National Service Scheme: (NSS)

The programme aims to inculcate social welfare in students, and to provide service to society without bias. NSS volunteers work to ensure that everyone who is needy gets help to enhance their standard of living and lead a life of dignity. In doing so, volunteers learn from people in villages how to lead a good life despite a scarcity of resources. it also provides help in natural and man-made disasters by providing food,clothing and first aid to the disaster victims.

Objectives

1. understand the community in which they work;
2. understand themselves in relation to their community;
3. identify the needs and problems of the community and involve them in problem solving process;
4. develop among themselves a sense of social and civic responsibility;
5. utilize their knowledge in finding practical solution to individual and community problems;
6. develop competence required for group living and sharing of responsibilities;
7. gain skills in mobilizing community participation;
8. acquire leadership qualities and democratic attitude;
9. develop capacity to meet emergencies and natural disasters
10. practice national integration and social harmony.

Organisation

Most government and government-aided institutions (schools and colleges) have volunteer NSS units, and private institutions are encouraged to have NSS volunteers. A unit typically comprises 100 students. They are managed internally by a responsible party from the school (or college), who reports to the regional NSS coordinator. Most institutions do not have a separate uniform for NSS volunteers.

Annual NSS Camps

Camps are held annually, funded by the government of India, and are usually located in a rural village or a city suburb. Volunteers may be involved in such activities as:

1. Cleaning
2. Afforestation
3. Stage shows or a procession creating awareness of such issues as social problems, education and cleanliness
4. Awareness Rallies
5. Inviting doctors for health camps

There are no predefined or preassigned tasks; it is left up to the volunteers to provide service in any way that is feasible.

Typical Projects

1. Adoption of villages
2. Construction and repair of roads
3. Afforestation
4. Literacy classes
5. Water conservation
6. Plastics eradication
7. Eye donation
8. Tree plantation
9. Blood donation