Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for the expansion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) with the addition of three lakh cadet vacancies. According to a release, this expansion is expected to cater to the increasing demand for the NCC from educational institutions throughout the country. The expansion plan encompasses the establishment of four new Group Headquarters and the addition of two new NCC units. The Ministry said that an important facet of the expansion plan involves the proposal for the employment of ex-servicemen as NCC instructors. It said, the initiative will expand the base of motivated, disciplined, and patriotic youth of the ‘Amrit Peedhi’ who will contribute towards achieving the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’.

From just 20 thousand cadets in 1948, the NCC will now have a sanctioned strength of 20 lakh cadets in its roles making it the largest uniformed youth organisation of the world. The Ministry further noted that with NCC being offered as an elective subject as per the National Education Policy 2020, the expansion will be a step towards meeting the aspirations of the youth towards playing a pivotal role as future leaders of the nation.

The far-reaching impact of this expansion will lead to proportionate distribution of vacancies across all States and Union Territories and would reduce the waiting list of institutions aspiring for the NCC.

The NCC aims to make a transformative impact, fostering an environment where youth meaningfully contribute towards nation-building.