19 UP Battalion National Cadet Corps (NCC), Lucknow successfully wrapped up its 10 day Combined Annual Training Camp (CATC) in Lucknow. The CATC held at No 1 MT Battalion of AMC Centre and College in Lucknow Cantonment left an indelible mark on the 700 girl cadets who participated.
The camp inaugurated by Colonel Deepak Kumar, Commanding Officer of the Battalion on 29 July 2024 was an amalgamation of diverse participation and comprehensive training bringing together an impressive array of 216 Junior Wing cadets (ages 12-15) from local schools and 484 Senior Wing cadets (ages 16-20) from intermediate and degree colleges of Lucknow district. Divided into six companies, these enthusiastic cadets engaged in a wide range of activities designed to foster personal development and national pride.
The cadets went through an especially curated leadership regimen where they could hone their decision-making and team-management skills through various individual and team events. Rigorous physical training and drill in the morning helped cadets improve their stamina, strength, and overall bearing. During the remaining portion of the day, map reading, weapon training, field craft, tent pitching, disaster management, first aid and lifesaving skills were taught to the cadets through theoretical and practical classes. In the evening cadet appointments were specially tasked to organise and conduct team games, roll calls and cultural events.
During the CATC the girl cadets learned the value of giving back to society through hands-on volunteer work by planting more than 700 trees in the cantonment as part of ‘one cadet-one tree’ and ‘ek ped maa ke naam’ initiative. Insightful lectures by eminent experts from Uttar Pradesh Police,
Fire, Traffic and Cyber-crime departments enabled cadets to gain valuable knowledge. Besides, cadets gained from talks by experts on personality development. A talk by Army Recruiting Organisation, Lucknow was organised to create awareness among the cadets on opportunities in the Armed Forces for girls. The final day at the camp witnessed a vibrant cultural programme prepared by the cadets followed by prize distribution and customary high feast called ‘Bada-Khana’.
Brigadier Neeraj Punetha, Commander of the Lucknow NCC group visited the CATC on August 6th. In his motivational address, he commended the cadets for their dedication and hard work, encouraging them to carry the NCC ethos throughout their lives. “The commitment and enthusiasm I’ve witnessed here are truly inspiring,” the Commander stated. “These young cadets represent the bright future of our nation, and I have no doubt they will make significant contributions to society.”
As the camp concluded on 7 Aug 2024, the air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. The skills and values instilled during these ten days will undoubtedly shape the future of these 700 girl cadets, preparing them for leadership roles in various sectors of society. As these cadets return to their schools and colleges, they carry with them not just memories, but a renewed sense of purpose and the knowledge to make a positive impact in the society.
