New Delhi, 18 January (H.S.): In a stirring address Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth on Sunday exhorted National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets at the Republic Day Camp (RDC) in Delhi Cantt to embody the unyielding spirit of India's freedom fighters while forging a path toward a developed nation by 2047.

Sanjay Seth's visit commenced with a crisp Guard of Honour presented by the impeccably turned-out NCC cadets, immediately followed by a mesmerizing band performance from the cadets of The Scindia School, Gwalior.

This ceremonial welcome set the tone for an event brimming with discipline and youthful vigor, underscoring the camp's role as a crucible for nurturing future leaders.

Addressing a rapt audience of officers and cadets, the Raksha Rajya Mantri elevated Republic Day beyond its status as a mere national festival, portraying it as a profound homage to the Constitution and the sacrifices of India's freedom fighters.

He singled out the NCC cadets as the vital living bridge connecting the nation's glorious past with its luminous future, while lauding the RDC itself as a vivid testament to the discipline, unwavering commitment, and latent leadership potential inherent in India's youth.

In a clarion call for self-reliance,

Sanjay Seth urged the cadets to embrace a staunch Swadeshi mindset and prioritize indigenous innovation. He spotlighted the transformative surge in Indian startups—from a modest 800 to over 200,000 in recent decades—propelled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flagship Startup India initiative, which has catalyzed an entrepreneurial renaissance.

The Minister reserved special acclaim for 15 intrepid cadets who undertook the arduous Veer Birsa Munda Cyclothon, pedaling 1,300 kilometers from Ranchi to Delhi to propagate the ideals of national integration and the enduring legacy of tribal icon Veer Birsa Munda.

Equally, he commended 10 NCC cadets who scaled the formidable heights of Mount Everest in 2025, their triumph symbolizing the pinnacle of perseverance and national pride.

Concluding his remarks on an inspirational note, Sanjay Seth implored the cadets to anchor themselves in duty, patriotism, and constitutional values as they confront emerging challenges. He envisioned them channeling this resolve and diligence into realizing Viksit Bharat by 2047—a prosperous, self-assured India.

Extending heartfelt gratitude to NCC officers and instructors for molding the leaders of tomorrow, he invoked a collective pledge to safeguard the honor of the Tiranga through selfless service and integrity.

During the visit, Sanjay Seth meticulously toured the 'Flag Area,' an expansive display meticulously curated by cadets from all 17 NCC Directorates, each flag emblazoned with poignant themes of social awareness. He also explored the 'Hall of Fame,' where cadets eloquently recounted the NCC's storied history, rigorous training regimens, and a litany of illustrious achievements.

This engagement, hosted under the Ministry of Defence's auspices as part of the NCC Republic Day Camp 2026, reaffirms the organization's pivotal role in instilling values of unity, discipline, and nation-building among the youth.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar