Topics Covered:
- Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
National Service Scheme
What to study?
- For Prelims: What is NSS?
- For Mains: Significance and the need for NSS.
About National Service Scheme (NSS):
It is an Indian government-sponsored public service program conducted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports of the Government of India.
The scheme was launched in Gandhiji’s Centenary year in 1969.
Aim: The University Grants Commission (UGC) headed by Dr. Radhakrishnan recommended introduction of national service in the academic institutions on a voluntary basis with a view to developing healthy contacts between the students and teachers on the one hand and establishing a constructive linkage between the campus and the community on the other hand.
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 solution 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.
- Practice national integration and social harmony.
Mains Question: Discuss the role of National Service Scheme (NSS) in developing the personality and leadership qualities of the youth and in engaging them in nation-building activities.
