NCC Celebrates 78th Raising Day with Nationwide Tributes and Service Campaigns

On November 23, 2025, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) marked its 78th Raising Day with patriotic fervour and widespread community engagement across the country. A day prior, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in New Delhi paid tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes, setting the tone for a celebration that highlighted NCC’s unmatched legacy of youth leadership and national service.

Honouring the Fallen at the National War Memorial

• On November 22, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and NCC Director General Lt Gen Virendra Vats laid wreaths at the memorial.
• Three Tri-Service NCC girl cadets also participated in the tribute, symbolising youth solidarity with the armed forces.
• The event concluded with an NCC band performance featuring cadets from Delhi schools, creating a ceremonial and emotional ambiance.

NCC’s Growth and National Footprint

From humble beginnings in 1948 with just 20,000 cadets, the NCC has grown into the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation, now boasting,

• 20 lakh cadets, including a growth of 6 lakh since 2014
• Representation in 713 out of 780 Indian districts, ensuring national reach and inclusivity

Community Engagement Across India

Across states and union territories, NCC cadets engaged in a host of service initiatives that demonstrated their commitment to society,

• Blood donation camps to support healthcare infrastructure
• Tree plantation drives for environmental sustainability
• ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ cleanliness campaigns
• Anti-drug awareness programmes under the Nasha Mukti Abhiyaan

These efforts reflect the NCC’s enduring emphasis on civic duty, environmental care, and public health.

Key Remarks and Innovations

At the event, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh lauded NCC’s initiatives in shaping India’s future leaders. Key highlights included,

• Apda Mitra disaster-response training for cadets
• A successful NCC Mt. Everest expedition

Introduction of Drone and Cybersecurity training modules, preparing cadets for emerging tech challenges

Static Facts

• Founded: 1948
• Current Cadet Strength: 20 lakh
• New Cadets Added Since 2014: 6 lakh
• District Presence: 713 out of 780
• 78th Raising Day: Celebrated on November 23, 2025
• Wreath-Laying Ceremony: Held on November 22, 2025
• Signature Initiatives: Apda Mitra, Nasha Mukti Abhiyaan, Drone & Cyber Training
• Global Rank: Largest uniformed youth organisation