Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan on Tuesday visited the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 at Delhi Cantt and motivated young cadets to emerge as future leaders of a developed India. Addressing cadets and officers, General Chauhan said they would play a crucial role in building a Samridhh, Sashakt aur Surakshit Bharat by 2047.
Expressing pride in attending the Republic Day Camp for the fourth consecutive year, the CDS lauded the discipline, enthusiasm and high standards displayed by the cadets. He said the camp reflected a renewed sense of patriotism and energy among the youth each year.
Highlighting the importance of vision and determination, General Chauhan advised cadets to choose the right path early in life. “If you take the right path, you reach the right destination. It is important to choose the right path today,” he said, while encouraging them to consider a career in the armed forces. Calling the cadets the “future leaders of Viksit Bharat,” he urged them to contribute actively to the nation’s progress.
The CDS underlined the significance of January as a month of national importance, marked by key occasions such as National Youth Day on January 12 commemorating Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary, Veteran’s Day on January 14, Army Day on January 15, Parakram Diwas on January 23 celebrating Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary, Republic Day on January 26, and Martyr’s Day on January 30. He said these days collectively celebrate India’s independence, republican values and the true spirit of nationalism.
General Chauhan appreciated the crisp Guard of Honour presented by Army, Navy and Air Wing cadets, as well as the melodious band display by cadets of Sainik School Ghorakhal, Uttarakhand. He congratulated the cadets for a vibrant and diverse cultural programme and for spreading social awareness through activities in the ‘Flag Area’.
The CDS also lauded the cadets’ presentations on aero and naval models, drone displays and technological demonstrations, noting that these reflected their discipline, innovation and growing technological prowess.
Concluding his address, General Chauhan urged the cadets to act with urgency and not wait for tomorrow to pursue their goals. He encouraged them to remain positive and optimistic in life, reminding them that their actions today would shape the future of the nation.
