The Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat – II Maharashtra Camp was conducted with great enthusiasm and national spirit from 08 to 19 December 2025 at NCC Officers Training Academy (OTA), Kamptee. Organised by 4 Maharashtra Battalion NCC under the aegis of NCC Group Headquarters Nagpur, the camp stood as a vibrant celebration of India’s unity in diversity.
A total of 600 NCC cadets participated in the camp, including 450 cadets from the Maharashtra Directorate and 150 SD/SW cadets from the Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Directorates. Cadets hailed from Kolhapur, Mumbai ‘A’ and ‘B’, Sambhaji Nagar, Pune, Nagpur, and Amravati Groups, and were guided by 35 NCC and Armed Forces officers and staff.
One of the most impactful segments of the camp was the National Integration Awareness Programme (NIAP). Cadets from all participating groups and guest Directorates showcased their rich history, culture, traditions, festivals, and eminent personalities through informative presentations and colourful cultural performances. The cross-cultural evening held on 17 December was a visual and emotional highlight, beautifully portraying India’s cultural harmony through traditional dance, music, and folk art.
To enhance military awareness and national pride, cadets undertook educational and exposure visits to Air Force Station Sonegaon, Sitabuldi Fort, and the Brigade of the Guards. These visits provided valuable insights into the training, operational readiness, heritage, and ethos of the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army.
The camp schedule also featured a wide range of competitions including debate, extempore, poster making, sketching, and rangoli, alongside sports events such as cricket, volleyball, kho-kho, and other field activities. These events promoted physical fitness, teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition. Cadets further experienced the flavours of Maharashtrian and Tamil cuisine, symbolising cultural exchange beyond performances.
Skill development and personality enhancement sessions were conducted by a 10-member EXPA team, adding depth to the learning experience. The innovative Buddy Triplet System, which paired host cadets with guest cadets, proved instrumental in fostering close bonds, mutual respect, and lasting friendships across regions.
The organisers expressed sincere gratitude to NCC OTA Kamptee, Brigade of the Guards, UMANG Sub Area, Kamptee Military Station, Air Force Station Sonegaon, HQ Maintenance Command, PRO Defence, and all NCC units under NCC Group Headquarters Nagpur for their steadfast support and cooperation.
The camp concluded on a high note, leaving behind cherished memories, strengthened inter-state camaraderie, and a renewed commitment among cadets to uphold the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
