Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for expansion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) with an addition of 3,00,000 cadets.
The expansion is expected to cater to the increasing demand for the NCC from educational institutions throughout the country, the defence ministry said.
"Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for expansion of the National Cadet Corps with the addition of three lakh cadet vacancies," it said.
"From just 20,000 cadets in 1948, the NCC will now have a sanctioned strength of 20 lakh cadets on its roles making it the largest uniformed youth organisation of the world," the ministry said in a statement.
It said the expansion plan encompasses the establishment of four new "Group Headquarters" and the addition of two new NCC units.
"With NCC being offered as an elective subject as per the National Education Policy 2020, the expansion will be a step towards meeting the aspirations of the youth towards playing a pivotal role as future leaders of the nation," the ministry said.
"The far reaching impact of this expansion will lead to proportionate distribution of vacancies across all States and Union Territories and would reduce the waiting list of institutions aspiring for the NCC," it said.
An important facet of the expansion plan involves the proposal for employment of ex-servicemen as NCC instructors for leveraging their skills and vast experience.
"This noble initiative will ensure quality training to the NCC cadets and would generate employment opportunities for the veterans," the ministry said.
It said the expansion signifies a dedication to shaping future leaders embodying discipline, leadership and service.
"The NCC aims to make a transformative impact, fostering an environment where youth meaningfully contribute towards nation building," it said.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
Featured Video Of The Day
India's Defence Exports To Touch Rs 50,000 Crore In 2029-30: Rajnath Singh "Giving Befitting Reply": Rajnath Singh On Recent Terror Attacks In J&K "Not A Small Development": Rajnath Singh On India-China Border Disengagement India A "Cyber Adversary", Says Trudeau Government, New Delhi Shreds Claim 'Will Return With...': Swati Maliwal Pours Dirty Water Outside Atishi's Home 19 Injured In Rocket Strike On Building In Israel's Arab Town Of Tira The Impact Of The World's Richest Man On US Democracy GATE 2025: Application Correction Deadline Extended, Details Here Fire Breaks Out At Factory In Delhi's Alipur, 34 Fire Tenders Rushed Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.