"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 as a whole.
The symbol of the National Service Scheme is based on the 'RATH' wheel of the Konark Sun Temple situated in Orissa. 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. It stands for continuity as well as change and implies the continuous striving of NSS for social transformation and upliftment.
The NSS symbol is embossed on the NSS badge. The NSS volunteers wear it while undertaking any program of community service. The Konark Wheel in the symbol has eight bars which represent the 24 hours of the day. Hence, the badge reminds the wearer to be in readiness for service to the nation round the clock (24 hours). The Red color in the badge indicates that the NSS volunteers are full of vitality, energy, and high spirit, while the Navy Blue color signifies the cosmos, of which NSS is a tiny part, ready to contribute its share for the welfare of mankind.
NSS was formally launched on 24th September, 1969, the birth centenary year of the Father of the Nation. Therefore, 24th September is celebrated every year as NSS Day with appropriate programs and activities.