The all-girl NCC band that will take part in the 2024 NCC Republic Day Camp. (India Sentinels photo via special arrangement.)
New Delhi: For the first time ever, an all-girl band from the northeast will participate in the National Cadet Corps Republic Day Camp, this year. This historic event is a testament to the NCC’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India’s northeast region, the defence ministry said in a news release on Wednesday.
The band will comprise 45 girls aged 13–15 belonging to various states across the northeast. They will perform traditional music and dances from their respective regions, which will provide a glimpse into the vibrant culture of this often-overlooked part of India.
The NCC Republic Day Camp is a monthlong event that brings together cadets from all over India for a variety of activities, including drills, parades, and cultural events. This year’s camp will be particularly special, as it will also host cadets and officers from 25 friendly countries under the Youth Exchange Programme (YEP).
The aim of the camp is to provide cadets with exposure to the rich traditions of India and to strengthen their value systems. The camp will also promote national integration and unity in diversity through cultural exchange programs.
During a news conference held at the Delhi Cantonment, Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh, director general of the NCC, said, “We are very excited to have an all-girl band from the northeast participating in this year’s Republic Day Camp,” adding, “This is a great opportunity for the girls to showcase their talents and to represent the rich cultural heritage of their region. We hope that their participation will inspire other young girls to join the NCC.”
Lt Gen Singh also said the camp will promote national integration and strengthen unity in diversity through cultural exchange programmes.
Several dignitaries, including the vice-president, defence minister, junior defence minister, chief of defence staff, and the three service chiefs, will visit the camp.
The NCC has a long history of promoting gender equality and inclusivity. In recent years, the organization has made a concerted effort to reach out to girls and young women, and to encourage them to participate in its various programmes. The participation of the all-girl band from the northeast is a further step in this direction.
The NCC Republic Day Camp 2024 is sure to be a memorable event for all participants. The camp will provide cadets with a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures, to make new friends, and to develop their leadership skills. The presence of the all-girl band from the northeast will add an extra special touch to the camp and will serve as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and diversity.
