The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, visited the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 at Delhi Cantt on January 19, 2026. He was accorded the Guard of Honour on his arrival by NCC cadets drawn from army, navy and air force wings.
During his address, Admiral Tripathi recalled his own days as an NCC cadet and congratulated the cadets on their selection for the prestigious Republic Day Camp. He applauded their outstanding parade turnout, precision drill, band performance, and cultural presentation - giving the display a “Bravo Zulu” in naval parlance.
Highlighting the pivotal role played by NCC in nurturing youth with values of patriotism, discipline, and social responsibility, CNS noted the exemplary contribution of nearly 72,000 NCC cadets in civil defence efforts during Operation Sindoor. The CNS appreciated the new and innovative training measures adopted by NCC, including initiatives related to drone operations and cyber awareness.
“India’s youth are a force for global good,” quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the CNS expressed his faith in the youth to shape Viksit Bharat by 2047. Drawn from his own service experience, he shared five life lessons with cadets to help them realise their full potential in life:
Staying away from distractions and practising self-discipline.
Continuous learning and upskilling to remain relevant in a fast-changing world.
Physical and moral courage in the face of challenges, drawing inspiration from heroes such as Lt Arun Khetarpal and Capt Mahendra Nath Mulla.
To become a team player – ‘One for all, all for one’.
Never Give Up
He reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s commitment to supporting NCC cadets for training through initiatives like Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, specialised training camps like All India Nausainik Camp, hands-on exposure to seamanship, sailing and yachting, ship attachments, overseas deployments, and educational visits to Indian Navy ships, submarines and shores.
Concluding his address, Admiral Tripathi urged the cadets to uphold the NCC ethos of unity, discipline, and integrity and lead a life dedicated to the nation. As part of the event, a band performance was displayed by cadets of Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani, Rajasthan Directorate.
After which, the CNS visited the Flag Area, depicting the rich culture, history and development of various states and union territories, followed by a technical and academic exhibit wherein cadets showcased static and functional models of ships and aircraft. A cultural show was also presented by NCC cadets through music and artistic performances reflecting the NCC motto, “Rashtriya Pratham, Kartavya Nishthh Yuva.