New Delhi: In his radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) on NCC Day.
“Today is a significant occasion as we celebrate NCC Day, which brings back memories of our school and college days. As a former NCC cadet, I can confidently say that the experiences I gained were invaluable. The NCC instills discipline, leadership, and a sense of service in young people. You may have noticed that during disasters, such as floods or earthquakes, NCC cadets are always on the front lines,” the Prime Minister remarked.
He noted the ongoing efforts to strengthen the NCC, stating, “In 2014, around 1.4 million youths joined the NCC, and by 2024, that number has increased to over 200,000. Additionally, more than 5,000 schools and colleges are now affiliated with the NCC. Notably, the percentage of girl cadets has risen from nearly 25% to around 40%.”
PM Modi also mentioned a campaign aimed at involving youth from border areas in the NCC and encouraged more young people to join, asserting that participation would enhance their personal development regardless of their career choices.
Furthermore, he reiterated his previous call for youth to engage in politics, particularly those from families without political backgrounds. He announced a new initiative to connect one lakh such youths with politics, including the upcoming ‘Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue’ scheduled for January 11-12, 2025, to commemorate the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
NCC Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of November to honor the organization’s founding in 1948. The NCC is recognized as the largest uniformed youth organization globally, with a motto of Unity and Discipline.