New Delhi is set to witness a momentous occasion as Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes center stage at the Kariappa Parade Ground on Wednesday to address the annual National Cadet Corps (NCC) PM Rally. This grand event marks the culmination of the month-long NCC Republic Day Camp 2026, bringing together 2,406 cadets from across India, including 898 young women who have showcased exemplary discipline and enthusiasm.
The rally, themed ‘Nation First – Duty-Bound Youth,’ underscores the vital role of India’s youth in fostering duty, discipline, and unwavering national commitment. Prime Minister Modi is expected to share his insights on prioritizing the nation and character building, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Adding an international dimension, 207 youth and officers from 21 foreign countries will join the festivities, highlighting NCC’s growing global footprint. A spectacular cultural program, featuring performances by NCC cadets, members of the National Sports Stadium, and National Service Scheme volunteers, will illuminate themes of nation-building, community service, and personal development.
Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the camp in Delhi Cantt and praised NCC cadets as the nation’s second line of defense. Drawing inspiration from their role in Operation Sindoor mock drills, he urged them to spread awareness nationwide. ‘In an era of global uncertainty, our youth must be physically, mentally, and emotionally resilient to face every challenge,’ Singh emphasized.
Recalling Operation Sindoor, Singh detailed how Indian armed forces decisively neutralized terrorists in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the cowardly attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. ‘Our soldiers acted with courage and restraint, targeting only those who harmed us, thanks to their all-round strength,’ he noted.
Singh highlighted how NCC instills discipline and patriotism, helping cadets overcome focus deficiencies. This focus, he added, manifests in every career path—be it the armed forces, medicine, engineering, teaching, science, administration, or politics—shaping well-rounded citizens committed to India’s progress.