The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, formally inaugurated the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 at the DG NCC Camp on January 5, 2026. Addressing thousands of young cadets from across the country, the Vice-President hailed them as the “face of New India” and expressed strong faith in the youth’s role in nation-building.
RDC 2026: A National Platform for Youth Excellence
A total of 2,406 NCC cadets, including 898 girl cadets, drawn from 17 NCC Directorates across India, are participating in RDC 2026. The camp will culminate with the Prime Minister’s Rally on January 28, 2026.
During the camp, cadets will engage in a wide range of activities, including:
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Best Cadet Competition
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Small Arms Firing
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Cultural Programmes
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Republic Day Parade Marching Contingent
The camp showcases discipline, leadership, cultural unity, and military training among youth from all regions of the country.
Guard of Honour and Cultural Showcase
Cadets from all three wings—Army, Navy, and Air Force—presented a Guard of Honour to the Vice-President on his arrival. This was followed by a vibrant band display by the Girl Cadets of St Francis De Sales School, Guwahati, representing the NER Directorate. Shri Radhakrishnan also visited the NCC Hall of Fame, acknowledging the organisation’s rich legacy.
Youth at the Core of Aatmanirbhar Bharat
In his address, the Vice-President underlined the importance of disciplined and value-driven youth in achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, led by Narendra Modi. He noted that the NCC plays a crucial role in shaping skilled, responsible, and patriotic citizens who can contribute meaningfully to national development.
Highlighting the 78-year legacy of the NCC, Shri Radhakrishnan said the organisation has consistently nurtured confident and committed citizens who will lay the foundation of Viksit Bharat@2047.
“You Are the Face of New India”
Addressing the cadets directly, the Vice-President said, “You are not mere participants in RDC, but the face of New India.” He praised their achievements in:
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Adventure and mountaineering activities
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Youth Exchange Programmes
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The successful Mount Everest summit by 10 NCC cadets in 2025
These accomplishments, he noted, reflect the courage, discipline, and global outlook of India’s youth.
NCC’s Role in National Service and Social Initiatives
Shri Radhakrishnan lauded the contribution of 75,000 NCC cadets during Operation Sindoor, where they voluntarily assisted in civil defence duties and disaster relief. He also appreciated their active involvement in social and environmental initiatives, including:
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Relief work during the Wayanad floods
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Puneet Sagar Abhiyaan
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Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign
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Nasha Mukt Abhiyan
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Blood donation drives
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Har Ghar Tiranga campaign
These efforts, he said, reflect the NCC’s ethos of service before self.
Conclusion
The inauguration of RDC 2026 reaffirmed the it’s vital role in nation-building and youth empowerment. By combining discipline, service, cultural unity, and leadership, the NCC continues to shape a generation ready to lead India towards Viksit Bharat@2047. Concluding the event, Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan congratulated the cadets and conveyed his best wishes for a successful Republic Day Camp.
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Source: PIB
