Vice-President briefed on National Cadet Corps and Sainik Schools by Ministry of Defence

**Executive Summary** On July 13, 2026, Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan was briefed by the Ministry of Defence on the growth of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and the expansion of Sainik Schools. The briefing highlighted the need for enhanced infrastructure and greater state-level participation to meet growing student demand. Key action items include exploring increased intake capacities and aiming for three to five Sainik Schools per state. **Key Points / Main Content** * **National Cadet Corps (NCC) Development** * The NCC has grown into a youth organization of nearly 20 lakh members focused on nation-building and training. * Key integration initiatives include the *Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat* Camps. * The organization remains active in community service through the *Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan* and *Swachh Bharat Abhiyan*. * The establishment of the NCC Alumni Association was formally recognized as a positive development. * **Infrastructure and State Cooperation** * Strengthening the NCC is identified as a "shared national responsibility" requiring better coordination with State Governments. * Specific focus is needed on land acquisition and the development of training infrastructure. * The Vice-President committed to supporting engagement with the States to facilitate these requirements. * **Sainik Schools Expansion** * The network currently operates through both existing models and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models. * To address high demand from parents and students, each State is encouraged to aim for three to five Sainik Schools. * Authorities are tasked with exploring the possibility of increasing the student intake capacity at existing schools. **Impact Analysis** **Ministry of Defence** * **Impact:** Tasked with overseeing the growth of the NCC and the roadmap for Sainik School expansion. * **Action Required:** Implement the roadmap for strengthening the network and explore capacity increases in existing institutions. **State Governments** * **Impact:** Required to play a larger role in supporting national youth and educational programs. * **Action Required:** Coordinate on issues regarding land allocation, infrastructure development, and aim to establish three to five Sainik Schools per state. **National Cadet Corps (NCC)** * **Impact:** Expected to continue expanding its 20-lakh-strong membership while maintaining national integration and community service programs. * **Action Required:** Utilize the NCC Alumni Association and upgraded infrastructure to enhance training and nation-building initiatives. **Students and Parents** * **Impact:** Affected by the current high demand and limited availability of seats in specialized educational institutions. * **Action Required:** No direct action required, though they stand to benefit from increased intake capacities and a wider network of schools.

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