Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing NCC cadets at Delhi Cantt’s Republic Day Camp, urged India’s younger generation to steel themselves against global volatility by taking cues from Operation Sindoor’s star performers. These cadets orchestrated vital mock drills nationwide, amplifying public support during a critical national moment.
Positioning NCC as the backbone of secondary defense, Singh lauded their synergy with armed forces. He vividly described Operation Sindoor’s success: precision strikes dismantling terror networks in Pakistan and PoK, avenging the gutless Pahalgam attack with courage, poise, and targeted action – hallmarks of soldiers’ holistic strength.
Evoking Abhimanyu’s epic prowess, Singh challenged youth to arm themselves for any ‘chakravyuh’ life throws. In PM Modi’s era of heightened ambitions, they must drive the 2047 developed India dream, as the true architects of progress.
NCC emerges as a forge for character, dragging youth from sedentary traps of apps and deliveries into rigorous training that cultivates discipline, patriotism, and survival skills for crises. It counters impatience with lessons in endurance and concentration, fueling success in military, professional, or public spheres.
Practical wisdom flowed as Singh preached multiple contingency plans: ‘No single path; prepare for rain and sun alike.’ He spotlighted NCC’s hall of fame – Kargil bravehearts Pandey and Batra, PM Modi, himself, and wartime contingents from ’65 and ’71 – underscoring their nation-shaping legacy.
On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, he portrayed the Constitution as an empowering covenant of rights and responsibilities, with cadets as torchbearers. Awards honored excellence: medals for Arpunn Deep Kaur and Paldon Lepcha; commendations for Leisha Dejappa Suvarna, Pawan Bhaghel, Radha Dorji, and Prince Singh Rana.
The program dazzled with Guard of Honour inspection, Scindia School’s band spectacle, thematic flag zones from 17 directorates, cultural extravaganzas, graced by DG NCC Lt Gen Virendra Vats and top officials.