In a significant boost to youth development and national service, Raksha Rajya Mantri (Minister of State for Defence) Shri Sanjay Seth announced the expansion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) by three lakh cadets across India. The announcement was made during the Special Joint State Representatives and Additional/Deputy Directors General Conference of the NCC held in Bhopal on June 3, 2025.
This expansion aims to provide more young Indians with access to the NCC’s discipline-focused training, while also opening up opportunities for skill development, leadership, and community service. Several states have already agreed to participate and have promised to speed up the development of training infrastructure.
A Call for Stronger Centre-State Cooperation
While addressing the gathering, Shri Sanjay Seth emphasized the importance of the NCC in nation-building and character development among youth. He called for stronger cooperation between the Centre and States, urging state governments to meet their commitments regarding manpower, infrastructure, and funding to support this large-scale expansion.
He said, “The NCC plays a vital role in shaping the future of our country by instilling discipline, patriotism, and leadership qualities in young people. It is the responsibility of both central and state governments to ensure its continued growth and success.”
Ex-Servicemen as NCC Instructors: New Opportunities for Veterans
One of the notable initiatives highlighted was the inclusion of Ex-Servicemen as NCC instructors. This move not only strengthens the training program with experienced personnel but also creates new employment opportunities for military veterans, allowing them to continue serving the nation in a new capacity.
NCC’s Active Role in National Campaigns
Shri Seth praised the NCC for its active involvement in important national missions, including:
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign)
- Nasha Mukti Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign)
- Naya Savera Scheme (support for minorities and youth welfare)
He highlighted how NCC cadets across the country have been playing a key role in spreading awareness and leading by example in these social initiatives.
Everest Success: A Symbol of NCC Spirit
The minister also congratulated the NCC Mount Everest Expedition team, who successfully scaled the world’s highest peak on May 18, 2025. He described their achievement as a shining example of the courage, endurance, and determination that NCC seeks to instill in every cadet.
“This victory is not just about reaching a summit—it represents the strength and resilience of our youth,” he said.
NCC’s Vision for the Future
Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, the Director General of NCC, presented the organization’s roadmap for the future. He spoke about ongoing efforts to develop better training and camping infrastructure across the country, ensuring that more cadets can be trained effectively.
He also focused on improving cadet performance, discipline, and national engagement, while encouraging greater participation from rural and underserved regions.
Wide Participation in the Conference
The conference in Bhopal saw participation from several key stakeholders, including:
- Ministers of Education and Youth Affairs & Sports
- Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence
- State representatives from education and youth departments
- NCC heads and senior officers from all states
The gathering served as a platform to discuss the implementation of the NCC expansion, share best practices, and ensure all stakeholders are aligned in their vision.
Looking Ahead
The planned addition of three lakh cadets will significantly increase the reach and impact of the NCC, helping India’s youth to develop into responsible, confident, and service-minded citizens. With the joint support of central and state governments, the NCC is set to become a stronger force for national unity, discipline, and progress.
This historic move also reflects India’s growing investment in youth power as a pillar of future national strength, ensuring that the values of patriotism, service, and teamwork are nurtured in every corner of the country.