PM Modi to address NCC PM Rally, stress on ‘Nation First’ and character building

• NCC PM Rally marks the conclusion of the NCC Republic Day Camp 2026

• Over 2,400 cadets, including nearly 900 girl cadets, took part in the camp

• Youth and officers from 21 foreign countries to participate

• Cultural performances to highlight nation-building and social service

GG News Bureau
New Delhi January 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the annual National Cadet Corps (NCC) Prime Minister’s Rally on Wednesday at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi, where he will share his views on the theme of “Nation First” and the importance of character development among India’s youth.

The NCC PM Rally is the grand finale of the month-long NCC Republic Day Camp 2026. This year’s camp witnessed the participation of 2,406 cadets from across the country, including 898 girl cadets, reflecting the growing involvement of young women in the organisation.

Officials said the event will also see international participation, with 207 youth and officers from 21 foreign countries attending the rally, underlining the global outreach of the NCC.

Theme Focused on Duty and Discipline

The theme of this year’s rally, ‘Rashtra Pratham – Kartavya Nishtha Yuva’, underscores the values of duty, discipline and unwavering commitment to the nation. An official statement said the theme reflects the NCC’s role in shaping responsible and focused citizens.

Cultural Programme at the Rally

A vibrant cultural programme will be presented during the event by NCC cadets, members of Rashtriya Rangshala and the National Service Scheme (NSS). The performances will showcase the contribution of youth in nation-building, social service and character formation.

Rajnath Singh’s Message to Cadets

Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the NCC Republic Day Camp and described NCC cadets as the nation’s “second line of defence.” He urged young people to draw inspiration from their role in spreading public awareness during nationwide mock drills conducted as part of Operation Sindoor.

Addressing the cadets at Delhi Cantonment, Singh said that in an increasingly uncertain global environment, India’s youth must remain physically, mentally and emotionally
strong to face emerging challenges.

Recalling Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister said Indian Armed Forces carried out targeted strikes against terrorists based in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that the forces acted with courage and restraint, targeting only those responsible for harming the country.

Role of NCC in Nation-Building

Rajnath Singh highlighted the NCC as a powerful platform for youth development, stating that it instils discipline, patriotism and focus. He said the organisation teaches patience, consistency and concentration—qualities essential for handling life’s major challenges and fulfilling national responsibilities.

According to the Defence Minister, these values remain relevant irrespective of career choices, whether cadets join the armed forces or pursue professions such as medicine, engineering, teaching, science, administration or politics.