Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on 24 January 2026 called upon India’s youth to remain physically, mentally and emotionally strong in the face of global uncertainties, urging them to draw inspiration from the exemplary role played by NCC cadets during Operation Sindoor. Addressing cadets at the NCC Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantt, he described them as the nation’s second line of defence and reaffirmed that youth will play a decisive role in achieving the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
NCC Cadets Praised for Role During Operation Sindoor
The Raksha Mantri lauded NCC cadets for their vital contribution in raising public awareness when mock drills were conducted nationwide during Operation Sindoor. He noted that the cadets stood shoulder to shoulder with the Armed Forces when the nation rallied in unity.
Referring to the recent security response, he stated that the Indian Armed Forces destroyed terrorist targets based in Pakistan and PoK as a firm response to the cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, while maintaining restraint and targeting only those who posed a threat. He added that such strength flows from discipline, mental resilience and emotional balance—qualities that NCC cadets exemplify.
Youth Compared to Abhimanyu, Called Nation’s Greatest Strength
Shri Rajnath Singh compared today’s youth to Abhimanyu from the Mahabharata, saying they possess the courage and wisdom to enter complex challenges and emerge victorious. He emphasised that expectations from young citizens have grown and that they are now invaluable assets responsible for taking the nation to greater heights.
He urged cadets to actively contribute towards realising the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
NCC Builds Discipline, Focus and Mental Strength
Calling NCC an excellent platform for character building, the Raksha Mantri highlighted that while the modern world promotes comfort through technology and convenience, NCC helps youth break out of comfort zones through:
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Parades and drills
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Camps and field activities
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Discipline-oriented training
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Life skills for disaster response and self-protection
He said NCC instils discipline, patriotism and focus, qualities increasingly essential in an age of instant gratification.
Life Lessons: Importance of Plan A, Plan B and Plan C
Offering practical life guidance, Shri Rajnath Singh advised cadets to always prepare Plan B and Plan C along with Plan A. He noted that resilience comes from adaptability and told cadets to adopt a “military mindset”—one rooted in perseverance, preparedness and balance, rather than rigid thinking.
NCC’s Legacy in Nation-Building Highlighted
The Raksha Mantri underscored NCC’s historic contribution to national service, recalling that:
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Param Vir Chakra awardees Captain Manoj Pandey and Captain Vikram Batra were NCC cadets
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Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rajnath Singh were NCC cadets
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NCC cadets served as the second line of defence during the 1965 and 1971 wars
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Thousands of former cadets today contribute across sectors such as defence, administration, science, education and public life
He said NCC continues to be one of India’s strongest institutions for shaping responsible citizens.
Republic Day a Reminder of Constitutional Values
With the nation preparing to celebrate the 77th Republic Day, the Raksha Mantri reminded cadets that the Constitution is not just a text but a guiding framework for duties, rights and values. He encouraged cadets to act as flag bearers of constitutional awareness, helping build a society rooted in democracy, responsibility and integrity.
Cadets Honoured with Raksha Mantri Padak and Commendation Cards
An Investiture Ceremony was held during the event, where Shri Rajnath Singh conferred:
Raksha Mantri Padak 2026 to:
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Cadet Arpun Deep Kaur – Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Directorate
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Cadet Palden Lepcha – West Bengal & Sikkim Directorate
Commendation Cards to:
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Petty Officer Lisha Dejappa Suvarna – Karnataka & Goa Directorate
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Junior Under Officer Pavan Bhagel – Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh Directorate
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Corporal Radha Dorjee – North Eastern Region Directorate
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Cadet Prince Singh Rana – Uttarakhand Directorate
These awards recognised outstanding performance and dedication to duty.
Guard of Honour, Band Performance and Cultural Events Add Grandeur
The Raksha Mantri reviewed an impressive Guard of Honour presented by cadets from all three wings.
The event also featured:
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A captivating band performance by NCC cadets of Scindia School, Gwalior
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Visit to the ‘Flag Area’ prepared by cadets from all 17 NCC Directorates on social awareness themes
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Colourful cultural performances by cadets
The programme was attended by DG NCC Lt Gen Virendra Vats and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence.
Conclusion
The Raksha Mantri’s address at the Republic Day Camp served as a powerful reminder of the transformative role youth play in shaping the nation’s future. By celebrating discipline, courage, preparedness and service, the event reaffirmed NCC’s position as a cornerstone of nation-building. The message was clear: a strong, focused and value-driven youth will be the driving force behind India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
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Source: PIB
