Rajnath Singh urges youth to stay battle-ready at NCC Republic day camp
New Delhi, Jan 24: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged young people to remain physically, mentally, and emotionally strong to navigate a world marked by growing uncertainty, as he addressed cadets at the NCC Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantt. On the occasion, he conferred the Raksha Mantri Padak on Cadet Arpun Deep Kaur of the Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh Directorate for her outstanding performance and dedication to duty. Calling the National Cadet Corps (NCC) the nation’s “second line of defence”, Rajnath Singh praised cadets for their role in public awareness efforts during mock drills conducted during Operation Sindoor, when the country rallied behind the Armed Forces. Referring to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, he said Indian forces carried out precise strikes against terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, acting with courage and restraint. “The Armed Forces targeted only those who hurt us, not anyone else. This was possible because our soldiers are strong physically, mentally and emotionally,” the Defence Minister said.
Describing the youth as modern-day Abhimanyus, Rajnath Singh said they possess the strength to enter and emerge victorious from any chakravyuh.
He urged them to contribute to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government’s vision of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047, saying expectations from the younger generation have increased and they now carry the responsibility of taking the nation to greater heights. Rajnath Singh highlighted the NCC’s role in shaping disciplined and resilient citizens, noting that in an age dominated by comfort and instant gratification, NCC training builds focus, patience and mental strength through drills, camps and parades. He said cadets also acquire life skills that help them respond effectively during disasters. Advising cadets to plan ahead, the Defence Minister stressed the importance of having multiple options in life. He said relying on a single plan can lead to fear and disappointment, while alternatives help maintain confidence and control. He encouraged the youth to adopt a “military way” of thinking and remain adaptable in the face of challenges.
Highlighting the NCC’s contribution to nation-building, Rajnath Singh recalled that several of its alumni have played key roles in the country’s development. He noted that Param Vir Chakra awardees Captain Manoj Pandey and Captain Vikram Batra were former NCC cadets, adding that both he and Prime Minister Modi had also been part of the organisation. He also recalled the deployment of NCC cadets as the second line of defence during the 1965 and 1971 wars. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 77th Republic Day on January 26, Rajnath Singh said the occasion is a reminder to uphold democratic and constitutional values. He described the Constitution as a living guide that shapes citizens’ rights and duties, and said NCC cadets can serve as flag-bearers in spreading constitutional awareness. During the investiture ceremony, the Raksha Mantri Padak was also awarded to Cadet Palden Lepcha of the West Bengal and Sikkim Directorate. Commendation Cards were presented to four cadets from Karnataka & Goa, Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh, the North Eastern Region and Uttarakhand directorates.
