You all must be more familiar with NCC than NSS. And for most of the students who know about NSS they think it’s only about cleaning with the help of a broom. But in reality it’s much more than that. It gives you a place where you can be yourself without worrying about judgement.Â
When I joined NSS, my thoughts were also similar but as I moved forward, I participated in events, attended a camp, volunteered and then I got to know much more about it.Â
The motto of NSS states “NOT ME BUT YOU”. Here we don’t think about ourselves first but about other people and that’s why it also comes in the field of social work. As this generation is moving ahead, we don’t get to see many people stepping forward and helping other people and thinking about their well-being. But here we do. We all do.Â
According to current data there are over 3.8 million (38 lakh) student volunteers which operate under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. This central sector scheme engages students in community service through 39,695 units across the country, focusing on social welfare and national development.
Most of the students join NSS for a certificate, but as they become a part of it, even after getting a certificate they stay connected and help people. It is a platform that transforms individuals by connecting them with society and teaching the true meaning of selfless service. It builds character, leadership, and a sense of responsibility towards the community.
We actively participate in cleanliness drives, awareness campaigns, plantation programs, and help underprivileged people. When I visited rural areas and interacted with villagers, it gave me a new perspective on life. Lucknow is a beautiful city but it also has another part which is neglected. You don’t want to be there because well it looks extremely bad and smells even worse. But people actually live there who have nowhere to go and nothing to do. Just trying to survive as much as they can. These are the people we need to help and stand up for. They have the right to live peacefully in a better environment too.Â
Program officers often organize programs on education, health, hygiene, and environmental protection. And after volunteering in that, it made me feel like I was contributing to society in a meaningful way.
One of the most beautiful things I witnessed during the camp was personal growth, not just mine, but of others as well. And that moment stayed with me. On the very first day, I saw many students who were hesitant and afraid to speak on stage. However, as the days passed, the same individuals gained confidence, found their voice, and spoke fearlessly in front of everyone.
During my second camp a few days ago, we visited the Gomti River, where we came across a remarkable initiative by the Parshad of Mankameshwar ward. Every Sunday, he and his team of dedicated individuals gather to clean the river, continuing this effort consistently for over 8 years. And seeing the amount of waste they collected in a few hours only and the fact they find much more every week,I also observed a concerning reality. In the name of faith, many people throw waste into the river such as flowers, worship materials, plastic bags, and even idols after rituals. While these items are offered with devotion, they ultimately contribute to pollution and harm the very river that they consider sacred.Â
True respect for nature and faith should include protecting and preserving what we consider holy. It taught me that small, mindful actions like proper disposal of ritual materials can make a big difference.Â
Apart from social service, the camp was full of engaging and skill-building activities. We learned self-defense techniques, participated in parade training, and explored creative activities like pottery and group painting.
I learned teamwork, leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Working in different situations helped me become more confident and independent.
It also taught me empathy and the importance of helping others without expecting anything in return.
