Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha recently engaged with the NCC cadets from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh who participated in the Republic Day Camp in New Delhi, an experience that filled the cadets with pride and honour. During the interaction, the cadets shared their experiences of representing their regions at the prestigious event, which highlighted their dedication and commitment to the nation. The Lieutenant Governor commended both the cadets and NCC officers for their remarkable performances on Kartavya Path and in various other competitions, particularly praising SUO Ekta Kumari for her leadership in guiding the All India NCC Girls Contingent during the Republic Day Parade. Her achievement brought immense pride to Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the dedication and excellence of the youth in the region.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised the importance of the youth in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that they are the torchbearers for a brighter tomorrow. He recognised the role of the NCC in developing leadership qualities and instilling discipline among the cadets, which plays a crucial part in preparing them to lead with innovative solutions and a sense of social responsibility. The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the importance of carrying forward the values and ideals of India’s ancient civilization, urging the cadets to work towards building a stronger and more prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. To further guide their future efforts, he outlined five key resolutions for the cadets to focus on: the rapid development of the region, improving the quality of life for its citizens, creating social units for nation-building, inspiring constructive social change, and ensuring the participation of all segments of society in the nation’s development.
As a recognition of their exemplary performance, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated the cadets with Certificates of Excellence. Maj Gen A. Bevli, VSM, Additional Director General of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh NCC Directorate, also presented a memento to the Lieutenant Governor as a token of gratitude for his continuous support to NCC initiatives. The vibrant cultural performances by the cadets, which showcased India’s unity in diversity, were highly appreciated by the Lieutenant Governor, who commended them as a powerful expression of the nation’s spirit and diversity.
A total of 127 cadets from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh participated in the Republic Day celebrations, with 17 cadets marching on Kartavya Path and five selected for the Guard of Honour. SUO Ekta Kumari’s leadership of the All India NCC Girls Contingent earned her recognition from the President of India and a DG NCC Commendation Card. Additionally, Cadet JUO Abida Afreen, who was honoured with the Raksha Mantri Commendation Card for her outstanding performance, was selected to scale Mt. Everest later this year, further inspiring the youth. Other cadets, including SUO Ekta Kumari, Cadet Alankrita Sharma, and ANO Dr. Lt Nitika Kundan, were also awarded DG NCC Commendation Cards for their exceptional contributions.
The interaction concluded with the honouring of the Contingent Commander, Col Amit Bhardwaj, and Nb Sub Yashbir Singh, who were awarded the DG NCC Medallion, along with eight other cadets who received this prestigious honour. The event was attended by senior officers and instructors from the J&K and Ladakh NCC Directorate, as well as officials from the School Education Department and Raj Bhawan, who celebrated the cadets’ achievements. This interaction not only recognised the cadets’ hard work but also served as a motivational platform to encourage youth participation in nation-building, inspiring them to become the leaders of tomorrow.