TFP Bureau, New Delhi, December 30, 2025: The National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 formally commenced on Tuesday at the historic Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantt with the traditional Sarv Dharm Pooja, symbolising unity, harmony and respect for all faiths. The opening ceremony marked the beginning of a month-long camp that will culminate in the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26.
This year’s Republic Day Camp has recorded the highest participation to date, with a total of 2,406 cadets, including 898 girl cadets, drawn from 28 states and eight Union Territories. The camp brings together some of the finest NCC cadets from across the country, selected through a rigorous process, reflecting excellence in discipline, leadership and performance.
In addition to Indian cadets, officers and cadets from 25 Friendly Foreign Countries will also take part in RDC 2026 under the Youth Exchange Programme. Their participation is aimed at strengthening international cooperation, fostering mutual understanding and promoting cultural exchange among young people from different nations.
The month-long camp will feature a wide range of competitive and training activities, including inter-directorate competitions, the prestigious Best Cadet Competition, Small Arms Firing events, cultural programmes and leadership training modules. Selected cadets will also form part of the marching contingent for the Republic Day Parade, while others will be involved in activities such as Flag Area Designing at Kartavya Path.
Addressing the cadets on the opening day, Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, Director General of NCC, congratulated them on being selected for the prestigious Republic Day Camp. He described their selection as a matter of pride and responsibility, and urged them to uphold the highest standards of character, integrity and discipline. Emphasising the NCC ethos, he called upon cadets to demonstrate selfless service, comradeship and teamwork, transcending barriers of religion, language and caste, in the true spirit of “Nation First”.
The Republic Day Camp, held annually, is considered the pinnacle of NCC training activities. In line with the NCC motto of “Unity and Discipline”, the camp provides cadets with an opportunity to interact with peers from diverse cultural, linguistic and social backgrounds. Through training, competitions and cultural exchanges, the camp seeks to instil a deep sense of patriotism, leadership and national integration among young cadets.
Officials said RDC 2026 will continue to serve as a platform to groom future leaders while showcasing the strength, diversity and unity of India’s youth on the national stage.
