Environment Protection : Role of National Service Scheme in Belgaum, India.

Since many years environmental degradation that has occurred is marked by a large extraction of natural sources, Loss of forests, extinction of animal and plant species, depletion of the ozone layer, air, water and soil pollution, loss of marine life, and  bio-diversity and so on. These have posed serious threat to the very survival of life on earth. Protecting the natural environment for the benefit of humans is the need of the hour. Environmental protection has gained momentum in recent times.  In this direction the Government and NGO’S have initiated many programmes to protect the environment.  One of the significant initiatives is the National Service Scheme implemented by the Government of India, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports popularly known as NSS was launched in Gandhiji's Birth Centenary Year 1969.

 The role of NSS in protection and conservation of environment is examined by conducting an empirical study. The data from 150 respondents are collected by questionnaire method. NSS organize activities of Environment Enrichment and Conservation, such as plantation of trees, Construction of sanitary latrines etc. Cleaning of village ponds and wells, construction of Gobar Gas Plants, use of non-conventional energy, Environmental sanitation, and disposal of garbage & composting, Watershed management and wasteland development. The study concludes that, NSS has provided a platform for the students to support the best environmental practices. Involvement of student volunteers in environmental activities through NSS can contribute to the overall development of positive qualities in young people and develops among them a sense of social and civic responsibility.