JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the integral role of youth in nation-building while addressing NCC cadets of the Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh Directorate, who recently returned from the Republic Day Camp in New Delhi.
“The true meaning of a developed society and nation extends beyond infrastructure, technology, or economic progress. It also reflects strong character, social values, and a united social fabric,” the Lieutenant Governor said. He emphasized that the nation’s identity emerges from the conduct, thinking, and mutual trust of its citizens, and that the youth are the key drivers of this transformative wealth.
“At the heart of a developed nation stands youth power. Young people constitute the most energetic, creative, and transformative force of any country. Youth are the drivers of change,” he added.
Sinha lauded the National Cadets Corps (NCC) for nurturing young talent, promoting selfless service, and fostering leadership. He noted that since 1948, the NCC has provided a platform for youth from diverse backgrounds to unite for a shared purpose through camps, training, cultural programmes, and social initiatives, instilling discipline, teamwork, and service.
The Lieutenant Governor stressed that a developed society can only emerge when young people prioritize duty over convenience and the welfare of society over personal gain. He urged NCC cadets to focus on self-development, explaining that individual growth directly contributes to national progress.
Highlighting the importance of unity, Sinha said, “Cadets of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh NCC Directorate bear the responsibility of strengthening brotherhood. Eliminate walls of region, language, caste, and religion through collective work. Development is not limited to ‘I’ but truly connected to ‘we’.”
He also emphasized ethical leadership and social responsibility as cornerstones for contributing to various sectors, including IT, education, industry, armed forces, and culture. The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the Directorate for incorporating drone technology into training, stating that such initiatives represent not only the future but also the present strength of the nation.
The Lieutenant Governor felicitated the cadets with Certificates of Excellence for their outstanding contributions to the Republic Day contingent. A total of 128 cadets from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh participated in the celebration.
Among the distinguished achievers:
- SUO Arpundeep Kour (3 J&K Battalion, Baramulla) was conferred with the Raksha Mantri Padak for exceptional leadership during Op SINDOOR.
- Lieutenant Ruksana Kousar received the Chief of Army Staff Commendation for her dedication.
- The Directorate also secured 11 DG NCC Medallions and Commendation Cards.
- Cadet Tawheed Altaf (7 J&K Battalion) served as Parade Commander of the All India NCC Boys Contingent at Kartavya Path.
- Cadet Samriti Kalhuria (8 J&K Battalion) had the rare honour of serving as pilot to the Hon’ble Prime Minister during the PM Rally.
In recognition of its consistent performance and rapid transformation, the NCC Directorate Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh was awarded the Director General’s Most Improved Directorate Award and achieved a notable position at the All-India level during Republic Day 2026.
Maj Gen A. Bevli, VSM, Additional Director General of J&K and Ladakh Directorate, along with senior officers, instructors, and officials of Lok Bhavan, were present on the occasion.
