Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre today commended the role of the National Cadet Corps, NCC in propagating the ideals of secularism, national integration, selfless service and generating patriotic values amongst the youth of the nation. He also lauded the efforts of the cadets in making the organisation a cohesive, disciplined and vibrant one synonymous with unity in diversity and the spirit of a secular and united India. <br/><br/>Speaking on the occasion of NCC Republic Day Camp-2017 at Delhi Cantt, the Minister appreciated the NCC in carving a niche for itself as a unique organisation in nation building and grooming future leaders. He said, the recent initiatives undertaken by the Director General, NCC in making the NCC an elective subject in schools and colleges, are progressive steps in the right direction. <br/><br/>Complimenting the achievements made by the NCC cadets, he specially mentioned the successful scaling of Mt. Everest by the Girl Cadets. Dr. Bhamre also noted with pride the efforts of the NCC cadets to spread awareness on the benefits and modalities of cashless transactions in society.<br/><br/>The Republic Day Camp is being attended by 2068 cadets including 696 girl cadets specially selected from 17 Directorates covering all the States and Union Territories and foreign cadets from 10 friendly foreign countries under the NCC Youth Exchange Programme.