‘NCC syllabus revamped with focus on tech and innovation’

During his two-day visit to NCC Directorate Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Secunderabad, NCC director-general Lt. Gen. Gurbirpal Singh reviewed training progress, addressed cadets and spoke about the organisation’s new syllabus revamp, increasing gender parity and the integration of technology. In an interview with The Hindu, he discusses his vision for the National Cadet Corps and how the force is evolving.

What was the primary objective of your visit to Telangana?

This is one of our biggest NCC directorates, with over 1.2 lakh cadets. The main aim of my visit was to conduct a routine check on how training has progressed over the past year, and I am very happy with the standard and performance. Apart from that, I wanted to personally brief the cadets and the staff about several new initiatives we have launched, both in terms of training and cadet emoluments.

What kind of initiatives has NCC introduced recently?

We have gone in for a major revamp of our syllabus, largely based on feedback from cadets. We are also using technology more actively in our training programmes. We now offer introductory capsules in areas like simulation-based training, innovation and ideation. We are collaborating with institutions like NPCI and DRDO to expose cadets to cutting-edge domains. While we cannot train all cadets in specialised areas, we provide them the base from where they can pursue their interests further, either within defence or in civilian careers.

What is the current status of gender parity in NCC?

I am happy to share that we have touched 40% women participation. There is absolutely no gender gap in the NCC today. From enrolment to training to opportunities, everything is open equally to both boys and girls. All I tell cadets is, come, perform and move ahead.

Is there a plan to expand NCC to areas in Telangana where enrolment is still low?

Yes, we are increasing our national cadet strength to 3 lakh. There is a proportionate increase in States like Telangana. We are in constant touch with State authorities to identify locations where new units can be raised. Vacancies are being allocated accordingly to both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

What kind of feedback have you received from cadets during this visit?

The enthusiasm among cadets is overwhelming. There is strong demand for NCC enrolment across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Many cadets are keen to join the Armed Forces, and they expect us to train them not just physically, but to prepare them mentally for future challenges. We take this very seriously and will keep working to strengthen our role as a preparatory ground for defence and public service careers.