The National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 commenced with grandeur and ceremonial splendour at the DG NCC Camp, Delhi Cantt, marking a significant milestone in the run-up to India’s Republic Day celebrations. The camp reflects the scale, diversity, and growing national footprint of the NCC, bringing together cadets from across India and abroad.
Over 2,400 Cadets Participate, Including International Delegations
This year’s Republic Day Camp is witnessing the participation of 2,406 NCC cadets, including 127 cadets from Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and 131 cadets from the North East Region, symbolising national unity and inclusiveness.
In addition, cadets and officers from 25 Friendly Foreign Countries are participating under the Youth Exchange Programme (YEP), reinforcing India’s people-to-people diplomacy and global youth engagement.
DG NCC Marks 77 Years of Service and Growth
Addressing the gathering, Virendra Vats, Director General, NCC, congratulated the NCC fraternity on the completion of 77 years of service to the nation. He underlined the importance of the Republic Day Camp as a premier platform that exposes cadets to India’s rich cultural heritage and national traditions during key events held in the national capital ahead of Republic Day.
NCC Presence Now Covers Over 90% of India’s Districts
While interacting with the media, Lt Gen Vats highlighted the rapid expansion of NCC units, stating that the organisation now has a presence in more than 90% of districts across the country. He noted the remarkable growth of NCC cadet strength—from 20,000 at its inception in 1948 to nearly 20 lakh cadets today, with girls constituting around 40% of the total strength.
He emphasised NCC’s role in nation-building by instilling character, discipline, leadership, and social responsibility among the youth through structured training and camps.
Major Activities and National Contributions in 2025
Lt Gen Vats detailed the extensive activities undertaken by NCC during 2025, including:
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1,665 Annual Training Camps
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6 Special National Integration Camps
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33 Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Camps to strengthen cultural bonds
Beyond routine training, NCC cadets made significant national contributions:
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Special Mountaineering Expedition to Mount Everest
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Participation of ~75,000 cadets in Operation Sindoor, assisting civil administration and providing medical support, including voluntary blood donation
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Border outreach under Vibrant Villages Programme
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Plantation of 8 lakh trees under Ek Ped Maa ke Naam
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Over 4 lakh cadets in Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue Quiz
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Over 8 lakh cadets in International Day of Yoga
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50,000+ cadets in Swachhotsav
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6 lakh cadets in 150-year celebrations of Vande Mataram
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Drone flying training at four Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTOs)
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3,000 cadets trained under Skill Manthan workshops
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340 cadets working on 85 start-up ideas during Idea and Innovation Competitions
Ongoing Expeditions and Disaster Preparedness Training
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Lt Gen Vats said:
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A Special Sailing Expedition around 21 uninhabited islands of Andaman & Nicobar, dedicated to Param Veer Chakra awardees, is currently underway
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Two Cycling Expeditions are being conducted to commemorate milestones, social reforms, and the legacy of Veer Birsa Munda and Peshwa Bajirao
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Around 94,400 NCC cadets from 315 districts have been nominated by the Ministry of Home Affairs to be trained under the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) by March 2026
High-Level Dignitary Visits and PM’s Rally
The Republic Day Camp will be visited by several dignitaries, including the Vice President of India, Raksha Mantri, Raksha Rajya Mantri, Chief Minister of Delhi, Defence Secretary, Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The camp’s activities will culminate in the Prime Minister’s Rally on January 28, 2026, one of the most anticipated events of the Republic Day celebrations.
Conclusion
The commencement of the NCC Republic Day Camp 2026 stands as a testament to the organisation’s expanding reach, inclusivity, and unwavering commitment to nation-building. With its presence now spanning over 90% of India’s districts and its cadets actively contributing to national missions, social initiatives, and global engagement, NCC continues to shape disciplined, responsible, and inspired youth ready to serve the nation.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
