New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for the expansion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) with the addition of three lakh cadet vacancies. This decision comes in response to the growing demand for NCC enrolment from educational institutions across India.
Since its inception in 1948 with just 20,000 cadets, the NCC will now have a sanctioned strength of 20 lakh cadets, solidifying its position as the world’s largest uniformed youth organization. The inclusion of NCC as an elective subject under the National Education Policy 2020 aligns with the government’s efforts to empower youth to become future leaders of the nation.
The expansion plan aims to evenly distribute vacancies across all States and Union Territories, reducing the waiting list of institutions seeking NCC affiliation. It involves the establishment of four new Group Headquarters and the addition of two new NCC units.
A significant aspect of the expansion is the proposal to employ ex-servicemen as NCC instructors, leveraging their skills and experience. This initiative not only ensures high-quality training for NCC cadets but also creates employment opportunities for veterans.
The expansion underscores a commitment to nurturing future leaders who embody discipline, leadership, and service. It is expected to create a pool of motivated, disciplined, and patriotic youth, contributing to the vision of a developed India.