Manmohan Singh says strength of NCC will be increased from 13 to 15 lakhs

NEW DELHI - Commending the National Cadet Corps (NCC) for their praiseworthy role in grooming the country’s youth, the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, on Friday said that the NCC is a proud symbol of national integration and of the values of discipline, patriotic service and team work.

Addressing the NCC rally here, Dr. Singh said: “The work of the NCC shows that diversity in our society does not cause differences but rather is a source of strength and vitality. The multitude of talent, experience and learning in the NCC are a great resource for the country.”

The Prime Minister disclosed that in recognition of the good work done by the National Cadet Corps, the Government has sanctioned an enhancement in its authorized cadet strength from 13 lakh to 15 lakh.

The Prime Minister further said that we should inculcate values in our children that foster teamwork and a sense of service to the society we live in.

“I believe that value education is a vitally important part of our upbringing and organizations such as the NCC should show the way forward. NCC cadets should set an example of working with local communities,” he said.

Urging the cadets to follow the footsteps of Swami Vivekananda, who believed in the power of youth, Dr. Singh said: “This is a time in your life when you should test your physical endurance and expand your mental horizons. I am very happy that NCC cadets have excelled in mountaineering, trekking and sailing and won laurels in various shooting competitions at the national and international levels.”

“I have travelled to many countries but rarely have I come across young men and women who are brighter, better informed and more infused with hope, passion and values, than in India,” he added. (ANI)