Gandhinagar, Feb 7 (NationPress) The National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from Gujarat, who represented the state during the 77th Republic Day festivities in New Delhi, received accolades from Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel at an 'At Home Ceremony' held at Lok Bhavan in Gandhinagar on Saturday.

The Gujarat NCC Republic Day Contingent returned on January 30 after participating in the training camp.

During the camp, the cadets engaged in national-level activities, including the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, the Guard of Honour, the Prime Minister's Rally, and cultural performances, all while maintaining exemplary standards of discipline and execution.

In his address to the cadets, the Chief Minister remarked, "NCC is not merely an organization, but a school that imparts an ideal way of life founded on unity and discipline."

He further emphasized, "Without discipline, neither individuals nor nations can thrive," stating that the training provided by the NCC is essential in shaping character and responsibility from a young age.

During the ceremony, Certificates of Excellence were presented to nine cadets in recognition of their outstanding achievements.

Chief Minister Patel also unveiled the Cadet Journal-2026 and awarded the Inter Group Championship Banner to NCC Rajkot for its exceptional performance across various NCC activities throughout the year.

Congratulating the cadets, he stated, "NCC empowers the youth of the nation with confidence, discipline, sensitivity, and the spirit of 'Nation First.'"

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he noted that the lessons of unity and discipline learned early in life are pivotal for leadership and public service.

"The Prime Minister is steering the nation with the same spirit of service and commitment," he added.

The Chief Minister highlighted that NCC cadets contribute significantly beyond ceremonial roles, having "shouldered responsibilities not only on the parade ground but also in social service."

He praised their commendable efforts in disaster relief, cleanliness drives, environmental conservation, and blood donation initiatives.

He mentioned that the conduct, attire, punctuality, and commitment of NCC cadets serve as a model for society and that the NCC embodies the vision of 'Ek Bharat – Shreshtha Bharat.'

"When youth from across India train together, perform drills, and stand beneath the national flag, this spirit is only strengthened," he added.

Chief Minister Patel noted the enhanced reputation of Gujarat's NCC cadets through their participation in national events, attributing their success to continuous discipline, teamwork, and unity.

He reiterated that the NCC is "not merely an institution that teaches how to march," but one that instills the ability to move together as one.

He also observed that the number of NCC cadets nationwide has surged from 14 lakh to 20 lakh in recent years.

The Additional Director General of Gujarat NCC, Major General Bimal Monga, detailed the NCC activities in the state and expressed gratitude for the support from the Gujarat government.

The ceremony was attended by brigadiers from NCC headquarters in Vadodara, Jamnagar, Vidyanagar, and Ahemdabad, along with NCC cadets.