National Service Scheme (NSS)
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a flagship youth development programme of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India. It was launched in 1969 during the birth centenary year of Mahatma Gandhi with the objective of developing the personality and character of students through voluntary community service.
The overall aim of National Service Scheme is to give an extension dimension to the higher education system and orient the student youth to community service while they are studying in educational institution. The reason for the formulation of this objective is the general realization that the college and +2 level students tend to get alienated from the village/slum masses which constitute the majority of the population of the country. The educated youth who are expected to take the reins of administration in future are found to be unaware of the problems of the village/slum community and in certain cases are indifferent towards their needs and problems.
Therefore, it is necessary to arouse the social conscience of the students, and to provide them an opportunity to work with the people in the villages and slums. It is felt that their interaction with the common villagers and slum dwellers will expose them to the realities of life and bring about a change in their social perception.
The overall aim of National Service Scheme is to give an extension dimension to the higher education system and orient the student youth to community service while they are studying in educational institution. The reason for the formulation of this objective is the general realization that the college and +2 level students tend to get alienated from the village/slum masses which constitute the majority of the population of the country. The educated youth who are expected to take the reins of administration in future are found to be unaware of the problems of the village/slum community and in certain cases are indifferent towards their needs and problems.
Therefore, it is necessary to arouse the social conscience of the students, and to provide them an opportunity to work with the people in the villages and slums. It is felt that their interaction with the common villagers and slum dwellers will expose them to the realities of life and bring about a change in their social perception.
NSS Motto – "Not Me, But You"
This reflects the essence of democratic living and upholds the need for selfless service and appreciation of the other person's point of view and also to show consideration for fellow human beings. It underlines that the welfare of an individual is ultimately dependent on the welfare of society on the whole. Therefore, it should be the aim of the NSS to demonstrate this motto in its day-to-day programme.NSS Symbol
The symbol of the National Service Scheme is based on the 'Rath' wheel of the Konark Sun Temple situated in Odisha. These giant wheels of the Sun Temple portray the cycle of creation, preservation and release, and signify the movement in life across time and space. The design of the symbol, a simplified form of the Sun-chariot wheel primarily depicts movement. The wheel signifies the progressive cycle of life. It stands for continuity as well as change and implies the continuous striving of NSS for social transformation and upliftment.The broad objectives of NSS are to:
- understand the community in which they work
- understand themselves in relation to their community;
- identify the needs and problems of the community and involve them in problem-solving process;
- develop among themselves a sense of social and civic responsibility;
- utilize their knowledge in finding practical solutions to individual and community problems;
- develop competence required for group living and sharing of responsibilities;
- gain skills in mobilizing community participation;
- acquire leadership qualities and democratic attitude;
- develop capacity to meet emergencies and natural disasters; and
- practice national integration and social harmony.
Inspired by the Jesuit ideals of cura personalis (care for the whole person), magis (the pursuit of excellence), and a steadfast commitment to service, St. Xavier's University, Kolkata strives to nurture individuals who are academically accomplished, socially conscious, and dedicated to the common good. As one of the University's key outreach initiatives, the NSS Unit reflects the Jesuit mission of 'Forming Men & Women for Others' by empowering young people to serve with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
In keeping with this vision, the University established its National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit in 2026 under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India. The NSS Unit, guided by its motto "Not Me, But You," offers students a unique opportunity to extend their learning beyond the classroom by actively engaging with communities and addressing pressing social concerns.
In keeping with this vision, the University established its National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit in 2026 under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India. The NSS Unit, guided by its motto "Not Me, But You," offers students a unique opportunity to extend their learning beyond the classroom by actively engaging with communities and addressing pressing social concerns.
Joining the National Service Scheme is an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful contribution to society. Through hands-on community engagement, volunteers develop essential life skills, broaden their perspectives, and gain experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
NSS volunteers actively engage in a variety of community service and developmental initiatives that promote social responsibility, civic engagement, and sustainable development. Major activities include:
NSS volunteers actively engage in a variety of community service and developmental initiatives that promote social responsibility, civic engagement, and sustainable development. Major activities include:
- Environmental conservation, tree plantation, and cleanliness drives
- Health, hygiene, blood donation, and awareness campaigns
- Literacy, digital literacy, and educational outreach
- Rural development and community welfare programmes
- Women empowerment and gender sensitisation initiatives
- Road safety, voter awareness, and disaster preparedness
- Youth leadership and community engagement activities
Opportunities Beyond Campus
Outstanding volunteers may be nominated for various state and national-level programmes, including:- National Integration Camps
- Republic Day Parade Camp
- Adventure Camps
- National Youth Festivals
- State and National NSS Camps
- Leadership Development Programmes
- Youth Exchange Programmes (subject to selection)
REGISTRATION THROUGH THE MyBharat PORTAL
All NSS Volunteers are required to register on the MyBharat Portal, the Government of India's youth engagement platform.Step 1: Create Your Account
- Visit https://mybharat.gov.in
- Click Register.
- Sign up using your mobile number.
- Fill in your personal details.
- In the category 'Youth Type' select the NSS option
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Highest Qualification: Bachelor Degree / Master Degree
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University District: North 24 Parganas
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Institution: St. Xavier's University, Kolkata - Submit the Registration.
- Log in to your MyBharat account
- Go to 'My Profile'
- Complete filling in your profile.
- Provide your academic details (UID is your University Registration Number).
- Submit after completion.
NSS CERTIFICATE
Students who successfully complete 240 hours of community service over two years and participate in regular NSS activities, including special camps where applicable, become eligible for an NSS Certificate issued as per the guidelines of the National Service Scheme.The certificate serves as official recognition of a student's commitment to community service, leadership, and civic responsibility.
Dr. Srenwantee Bhattacharjee
Assistant Professor in Social Work
Program Coordinator, NSS (SXUK)
Email: s.bhattacharjee@sxuk.edu.in
Mr. Paritosh Majumdar
Deputy Director of Centre for Social Outreach Programme
Program Officer, NSS (SXUK)
Email: dydirector.csop@sxuk.edu.in
NSS Office
Ground Floor (Opposite to Girls' Hostel).
St. Xavier's University, Kolkata.
Action Area- III B, New Town. Kolkata-700160
Assistant Professor in Social Work
Program Coordinator, NSS (SXUK)
Email: s.bhattacharjee@sxuk.edu.in
Mr. Paritosh Majumdar
Deputy Director of Centre for Social Outreach Programme
Program Officer, NSS (SXUK)
Email: dydirector.csop@sxuk.edu.in
NSS Office
Ground Floor (Opposite to Girls' Hostel).
St. Xavier's University, Kolkata.
Action Area- III B, New Town. Kolkata-700160