NCC to train 1 lakh 'Yuva Apda Mitras,' 10,000 cyber warriors; targets 20 lakh strength by 2028

• NCC plans to train 1 lakh cadets as 'Yuva Apda Mitras' (first responders for natural disasters) and 10,000 'cyber warriors' for digital defence, integrating them with national databases.
• The organization aims to increase its strength from 17 lakh to 20 lakh by 2028; girls currently form 40% of the total cadets.
• For the first time, NCC parade and contingent commanders will march carrying swords during the 2026 Republic Day Parade, aligning with military contingents.
• NCC is establishing 4-5 hubs nationwide to train selected cadets in drone and counter-drone aspects.
• The ongoing Republic Day Camp 2026 at Delhi Cantonment involves 2,406 cadets, including 898 girls and over 200 from 20+ friendly foreign countries.

Why It Matters: NCC expands its role, training cadets as disaster responders and cyber warriors, targeting 20 lakh strength by 2028.