.
• Develop social and civic responsibility.
• Apply knowledge for practical solutions.
• Develop leadership, group living, and democratic attitude.
• Promote national integration and social harmony.
Motto of NSS
“Not Me, But You” – reflects selflessness and the belief that individual welfare depends on the
welfare of society.
Logo and Badge of NSS
• Logo based on Konark Sun Temple Wheel symbolizing continuity and change.
• 8 bars represent 24 hours; Red = energy, Blue = universe.
NSS Day
• Celebrated on 24th September every year, marking the launch in 1969.
Special Camping Themes
Year/Period Theme
1973 Youth Against Famine
1974–75 Youth Against Dirt & Disease
1985–93 Youth for National Development & Literacy
1993–95 Youth for National Integration & Communal Harmony
1995–96 onward Youth for Sustainable Development
1991–92 onward Universities Talk AIDS (UTA)
Community Service Activities
• Adoption of villages for development.
• Health and sanitation drives, medical camps, immunization.
• Adult education, blood donation, disaster relief.
• Campaigns for social evils eradication, democracy, secularism, and scientific temper.
Quick Summary
• Founded: 24 Sept 1969 (Dr. V.K.R.V. Rao)
• Motto: Not Me, But You
• Logo: Konark Wheel (Continuity & Change)
• Objective: Develop personality through community service
• Funding Ratio: 7:5 (Centre:State)
• Inspired by: Mahatma Gandhi
• Song: We Shall Overcome