Rajnath Singh gives away Raksha Mantri Padak and Commendation Cards to cadets

“As the world is going through a period of uncertainty, our youth must remain physically, mentally & emotionally strong and be prepared to take on every challenge,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh as he exhorted the youngsters to draw inspiration from the brave and dedicated NCC cadets who played a vital role in raising public awareness when mock drills were conducted across the country during Operation Sindoor.

Addressing the cadets at the NCC Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantt on January 24, 2026, he described them as the nation’s second line of defence who played their part exceptionally well when the nation rallied behind its Armed Forces during the operation. “Indian Armed Forces destroyed terrorists based in Pakistan and PoK, which was a befitting reply to the unfortunate and cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Our soldiers acted with courage and restraint. We targeted and destroyed only those who hurt us, not anyone else. This was possible as they are strong physically, mentally, and emotionally, he said.

Rajnath Singh termed NCC as an excellent medium to upgrade the youth who, in turn, make their invaluable contribution to nation-building. “The world is selling comfort today. Video games, food delivery, and other such things are meant to bring comfort to human life. Through parades, drills, and camps, NCC helps to break you out of that comfort zone, making a cadet mentally strong. In addition, the children learn many life skills which can help them to protect themselves and others during disasters,” he said.(updated on 24th january 2026)