In a momentous development for youth empowerment and national integration, Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, YSM VSM General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command, presided over the Raising Ceremony at Udhampur of four new National Cadet Corps (NCC) units in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
The newly raised units, which include 6 J&K Bn NCC at Udhampur, 1 Air Squadron NCC at Udhampur, 7 J&K Bn NCC at Kupwara and 2 Ladakh BN NCC at Kargil, representing a significant step forward in extending the reach of the NCC in these strategically important regions.
The NCC cadets presented an impressive Guard of Honour to the Chief Guest. The newly raised units were presented with the scrolls; a symbol of honour, pride and responsibility.
A large number of dignitaries from civil administration and state officials attended the function, Notable ones being Mr Ghulam Nabi Bhat, Additional Secretary School Education, Mr Garib Dass, Director Police Academy, Ms Saloni Rai, DC Udhampur.
Addressing the gathering of officers, dignitaries, and cadets, the GOC-in-C emphasized that this expansion is a strategic decision and highlighted the unique role NCC plays in national integration. “The training and discipline imparted by the NCC can play a pivotal role in shaping the youth’s outlook, offering them a platform to engage in national service and become proactive citizens,” he remarked.
The General Officer underscored that this initiative aims to empower boys and girls alike, providing them with opportunities to develop leadership, discipline, and a strong sense of national pride. “The youth of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh have immense potential, and their contribution to the nation can be transformational said the GOC-in-C. Special to note is the formation of an Air Squadron NCC, which will allow cadets to explore the exciting field of aviation, broadening their horizons beyond conventional roles.
The GOC-in-C praised the tireless efforts of the Indian Armed Forces in mentoring NCC cadets, noting that their battlefield experience and technical expertise significantly enhances the training program. He also acknowledged the crucial role of Associate NCC Officers (ANOs), who act as role models and mentors, guiding cadets in their personal and academic development.
Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh Director General NCC was also present on this occasion who said “Established in 1948, the NCC has continuously evolved, empowering our youth through leadership, discipline, and a sense of service. The strength of 17 Lakh cadets across the country, which includes 825 NCC Units, 6,500 schools and 4,500 colleges is enhancing its reach and impact. We are now increasing the overall cadet strength to 20 lakhs with new raisings being pioneered by Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Directorate and nation-wide expansion of existing NCC Battalions”.
Maj Gen Rajesh Kumar Sachdeva, Additional Director General, NCC Directorate Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh enthusiastically shared the excellence achieved by NCC cadets in various service entries, with 28 cadets becoming officers, 178 becoming Sub Inspectors in police, 799 Agniveers and 221 taking on the role of constables ready to serve our nation with honour.
He lauded the grit of three cadets of the Directorate who have been selected for NCC’s Mount Everest Expedition scheduled in the year 2025. The ADG also highlighted that as a historic milestone, 1 Ladakh Battalion NCC received a unit citation from the Hon’ble Lt Governor of Ladakh. Also, the NCC Directorate of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has been recognized with a Unit citation from, Hon’ble Lt Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, marking the first time such honour been bestowed in the entire country.
The expansion of the NCC in these regions marks a new chapter in fostering a sense of unity, discipline, and national pride among the youth. “This initiative represents our collective vision for a stronger, more unified India,” the GOC-in-C stated, highlighting that the NCC serves as a bridge between young people and the nation’s greater objectives of security, service, and nation-building.
The GOC-in-C expressed gratitude towards the civil administration for its support in policy formation, resource allocation, and logistical assistance, ensuring the smooth functioning of NCC activities across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
The GOC-in-C also expressed a special note of appreciation to Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VSM DG NCC and Maj Gen RK Sachdeva, ADG NCC Dte Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh, for their role in making this expansion a reality.
