NCC cadets attend a public meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bikaner district, Rajasthan on May 22.
| Photo Credit: PTI

Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Tuesday announced the planned expansion of National Cadet Corps (NCC) by three lakh cadets across the country, with several States already extending their concurrence and committing to fast-track the necessary training infrastructure.

After inaugurating the Special Joint State Representatives and Additional/Deputy Directors General Conference of the NCC in Bhopal, Mr. Seth highlighted its role in nation building and youth development. Listing the initiatives, he spoke about the inclusion of ex-servicemen as NCC instructors, providing new employment avenues for veterans and lauded the NCC’s active involvement in national campaigns such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Naya Savera Scheme, and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

He also congratulated the NCC Mount Everest Expedition team for their successful summit on May 18 describing it as a powerful example of cadet courage and resilience. Calling for continued Centre-State collaboration, Mr. Seth urged the States to fulfil their commitments towards manpower, infrastructure, and funding to support the expansion.

“Director General NCC Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh outlined the Corps’ achievements and roadmap ahead, with a focus on establishing robust training and camping infrastructure nationwide. He emphasised the goal of fostering greater youth participation and improving cadet performance,” said a release.

Among those present on the occasion were Ministers of Education and Youth Affairs & Sports, senior Defence Ministry officials, State Department representatives, and NCC heads from all States.