The formation of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) under the NCC Act, 1948 was a major milestone for the development of the student community. With its motto of " Unity and Discipline", the NCC has become instrumental in molding the character and imparting in our children a dynamic outlook during their school

and college education. The Corps has expanded its horizons and now aims at developing character qualities amongst cadets and making them into good leaders and useful citizens so that they can take their appropriate place in all walks of life in the service of the nation. The qualities of leadership, discipline, espirit-de-corps, courage and confidence with a secular outlook, which are the hallmarks of good and useful citizens, are inculcated in the cadets through a well conceived programme of institutional training combined with adventure sports and outdoor activities. The progress and quality of training is reviewed and changes incorporated to bring about improvements.

2. The NCC celebrated its 49th anniversary on November 23, 1997 and entered its "Golden Jubilee Year" that day. Currently the NCC's presence can be felt in most districts of the country. The total strength of NCC cadets now stands at approximately 11.6 lakhs. The wingwise distribution of the enrolled cadet strength is as follows:

• Army Wing - 8,92,911

• Air Wing - 65, 450

• Naval Wing - 65, 050

• Girl cadets(All Wings) - 1,39,957