DAY1: Naval Chief Praises NCC Republic Day Camp During Visit

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The Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Nirmal Verma was provided a preview of the National Cadet Corps’ (NCC) Republic Day Parade performance during his visit to the NCC Republic Day Camp in Delhi Cantonment on January 16. Presented by a contingent of NCC cadets from the Army, Navy and Air Force branches, Naval Chief Verma inspected a guard of honour prior to visiting the important areas of the camp. In the Chief’s honour, a cultural programme was also hosted by NCC cadets, highlighting Indian culture and National integration.

To welcome the Chief, Lt Gen R.K. Karwal, Director General NCC, provided figures on the increasing number of NCC cadets and the rising interest amongst the activities taking place. “In the road ahead we are looking at making NCC more broadways. We are consistently modifying our syllabus,” addressed Gen Karwal in his opening speech.

While Chief Verma applauded the progress of the NCC and its various programmes, he also supported Commander Dilip Donde on his current voyage of becoming the first Indian to sail solo across the world. Chief Verma also encouraged NCC cadets to come to Mumbai and get a first-hand look at the Indian Navy’s Sail Training ship Tarangini. Recalling his days in the NCC and how it helped him begin his career in the Navy, Chief Verma raved the cadets’ performances and concluded with encouraging words. “As you go on to your future professions, you will recall your years at the NCC. I look forward to meeting all of you in different places,” spoke the Chief.

The ceremony was concluded with a formal thank you to Chief Verma for his attendance by Gen Karwal and a photo-op with cadets from the cultural show. The Chief hosted tea at the Naval House for cadets and guests present at the event.

 

DAY 2: Raksha Rajya Mantri Visits NCC Camp During Annual Event

Hon’ble Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri MM Pallam Raju visited the NCC Republic Day Camp in Delhi Cantonment on January 17.

On his arrival at the Camp, RRM Raju inspected a guard of honour presented by a contingent of NCC cadets from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. The boys and girls cadet exhibited a synchronised rifle drill, followed by an exhilarating band display. The RRM also witnessed a cultural programme put up by highly talented cadets drawn from all across the country.

Speaking on the occasion RRM Raju praised the NCC for the excellent work being done in grooming the future leaders of our country. “With NCC in the helms of affairs in grooming the youth, the future of our country is in safe hands,” RRM Raju shared.

Lt Gen RK Karwal, Director General NCC, formally thanked RRM Raju for his visit to the camp at the conclusion of the event.

 

DAY 3: Defence Minister A K Antony presents awards at Annual NCC Camp

Defence Minister A K Antony encouraged NCC cadets to join the Indian Armed forces in large numbers during his visit to the annual NCC Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantt on January 21. Apart from viewing the cultural programme and receiving the Guard of Honour from NCC cadets, Mr. Antony was also invited to present awards for bravery and/or service to the well deserving officer and cadets for their exemplary acts in the past year. Other highlights of the event took place during the cultural programme which Mr. Antony enjoyed along with Defence Secretary, Mr. Pradeep Kumar.

In addressing the cadets present, Antony praised NCC for generating awareness amongst today’s youth. “Given the modern day scenario, our youth must be sensitized to social and community development activities. NCC has always led from the front in contributing towards social causes and generating awareness,” he said. To highlight the unity present amongst the NCC community, all those present sang the NCC song in hymn at the conclusion of the function due to a system failure; bringing a true feeling of patriotism.

 

FINAL DAY: The PM appreciates NCC cadets at Annual Rally

Recalling India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s great interest in community development as a curriculum in National Cadet Corp (NCC), Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, noted his delight in NCC cadets’ involvement in disaster relief, environment concerns, AIDS relief, and social service. Addressing the NCC cadets at the annual Prime Minister’s Rally at the Army Parade Ground in New Delhi, Dr. Singh applauded the disciplined and talented NCC cadets in their performances, and presented awards to the winners of various trophies and medals at the camp held in connection with the 61st Republic Day Parade.

On a serious note, Dr. Singh warned of destructive forces both inside and outside India trying to stunt the country's growth and called for defeating the twin threats of terrorism and communalism. He also emphasised the increment in responsibility of youth organisations, such as NCC, as they inspire and train the youth to become disciplined and able to serve and protect the country. He also credited NCC in motivating many cadets to join the Armed Forces.

Cadets from all three wings of armed forces: Army, Navy and Air Force, presented a guard of honour to Dr. Singh on his arrival. Highlights of the rally included a mock battleground drill with cadets climbing a MR-8 helicopter. Cadets also showcased their vigour in activities such as parasailing, flying micro-light planes, and performing cultural dances. The common theme song performed by each band at the rally was ‘Sare Jahan Se Accha’.

Also prominent at the rally were exchange students from abroad attending the camp, which were a part of the march past. The close to 100 cadets from participating countries such as Sri Lanka, Russia, and Kazakhstan who attended the parade were warmly welcomed by Dr. Singh with hopes of their stay and memories of India being pleasant. He also encouraged such exchange programmes and said they should be expanded further to include youth from more countries.

Appreciating the enthusiasm and respect displayed by the NCC cadets at the rally, Dr. Singh said he was confident that the future of the country was safe in their hands. He also called for an increase in the strength of the NCC, which presently stands at 13 lakh cadets.

Defence Minister A K Antony, Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju, Army Chief Gen Deepak Kapoor, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal P V Naik and Navy Chief Admiral Nirmal Verma were also present at the occasion.