Chief of the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, on Thursday, visited the NCC Republic Day Camp 2026, where he praised the cadets for their contribution during Operation Sindoor, and said the military action reinforced the message that life is not just about earning money or personal pursuits, but also doing something for the nation.
The annually convened camp is being held at the Delhi Cantonment.
The IAF chief urged the cadets to continue giving their best for the country, irrespective of whether they join the armed forces later or pursue other professions.
"So, whether you are a soldier or a military leader in uniform, or a regular citizen, give your best and contribute to nation-building. Operation Sindoor has brought a lot of awareness. It is not just about earning money or doing things only for oneself in life, it is equally important to do something for the country," he asserted.
Operation Sindoor was carried out by the Indian armed forces in the early hours of May 7, 2025, targeting terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives last April.
A large number of NCC cadets assisted in emergency drills, blood donation camps and other civil defence activities during the operation, officials said.
A total of 2,406 NCC cadets, including 898 girls, from across the country are participating in the nearly month-long camp, which was inaugurated on Monday by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan. It will culminate with the NCC PM Rally on January 28.
The IAF chief, in his address, described NCC cadets as the "best among the youth" who are contributing to nation-building driven by values of unity, discipline and integrity.
He lauded the role played by the NCC in shaping disciplined, patriotic and value-driven citizens.
The air chief marshal highlighted the tremendous presence of NCC across the country, making it the largest uniformed organisation in the world, with girl cadets comprising around 40 per cent of its total current strength.
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