New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Annual NCC PM Rally at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi today. Greeting the gathering on the occasion of NCC Day, the Prime Minister said that the efforts of NCC and NSS cadets, tableau artists, companions from the National Rangshala, and young participants from across the country were clearly visible in their coordinated performances.
“NCC is a movement that makes India’s youth confident, disciplined, sensitive, and dedicated citizens of the nation,” Modi said, emphasising that cadets are strengthening their role every year. He noted that the number of NCC cadets has increased from 14 lakh to 20 lakh in recent years, with significant growth in border and coastal areas.
The Prime Minister underlined that NCC is a platform where youth live their heritage with pride, citing the nationwide celebration of 150 years of Vande Mataram. He highlighted initiatives such as the Paramveer Sagar Yatra and island festivals in Lakshadweep as examples of honouring national heroes, culture, and nature.
He said NCC has brought history alive from monuments to the streets by highlighting the valour of Bajirao Peshwa, the skill of Lachit Borphukan, and the leadership of Bhagwan Birsa Munda through awareness campaigns such as cycle rallies.
Recalling his Red Fort address, the Prime Minister said the present era offers maximum opportunities for India’s youth. He cited the India–EU Free Trade Agreement, along with FTAs with Oman, New Zealand, Britain, UAE, Australia, and Mauritius, as steps creating new opportunities for millions of young people.
He said Indian youth are trusted globally because of their skills and values, including democracy, respect for diversity, and the belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He added that Indian professionals are contributing significantly to healthcare, infrastructure, education, and technology across the world.
The Prime Minister noted that the India–EU FTA, described globally as the “Mother of All Deals,” covers one-fourth of global GDP and one-third of global trade, and will create major opportunities in startups, innovation, creative industries, services, manufacturing, agriculture, and exports.
Lauding the tableau on Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister specifically appreciated the role played by NCC cadets during the critical national security situation. He highlighted their support to the armed forces, blood donation drives, and first-aid services, stating that NCC training instills the spirit of “Nation First” beyond the parade ground.
He said Operation Sindoor reaffirmed India’s strength, the valour of its armed forces, and the advancement of indigenous defence capabilities. Emphasising the growing role of technology in modern warfare, he urged youth to leverage opportunities in defence innovation, startups, AI, and indigenous manufacturing.
The Prime Minister also spoke on civic responsibility, fitness, environmental conservation, voter awareness, and youth participation in nation-building, concluding by expressing confidence that NCC cadets will continue to contribute to building a developed India.
Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, and Sanjay Seth were among the dignitaries present at the event.