NCC to Train 1 Lakh Cadets as First Responders for Natural Disasters

NCC's Initiative for Disaster Response Training

New Delhi, Jan 3: The National Cadet Corps (NCC) is set to train 100,000 cadets to serve as first responders during natural calamities.

These cadets will be referred to as Yuva Apda Mitras and will be connected to a national database, ensuring their services can be mobilized when necessary, stated NCC Director General, Lt Gen Virendra Vats, during a press briefing at Delhi Cantonment on Saturday.

Additionally, the NCC is in the process of establishing four to five training hubs nationwide, focusing on drone operations and counter-drone strategies.

Moreover, there is an ongoing initiative to develop 10,000 cadets as 'cyber warriors' who will act as a digital defense force, given the increasing weaponization of the cyber domain, Vats explained.

These cyber warriors will also be integrated into the national database.

During the press conference, Vats revealed that for the first time, parade and contingent commanders of the NCC will carry swords during the Republic Day Parade in 2026.

Currently, 2,406 NCC cadets, including 898 girls, are participating in the National Cadet Corps' Republic Day Camp 2026, which commenced on December 30 at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment.