Overview
- Speaking at the Cariappa Parade Ground, the prime minister began by expressing condolences over the Maharashtra plane crash that killed Ajit Pawar and others.
- The rally concluded the month-long NCC Republic Day Camp 2026 with 2,406 cadets participating, including 898 girls, alongside 207 youth and officers from 21 countries.
- This year’s theme, “Rashtra Pratham – Kartavya Nishtha Yuva,” underscored duty, discipline and national commitment among young people.
- Modi called the NCC a movement that builds character and civic responsibility, praising cadet contributions including during Operation Sindoor, as leaders earlier described the corps as a ‘second line of defence.’
- He highlighted growth in NCC strength in recent years, urged fitness and community service, and presided over a programme featuring cultural performances and attendance by senior ministers.