Shillong, Sep 25: The National Service Scheme (NSS) cell at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Shillong celebrated the 57th NSS Foundation Day yesterday.
The programme was attended by Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang as the chief guest. The event began with a welcome address by MM Khymdeit, NSS programme coordinator at NEHU.
Addressing the gathering, FM Rumnong, Deputy Director of Higher and Technical Education and State NSS Officer (SNO), highlighted the significant role of the NSS in youth development and nation-building.
Marbaniang appreciated the selfless service rendered by NSS volunteers and urged the youth to uphold the NSS motto, “Not Me But You”. He emphasised that the motto reflects the spirit of selflessness, collective responsibility and interdependence that is essential for building a healthy and progressive society.
He highlighted that individuals and communities are deeply connected to one another and that the well-being of one depends, in many ways, on the well-being of others. He pointed out that service to society is therefore not merely an act of giving but a shared responsibility in which everyone has a role to play. He further emphasised the importance of community service, environmental protection, youth leadership and encouraged the volunteers to remain committed to serving society.
Prof Lakhon Kma, Registrar in-charge of NEHU, expressed his appreciation to all NSS volunteers for their valuable contributions to society through various social and community-oriented activities. He recalled the significant contribution of the NSS to blood donation initiatives in Meghalaya and noted the decline in blood donation camps in recent years.
The NSS Hall at NEHU was also inaugurated on the occasion and university-level NSS Awards 2026 were conferred by the chief guest and other dignitaries in recognition of outstanding service and commitment to the community.
The Best NSS Unit Award 2026 was presented to NSS Unit of Balawan College, Umsning, Ri-Bhoi.
The Best NSS Programme Officer Awards were presented to Iarisa AR Dorphang of St Edmund’s College and Bikram Thapa of Buddha Bhanu Saraswati College.
The Best NSS Volunteer Awards were presented to Aphishisha Kharkongor of NEHU, Christine Nongspung of St Edmund’s College, Ibankyntiew Khriam and Wanting Russel Makdoh of Balawan College.
The celebration brought together more than 350 NSS volunteers and 60 programme officers from various institutions across Meghalaya.
