New Delhi witnessed a moment of pride on Monday as Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi visited the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp 2026. Reflecting on his own days as an NCC cadet, the Admiral saw in these young faces the true spirit of India – a glimpse of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
The cadets from Army, Navy, and Air Force wings greeted the Navy Chief with a crisp Guard of Honour. Admiral Tripathi commended their impeccable turnout, precise drills, outstanding band performances, and captivating cultural shows, rewarding them with the naval accolade ‘Bravo Zulu’ for excellence.
He congratulated the cadets on their selection for this prestigious camp and highlighted NCC’s vital role in instilling patriotism, discipline, and social responsibility. The Admiral specifically praised the contributions of nearly 72,000 NCC cadets during Operation Sindoor in civil defense efforts, along with their innovative training in drone operations and cyber awareness.
Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s words that ‘India’s youth are the force for global good,’ Admiral Tripathi expressed confidence in the youth’s pivotal role in building a developed India by 2047. He noted how NCC is evolving, blending traditional drill and leadership training with modern skills in drones, digital systems, and cyber technologies to prepare disciplined, tech-savvy patriots for a rapidly changing world.
Drawing from his experience, the Navy Chief shared five key life lessons: maintain self-discipline by avoiding distractions, commit to lifelong learning to stay relevant, exhibit physical and moral courage inspired by heroes like Lieutenant Arun Khetrapal and Captain Mahendra Nath, embrace team spirit with ‘one for all, all for one,’ and never give up.
Reaffirming the Indian Navy’s commitment to NCC training, Admiral Tripathi detailed initiatives like Project Puneet Sagar and Exercise Sea Vigil, which offer cadets hands-on exposure to maritime environments, seamanship, sailing, yachting, shipboard training, and even overseas deployments. This holistic approach immerses cadets in naval life.
In his concluding remarks, the Admiral urged cadets to internalize unity, discipline, and integrity, viewing national service as the highest duty. The event featured a stunning band display by cadets from Rajasthan’s Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani, followed by a tour of the flag area showcasing state cultures, histories, and developments, plus technical exhibitions with static and working models of ships and aircraft.