Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, during an event on Monday, reflected on his inspiring journey from being a National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadet to leading the Indian Army.

Sharing the enrolment number 73727, which he held for seven years, General Dwivedi reflected on how his early days with the NCC helped shape his unique identity.

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General Dwivedi, who was speaking at the NCC Republic Day Camp, encouraged cadets to dream big and work relentlessly to become tomorrow’s “changemakers, innovators, and leaders.”

“Being a part of the NCC is more than just an affiliation; it becomes a way of life,” said the Army Chief. “The experiences you gain as cadets will lay the foundation for your future accomplishments and shape a distinct identity for each of you.”

Looking out over the gathering, General Dwivedi addressed the cadets, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of the country.

“As I see you today, I see not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the guardians of India’s rich heritage and future. You are an essential part of India’s transformative journey,” he added.

“Leadership opportunities in various sectors will soon be within your reach. Therefore, aspire to be the changemakers, innovators, and leaders who will shape the future.”

He also encouraged the cadets to believe in their potential, develop resilience, and let determination guide them on the path to excellence.

“Hard work and dedication will be your trusted companions as you strive to reach your goals,” Gen Dwivedi remarked.

Reflecting on his own NCC experience, the Army Chief said, “Seeing all of you in uniform takes me back to my days as a cadet. I still remember my NCC enrolment number, 73727, which I proudly held for seven years. The memories of those cherished years have stayed with me.”

General Dwivedi highlighted some of the remarkable achievements of NCC cadets, such as the entry of 100 boy cadets and 10 girl cadets into the army’s pre-commissioning training academies through NCC schemes in 2024, and the enlistment of over 8,800 NCC cadets as Agniveers.

He also commended their community service efforts, such as blood donation drives, environmental conservation, and raising awareness about social issues. “Your efforts demonstrate the strength of youth in making a tangible impact on nation-building,” he said.

The Army Chief also acknowledged the ambitious goal of an NCC team attempting to scale Mount Everest this year.

“I am proud to note that they are currently training at the Army Mountaineering Institute at the Siachen Base Camp. My best wishes are with them, and I look forward to seeing the NCC flag atop Mount Everest,” he said.