National Service Scheme
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a community service program open to students at the +2, graduate, postgraduate, and technical levels across India, with over 7.4 crore students having participated since 1969. Students volunteer for health, education, environment, and social welfare activities while building leadership skills. To join, contact the NSS Programme Officer at your school or college.
About This Scheme
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a community service program open to students at the +2, graduate, postgraduate, and technical levels across India, with over 7.4 crore students having participated since 1969. Students volunteer for health, education, environment, and social welfare activities while building leadership skills. To join, contact the NSS Programme Officer at your school or college.
Full official description
The "National Service Scheme" (NSS) is a Central Sector Scheme of the Government of India launched in 1969. It provides opportunities to students of senior secondary schools (+2 level), colleges, universities, and technical institutions to participate in government-led community service activities.
Under NSS, student volunteers engage in regular community service, special camps, national-level programmes, and awareness activities related to health, education, environment, national integration, disaster response, and social welfare. The scheme follows the principle of “Education through Service”, enabling students to learn by serving society. Since its inception, NSS has benefitted more than 7.4 crore students across India.
Benefits
- Access to community service camps, national events, and youth festivals
- Develops leadership, confidence, and civic responsibility
- Outstanding NSS volunteers are eligible for annual National Service Scheme Awards:
- 30 Best NSS Volunteers: ₹1,00,000 each
- 10 Best NSS Units: ₹2,00,000 each
- 10 Best Programme Officers: ₹1,50,000 each
- Best University / +2 Council: ₹5,00,000
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Must be a student in Class 11 or 12 (+2), or enrolled in a graduate, postgraduate, or technical program
- Must study in a school, college, or university that has an NSS Unit
- Must be willing to participate in community service activities and camps
- Must complete the prescribed service hours as per NSS guidelines
How to Apply
Note:
The applicant student shall contact the NSS Programme Officer of the concerned school/college/university and submit the prescribed NSS enrollment form through the institution. Selection shall be based on availability of seats and willingness to serve. After enrollment, the student shall attend orientation and participate in NSS activities and camps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Service Scheme (NSS)?
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a Central Sector Scheme of the Government of India under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. It aims to develop the personality and character of students through voluntary community service, following the principle of “Education through Service.”
When was NSS launched?
NSS was launched in 1969, the birth centenary year of Mahatma Gandhi.
Who can join NSS?
Students from the following categories are eligible:
Class 11th and 12th (+2 level)
Graduate and Post-Graduate students
Students of technical institutions, colleges, and universities
What is the motto of NSS?
The motto of NSS is “NOT ME BUT YOU”, which reflects the spirit of selfless service and concern for the welfare of society.
How many students have benefitted from NSS so far?
Since its inception, over 7.4 crore students have benefitted from NSS across India.
What is a National Integration Camp (NIC)?
NIC is a 7-day residential camp held annually in different parts of India, involving 200 NSS volunteers, focusing on cultural exchange, unity, and national pride.
What is the NSS Republic Day Parade Camp?
It is a prestigious camp held in New Delhi from 1st–31st January, where selected NSS volunteers participate in:
Republic Day Parade at Rajpath
Cultural activities
National integration events
What is the highest award amount under NSS?
The highest award is:
₹5,00,000 for the best University / +2 Council
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Student Identity Card
- Admission Proof / Bonafide Certificate from institution
- Aadhaar Card (or any valid ID proof)
- Passport-size Photograph
- NSS Enrollment/Application Form (as prescribed by the institution)