Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 3: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today praised the achievements of National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, emphasizing their remarkable representation during the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi.
The Chief Minister made these remarks during an interaction program organized for 127 NCC cadets from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh who participated in the 2025 Republic Day celebrations.
The event was attended by Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Director General of NCC Directorate Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh, Major General Anupinder Bevli, along with other senior army officers and dignitaries.
Highlighting the extraordinary feat of a Jammu and Kashmir girl cadet who commanded the all-women NCC contingent at the parade, the Chief Minister remarked, “This is not a small achievement. The images of her leading the contingent resonated globally, showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to discipline and unity.”
Addressing the cadets, CM commended their dedication and spirit they brought to the national stage.
The Chief Minister also lauded the cadets for their cultural performance, which won third prize among teams from across the country. “This achievement speaks volumes about your hard work and unity. Your cultural presentation infused with the rich traditions of our land captured the hearts of many and brought honor to J&K,” he added.
Reflecting on his personal experiences during his school days as NCC cadet, the Chief Minister shared, “Your triumph takes me back to my school days. While I never had the privilege of marching on Rajpath (Kartavya Path), my time as head boy and NCC cadet taught me invaluable lessons in leadership and discipline. The crisp commands, the camaraderie and the spirit of teamwork have stayed with me throughout my life.”
He underscored the transformative role of the NCC in shaping young minds. “The NCC is more than a program; it is a crucible that forges character. In today’s world, where young people face immense pressures-academic, social, and personal-your commitment to the NCC’s values of service and discipline is truly commendable,” he said.
He urged the cadets to cherish these opportunities, relations emphasizing their importance in shaping life values beyond the NCC. “These friendships will be your support system in times of challenge, the people who will stand by you when life tests your strength. They represent the spirit and unity of our nation, reminding you that no matter where you are or what you face, you are part of a larger family-a family that embodies Unity in Diversity,” he concluded.
Encouraging the cadets to be role models in their communities, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged them to take a stand against drug abuse and play their best role in combatting this menace.
On the occasion, several NCC cadets from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh shared their experiences from the Republic Day Camp in Delhi.