Umesh Varma (Senior Photojournalist)
Nagpur | April 29, 2026: “Mastering Drones and Cyber Security is not just the geographical heart of India; it is now set to become the ‘Center of Excellence’ that will give wings to the dreams of NCC cadets across the nation.” These inspiring words were shared by Major General Vivek Kumar Tyagi, Additional Director General (ADG) of NCC Maharashtra, during a special press conference held today. On the first day of his three-day administrative visit, the Major General unveiled a transformative roadmap for the youth and the future of the NCC.

Mastering Drones and Cyber Security

Major General Tyagi announced that a state-of-the-art ‘Drone Training Academy’ is being established in Nagpur. This academy will be unique as it focuses on creating ‘Master Drone Trainers’—cadets and instructors who will go on to train others across various divisions in India. Recognizing the digital age’s challenges, he also highlighted a dedicated ‘Cyber Awareness’ initiative and tech-based skilling, ensuring that cadets are not just physically fit but technologically superior and ready for the future.

Nagpur: A Nursery for Future Officers and Leaders

The Major General expressed immense pride in the dedication of Nagpur’s youth. He revealed that in just the past few months, 12 to 14 cadets from Nagpur alone have successfully cleared their boards to join the Armed Forces as officers. Whether through the Agniveer scheme, the Armed Forces, or the Maharashtra Police, NCC cadets are leading the way with the motto of ‘Nation First.’ He also noted that the training of civil staff, such as Girl Cadet Instructors (GCI) and Caretaker Officers (CTO) at the Officer Training Academy (OTA) in Kamthi, is playing a pivotal role in expanding the NCC’s reach

Meeting the Surge in Demand: 160 Institutions on Waiting List

The growing craze for the NCC among today’s youth is evident: currently, 160 schools and colleges in Nagpur are on the waiting list to start NCC units. To meet this demand, Major General Tyagi called upon the State Government for support in building a World-Class NCC Academy in Nagpur. He emphasized that the goal is not just to reach the milestone of 1.5 lakh cadets, but to reach the most remote areas of Maharashtra, transforming every student into a confident, resilient, and patriotic leader.

Empowering Daughters and Global Exposure

A significant highlight of the briefing was the rising strength of women in the corps, with the gender ratio now approaching 60:40. Through the ‘Youth Exchange Program,’ cadets are also interacting with international students, gaining global perspectives and representing India’s diversity. Major General Tyagi concluded by stating that the NCC is more than just a career path; it is a workshop that builds character, discipline, and the best version of a human being.