The President of India recently bestowed the National Service Scheme (NSS) Awards for 2019-20, recognizing key contributors in several categories. These awards underline a commitment to voluntary community service and fostering personality development among the nation’s youth. This article will outline facts about the NSS Awards, their objectives, and the National Service Scheme.
About The NSS Awards
The National Service Scheme Awards were first introduced in 1993-94 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. These awards were launched to celebrate the Silver Jubilee Year of the National Service Scheme. A total of 42 awardees were recognized under the NSS Awards 2019-20 spanning various categories. These included University or (+2) Councils, NSS Units, and their program officers, as well as NSS volunteers.
These accolades aim to acknowledge and reward exceptional contributions towards community service. These contributions are made by universities or colleges, councils, senior secondary, NSS units and programme officers, and NSS volunteers. The ultimate aim is to further encourage the promotion of the NSS across the country.
Objectives Of Awards
The primary goal of these awards is to inspire young NSS student volunteers to enhance their personalities through active community service. Additional objectives include motivating NSS volunteers to continue their dedication towards community work and encouraging Program Officers and Program Coordinators of NSS to cater to the needs of the organization through the help of NSS volunteers.
About The National Service Scheme (NSS)
Launched in 1969, the National Service Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme that aims to cultivate character and personality among the student youth via voluntary community service. The guiding principles of the NSS draw inspiration from the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, encapsulated in its motto “Not Me, But You.”
Role Of NSS Volunteers
Volunteers affiliated with the National Service Scheme take on the responsibility of addressing socially relevant issues through their participation in routine and special camping activities. These initiatives cover a wide array of subjects such as literacy and education, health, family welfare, and nutrition.
In addition, NSS volunteers proactively engage in environment conservation, social service programmes, initiatives for women’s empowerment, and programs related to economic development activities. Moreover, they play a crucial role in rescue and relief operations during natural calamities and other emergencies.
Although the President of India conferring the National Service Scheme Awards was recently in news, the impact of these awards and the work of the NSS is far-reaching and continues to make a significant contribution to society.