New Delhi: CBSE has informed its affiliated schools that they can now establish National Service Scheme (NSS) units under the Self-Financing Unit (SFU) scheme. The initiative aims to encourage students to participate in community service and develop leadership skills.
The information was shared through CBSE Circular No. Acad-51/2026, issued on 30 July 2026.
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a flagship youth development programme launched in 1969 with the objective of “Education through Service.” According to CBSE, the programme has benefited more than 8.4 crore students by promoting leadership, empathy, social responsibility, and community engagement.
CBSE said that the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is expanding the MY Bharat NSS programme through the Self-Financing Unit (SFU) model. This allows schools and colleges to set up their own NSS units, even if they do not receive government funding.
Under the SFU model, each NSS unit can usually have 50 to 100 student volunteers. Students will get opportunities to participate in community service projects, national integration programmes, and other social initiatives.
CBSE has also shared the operational guidelines, proposal format, and brochure for schools interested in establishing an NSS Self-Financing Unit.
Schools can refer to these documents and submit their proposals if they wish to start an NSS unit on their campus.