The National Cadet Corps (NCC), the world's largest volunteer organization of students, is set to incorporate a hi-tech drone course into its training regimen, alongside traditional drills and grueling ruck marches. The NCC plans to train its cadets in handling all types of drones, ranging from hexa-copters to fixed-wing aircraft, in addition to cybersecurity.
Nagpur Considered for National Drone Training Hub
Nagpur, due to its central location, is being considered for a drone training national hub, according to Additional Director General (ADG) for Maharashtra, Maj Gen Vivek Tyagi, speaking on Wednesday. 'Nagpur and Pune are expected to emerge as central and state hubs. Considering the changing times, it is needed to introduce newer training capsules for the cadets,' said Tyagi. He added that cadets will also be trained in cybersecurity.
'As drones have made way into several sectors, including defence, NCC feels that its cadets should be trained to handle the devices. Drones of various types would be procured for the NCC groups. The drone training would not be limited to the air wing alone. There are plans to procure flying machines even for army and naval wing NCC units,' Tyagi explained.
Training Program for Trainers Completed
The ADG also informed that a training program for trainers has already been completed, and a schedule for 170 cadets has been planned. A course on cybersecurity is also being designed.
Infrastructure Needs Highlighted
While Nagpur is being considered for the drone training national hub, the NCC has also flagged a dire need for improving infrastructure in the city. Tyagi noted that despite its presence for decades, the NCC does not have its own land in Nagpur. He has written a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting the dearth of infrastructure.
NCC comes under both state and central governments. Even as the latter has done its part, more needs to come from the state, Tyagi said. At present, the organization depends on educational institutions for requirements like ground for holding camps or other training in Nagpur.
Plans for New Academies and Expansion
Tyagi stated that the NCC plans to have academies in Nagpur, Mumbai, and the Konkan region. One academy has already been established at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). He also discussed expanding the NCC's presence in remote districts, including Gadchiroli.
During Operation Sindoor, as many as 75,000 cadets participated in civil defence activities. Maharashtra currently has 1.5 lakh NCC cadets, of which 40% are girls.
Grooming Cadets for SSB Interviews
The NCC is also planning to groom cadets for appearing before the Services Selection Board (SSB) interviews. This initiative would help candidates from remote areas understand the selection process and build confidence to face the interviews, said Major General Tyagi.
