How Are TN Polytechnic Colleges Leading in National Service Scheme Enrolment?
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Synopsis
Discover how Tamil Nadu's polytechnic colleges have excelled in NSS enrolment, setting a national record. Learn about the impact of youth volunteers and community service initiatives on shaping responsible citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu leads the nation in NSS enrolment.
- Over 45,500 students are registered as NSS volunteers.
- NSS promotes community service and nation-building activities.
- Red Ribbon Clubs raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in polytechnic colleges.
- Service learning complements technical education.
Chennai, Nov 4 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu’s polytechnic colleges have reached an impressive milestone, achieving the highest enrolment in the National Service Scheme (NSS) among students nationwide.
Officials credit this success to the enthusiastic participation of youth volunteers and the steadfast support from the Directorate of Technical Education (DOTE).
The NSS, a prominent initiative by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, encourages students to engage in various community service and nation-building activities. Launched in Tamil Nadu’s polytechnic institutions during the academic year 1983–84, the programme began with a humble beginning of merely 10 colleges and 1,000 student volunteers. Over the years, it has seen remarkable growth.
“Currently, there are NSS units operating in 335 polytechnic colleges, boasting 45,500 registered volunteers—the highest among polytechnic institutions in India,” revealed a senior DOTE official.
From 2000 to 2004, NSS participation surged, with 20,765 students enrolling in the initiative. The official highlighted that “in just the last five years (2019–2025), over 45,000 students have joined, reflecting a renewed passion among the youth to give back to society.”
According to him, the NSS continues to serve as “a transformative platform for developing character and behavior, shaping students into socially responsible citizens.”
The NSS framework in Tamil Nadu has also played a key role in the establishment of Red Ribbon Clubs (RRCs) across 250 polytechnic colleges, raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and related health issues.
Over the years, the state has garnered multiple national accolades for its effective execution of the scheme and for merging service with skill-based learning.
NSS volunteers in Tamil Nadu participate in a diverse array of community-driven programmes—tree planting initiatives, health education drives, disaster management workshops, road safety and first aid training, women’s self-employment projects, and technical training for rural youth.
“More than 90 percent of these activities have met their intended objectives due to the active involvement and dedication of NSS volunteers,” the official noted.
From cultivating leadership skills to promoting empathy and civic consciousness, Tamil Nadu’s polytechnic students consistently demonstrate that service learning can coexist with technical education—creating not just skilled professionals but also compassionate citizens.
Point of View
It's evident that Tamil Nadu’s commitment to the National Service Scheme not only enhances student engagement but also fosters a culture of social responsibility. This initiative exemplifies how educational institutions can contribute positively to society, creating a robust framework for youth involvement in nation-building efforts.
NationPress
28/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Service Scheme?
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a program initiated by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports that encourages students to participate in community service and activities aimed at nation-building.
How many polytechnic colleges in Tamil Nadu participate in NSS?
Currently, there are 335 polytechnic colleges in Tamil Nadu that have active NSS units.
What kind of activities do NSS volunteers engage in?
NSS volunteers participate in activities such as tree plantation drives, health education campaigns, disaster management workshops, and technical training for rural youth.
What impact does NSS have on students?
NSS helps in shaping students into socially responsible citizens, developing their leadership qualities, empathy, and civic awareness.
Has Tamil Nadu received any awards for NSS?
Yes, Tamil Nadu has received multiple national awards for the effective implementation of the NSS scheme and integrating service with skill-based learning.
