The National Cadet Corps (NCC) commemorated its 78th Raising Day on November 23, 2025, marked by a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, attended by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and DG NCC Lt Gen Virendra Vats. The NCC, which has grown from 20,000 cadets at its inception in 1948 to 20 lakh cadets today, emphasizes its significant role in nation-building and youth development, with operations in 713 of India’s 780 districts. Nationwide, cadets engaged in public service activities, including blood donation drives and environmental initiatives, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility. The Defence Secretary praised the NCC’s evolving curriculum, which includes disaster-response training and cyber education, underscoring its aim to prepare youth for future challenges and contribute to a developed India, or Viksit Bharat.