Defence Minster Felicitates NCC Bravehearts

Defence Minister Shri A K Antony has said that National Cadet Corps is doing a Yeoman Service to the Nation by transforming the ‘Youth of the Nation’, which has the largest and youngest population profile in the world. Addressing the NCC cadets here today during his visit to DG NCC Republic Day Camp-2013, he said that NCC has made an effective contribution in channelizing the energy of the youth into constructive activities through adventure and sports activities. In fact, adventure activities are one of the major attractions for students joining NCC.  Shri Antony also complimented the Cadets for their superlative performance at Guard of Honour, Band Display and Cultural programme. He also mentioned that NCC in itself is an Institution dedicated to create `Leaders of Tomorrow`, encouraging them to discover their true calling, honing their abilities to pursue their dreams and foray into the world as empowered, responsible and true citizen. By consistent training effort of NCC, a New Order is emerging ready to don the mantle of the country`s leadership besides immensely contributing towards Nation Building.  Earlier Shri Antony conferred RakshaMantriPadak and Commendations to select NCC Cadets for their exemplary courage and devotion to duty in an impressive `Investiture Ceremony` held at the Camp.Cadets HemrajGurjar and Cadet ShahidaTeli of Rajasthan Directorate were awarded the RakshaMantriPadak for their extraordinary performance much beyond the call of duty, dedication, and display of great presence of mind coupled with exemplary courage and utter disregard to their personal safety in rescuing a lady drowning in JalMahal lake, at Jaipur, while they were attending Annual Training Camp during September last year.  Senior Under Officer Baber Ali of Jammu & Kashmir Directorate was awarded RakshaMantri Commendation Card for selfless sacrifice and display of strong fortitude and resolute while encountering blizzards during NCC Mountaineering Expedition. Petty Officer Cadet Prasad Kumar Das of Odisha Directorate was awarded RakshaMantri Commendation Card for displaying indomitable spirit and extraordinary courage during rescue of a Boat Crew of a Boat that had capsized during Ocean Sailing Expedition in Feb 2012 at Paradip Beach. Senior Under Officer AngadSahlot of Delhi Directorate was also awarded RakshaMantri Commendation Card for his tenacious mental and physical fortitude, consistency, and outstanding performance at Equestrian sports by wining many laurels for the country during National and International Meets.  The Investiture Ceremony was followed by enchanting, melodious rendition by Cadets Band of North Eastern Region and mixed band of Scindia School and Sainik School Kapurthala dressed in their vibrant multi coloured attire and lithe movements. Hon`bleRakshaMantri visited the `Flag Area` then, where he was briefed by Cadets on their respective colourful Tableaux of State contingents depicting various contemporary socio-economic themes elaborately illustrated and brilliantly displayed.  Later Shri Antony was presented with an impressive Cultural programme showcasing the rich and diverse cultural heritage and National Integration.