Highlighting the contributions of National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced an increased grant of Rs 50 lakh to the NSS state unit for organising various programs.

He made this announcement during the State Level Foundation Day and Honor Ceremony of NSS at Krishak Auditorium, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya.

Appreciating the volunteers, Sai remarked that NSS has played a significant role in nation-building, awakening the spirit of service in both rural and urban areas.

“NSS volunteers have set an example by contributing to education, health, the Swachhata Abhiyan, and literacy campaigns,” he said, urging them to take an active role in encouraging youth de-addiction efforts.

In recognition of their contributions, the funding for NSS programs has been increased from Rs 13 lakh to Rs 50 lakh, ensuring that more initiatives can be rolled out across the state.

Chief Minister Sai also honoured outstanding volunteers, program officers, and institutions for their service work, while releasing the NSS magazine Samarpan. He administered the cleanliness oath to the attendees.

Sai reminded everyone that NSS was started on Mahatma Gandhi's 100th birth anniversary and paid tribute to former President APJ Abdul Kalam, who advocated living in a way that would make future generations proud.

He expressed pride in the eight NSS girl students from Chhattisgarh who represented the state at the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path, celebrating Nari Shakti.

The Chief Minister emphasised the government’s efforts for youth empowerment, providing employment-oriented education, skill training, and interest-free loans under Mukhyamantri Uchchaar Shiksha Yojana.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, schemes like Chhattisgarh Udyam Kranti Yojana offer loans with a 50% subsidy. He also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Internship Scheme, aimed at providing one crore youth opportunities in top companies with allowances.

Sai quoted Swami Vivekananda, saying, “If I get 100 energetic youth, I can change the condition and direction of the country.”

With over 1.06 lakh NSS volunteers in Chhattisgarh, Sai expressed confidence in achieving the goal of a developed India and Chhattisgarh.

Secretary of Higher Education, Prasanna R, stated that NSS has prepared over 8 lakh young volunteers in the state, with more than 1 lakh currently active. The ceremony concluded with a large gathering of NSS students and officers from across the state.