Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspected a National Cadet Corps rally on Friday at Cariappa Ground, New Delhi. The PM sported a dark green turban with a hackle, similar to the beret of the NCC uniform. The PM witnessed the Guard of Honour and a march past by NCC contingents.

The BJP leader also wore a Brahma Kamal cap, native to Uttarakhand, and a Manipuri stole during Republic Day celebrations. Both the states are gearing up for assembly elections.

The annual NCC rally is a part of the NCC Republic Day Camp, held every year on January 28. The Prime Minister witnessed cultural programmes and awarded medals to deserving cadets. Cadets also displayed skills like para-slithering, para-sailing, and army action.

In his address, the Prime Minister recounted his stint in the NCC.  “The training I got in NCC, what I have learnt, today I get immense strength for the discharge of my responsibilities towards the country.”

Also Read: UP elections 2022: Yogi Adityanath slams Opposition, calls them ‘worshippers of Jinnah’

He also said he was proud of former cadets who now serve in the  armed forces. The PM said, “Over one lakh new NCC cadets were added in border areas in the last two years.”

Also Read: Central Asia ‘central’ to India’s vision: PM Modi at India-Central Asia Summit

He further noted how women have been given more responsibilities in the forces of late, and he wished more women would serve in the NCC as well. 

“We all need to connect with the roots of India. We can change India’s future with your determination and support. Drug addiction destroys the life of youngsters, we need to fight against this,” he said.

A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on Thursday stated that the rally will be a culmination of the NCC Republic Day Camp.

The country celebrated its 73rd Republic Day on January 26. India is celebrating “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”, an initiative by the government to mark 75 years of growth and progress of the country.