“Every Act Done Beyond Self-Interest Is a Service and a Step Towards Nation-Building” – CM Sai

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Raipur, 24 September
Any action done selflessly, rising above personal interests, is not just a service but a contribution to the building of the nation. Volunteers of the National Service Scheme (NSS) are playing a vital role in this nation-building process. This was stated by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai while addressing the state-level Foundation Day and Felicitation Ceremony of the NSS held at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in the capital, Raipur.
The Chief Minister noted that over 4 lakh students across India are currently engaged as NSS volunteers, with more than 1 lakh active participants in Chhattisgarh alone, which is a matter of pride for the state. He congratulated all the volunteers being recognized for their outstanding service.
“During the freedom struggle, participating in the independence movement was considered an act of nation-building. Today, when the country is independent, nation-building means contributing to its social, economic, and cultural development. NSS volunteers are making valuable contributions in this direction,” said the CM.
He explained the true meaning of national service to the volunteers:
“Planting a tree is national service. Helping someone reach the hospital is national service. Assisting someone financially, or helping someone learn to read and write—each act done beyond selfish motives is a form of service and nation-building.”
He urged the NSS volunteers to continue their selfless work and promote education, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey of learning.
Government Committed to Youth Employment
Chief Minister Sai also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing employment to the youth.
He highlighted that under the new industrial policy, entrepreneurs offering jobs are being provided support and incentives. In the past 10 months, the state has received investment proposals worth ₹7.5 lakh crore, which will create significant employment opportunities.
Minister of Higher Education Praises NSS Volunteers
Higher Education Minister Tankram Verma, who was also present, emphasized that service is not just about helping others—it also shapes character, thinking, and a sense of responsibility.
He said the energy and enthusiasm of the youth are the true capital of society and the nation. The dedication of NSS volunteers reflects the strength of our youth.
He praised their active role in the success of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) and acknowledged their significant contributions to disaster management, environmental protection, and public health in both urban and rural areas.
Publications and Awards
On this occasion, Chief Minister Sai unveiled the NSS magazine ‘Samarpan’ and launched the poster for the “Viksit Bharat Quiz” program.
He also honoured institutions, officials, and volunteers for their exceptional work under the NSS program.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by:
Rajeev Agrawal, Chairman, CSIDC
Dr. S. Bharathidasan, Secretary, Higher Education
Santosh Kumar Dewangan, Commissioner, Higher Education
Dr. Ashok Kumar Shroti, NSS Deputy Program Advisor
Dr. Neeta Bajpai, State NSS Officer
NSS program coordinators from all districts and a large number of volunteers from across the state.