New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Prime Minister’s Rally at Delhi Cantonment on Wednesday, marking the conclusion of the month-long NCC Republic Day Camp 2026. The Prime Minister will also address NCC cadets at the historic Cariappa Parade Ground.

A senior official said preparations for the event are complete, with the rally scheduled to begin around 3.30 pm. Contingency arrangements have also been put in place to address any weather-related disruptions.

The rally is being organised around the theme ‘Rashtra Pratham – Kartavya Nishth Yuva’, highlighting the ideals of duty, discipline and national service among the youth.

The NCC Republic Day Camp, which began on January 5, was inaugurated by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and brought together cadets from across the country. A total of 2,406 cadets, including 898 women, are participating in this year’s camp.

Adding an international dimension, over 200 cadets and officers from more than 20 friendly foreign nations—including Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Nepal and Malaysia—are also part of the camp.

Over the past month, cadets have taken part in a range of inter-directorate competitions and activities such as the Best Cadet Competition, small arms firing, and flag area design contests, aimed at fostering leadership, teamwork and discipline.

NCC contingents played a prominent role in the 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, with an all-women marching contingent leading the procession, followed by a combined band and an all-men marching contingent. Notably, NCC contingent leaders marched carrying ceremonial swords for the first time, on par with military contingents.

The PM Rally will also feature a colourful cultural programme presented by NCC cadets along with members of Rashtriya Rangshala and the National Service Scheme (NSS). The performances will highlight the role of youth in nation-building, social service and character development.

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During the camp, several senior leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and the chiefs of the three armed forces, interacted with and addressed the cadets, inspiring them to contribute meaningfully to the nation.