New Delhi, Dec 30 (.) A Sarv Dharm Pooja marked the opening of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 at the Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi Cantt, on Tuesday. This year a total of 2,406 cadets including 898 girl cadets drawn from 28 states and 08 union Territories are participating, which is the highest to date.
The month-long camp features several inter-directorate competitions and events like Best Cadet Competition, Small Arms Firing, Marching Contingent during the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, and Flag Area Designing.
Cadets and Officers from 25 Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) will also take part in the celebrations this year under the Youth Exchange Programme (YEP).
Speaking on the occasion, Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, Director General NCC, welcomed the cadets and congratulated them on their selection for the prestigious Republic Day Camp. He urged the cadets to display the highest qualities of character, integrity, selfless service, comradeship and teamwork transcending barriers of religion, language, and caste in the true spirit of ‘Nation First.’
Upholding its motto ‘Unity and Discipline,’ the Republic Day Camp brings together NCC cadets from across the country and provides them with opportunities for training and cultural exchange, while instilling a deep sense of patriotism, discipline, and leadership in cadets.
Notably, the government is planning to increase the NCC’s strength from 17 to 20 lakhs and expand its role in various programmes to contribute to both national development and national security.
. PWS PRS