Odisha to Expand NCC with More Cadets, Training Centers, and Aviation Program

Bhubaneswar: The National Cadet Corps (NCC) in Odisha is set for a major expansion, following a meeting between Lieutenant General Gurbirpal Singh, Director General of NCC, and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan on Monday. The discussion focused on increasing the number of cadets, enhancing training facilities, and introducing aviation training at Jharsuguda Airport to further develop the skills of NCC members in the state.

Currently, 60,000 cadets are enrolled in NCC across Odisha, and plans are in place to increase this number to 90,000. To achieve this, new NCC units will be set up in Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and other schools across the state. The expansion aims to provide more students with access to discipline, leadership training, and national service opportunities.

To enhance skill development among NCC cadets, the state government has decided to establish three new training centers in Cuttack, Berhampur, and Sambalpur. Five acres of land have already been identified for Cuttack and Berhampur, while 10 acres will be allocated for Sambalpur. These centers will equip cadets with advanced training infrastructure to improve their overall preparedness.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, NCC cadets in Odisha will receive aviation training at Jharsuguda Airport. The state government has sanctioned ₹1.5 crore for the construction of a hangar, which will facilitate practical exposure and skill development in aviation. This move is expected to boost interest in aeronautical careers among NCC cadets.

Recognizing the need for better administrative support, the Odisha government has also approved the establishment of an NCC Group Headquarters in Koraput. To ensure the smooth execution of this initiative, the government will provide officers and staff to manage its operations.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reiterated his government’s commitment to strengthening the NCC, calling it a prestigious institution that nurtures young talent and instills a sense of national service. He directed the administration to provide all necessary support to facilitate NCC’s expansion in Odisha.

To ensure seamless execution of these initiatives, Colonel Sagar Mohanty from the NCC and Arvind Agrawal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Higher Education Department, will coordinate efforts between the NCC and the state government.

The discussions were attended by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Nikunj Bihari Dhal, and senior officials from the NCC and state government.

The expansion of NCC in Odisha is expected to empower thousands of students, create leadership opportunities, and enhance skill development, strengthening Odisha’s contribution to national service.