National Service Scheme (NSS): Building Responsible Citizens Among University Students

Ms.Harsha Sharma
Assistant Professor
Faculty of Education, Kalinga University, Raipur
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a youth program aimed at fostering social responsibility and civic engagement among students. With the motto “Not Me, But You,” NSS encourages university students to participate in community service, helping them develop leadership, empathy, and practical skills that go beyond the classroom.
Key Benefits of NSS for Students
Leadership Skills: Organizing events and leading projects teaches students decision-making, confidence, and organization (Bordoloi & Sharma, 2020).
Empathy and Social Awareness: Working with diverse communities builds compassion and a deeper understanding of societal issues (Singh, 2019).
Teamwork: NSS activities involve group efforts, enhancing collaboration and communication skills (National Service Scheme, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, 2022).
Problem-Solving: Real-world challenges in NSS projects improve adaptability and critical thinking (Rajesh & Joseph, 2021).
Civic Responsibility: Students gain a lifelong sense of duty and commitment to society (Kaur, 2018).
Typical NSS Activities
Health Camps: Organizing health check-ups and hygiene programs (Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, 2021).
Environmental Campaigns: Tree planting and cleanup drives (Sharma & Kumar, 2020).
Literacy Programs: Teaching basic literacy in underserved areas (National Service Scheme Annual Report, 2022).
Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities on issues like gender equality and mental health (Saini, 2019).
Through NSS, university students not only contribute positively to society but also develop skills and values that prepare them to be responsible, engaged citizens.

References
Bordoloi, T., & Sharma, R. (2020). Impact of NSS Participation on Leadership Development in University Students. Journal of Youth Studies, 12(3), 120-135.
Kaur, M. (2018). Fostering Civic Responsibility in Youth through NSS Initiatives. Indian Journal of Social Work, 45(2), 78-86.
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India. (2021). National Service Scheme (NSS) Annual Report 2020-2021. Retrieved from https://www.yas.gov.in
National Service Scheme, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. (2022). Role of NSS in Youth Empowerment and Civic Engagement. Retrieved from https://nss.gov.in
Rajesh, P., & Joseph, A. (2021). Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills through NSS Activities. Indian Journal of Educational Development, 19(1), 67-73.
Saini, A. (2019). Social Awareness Campaigns and Their Impact on NSS Volunteers. Youth Development Review, 7(4), 134-142.