Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the recent Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union will benefit Indian startups by improving access to funding and will also boost India’s creative economy. Mr Modi was addressing the annual National Cadet Corps (NCC) PM’s Rally at the Cariappa Parade Ground in New Delhi this evening.
Mr Modi said that India has already signed several free trade agreements with countries including Oman, New Zealand, the UK, the UAE, Australia, and Mauritius, and emphasised that these pacts will generate vast opportunities for millions of young people. He said the youth of the country today are committed to a nation-first mindset.
The Prime Minister said, the NCC is a movement that makes India’s youth confident, disciplined and sensitive citizens dedicated to the nation. He said that today the world looks at India’s youth with great confidence, and this is because of their skills and culture. He noted that India’s youth are not only hardworking but also highly professional, and that is why they have great global demand. Mr Modi said that Indian doctors and engineers are building world-class healthcare systems and infrastructure in many countries, with teachers adding new values to societies abroad.
Extending greetings to the cadets and officers from across the country, Mr Modi noted that over the years, the strength of NCC has grown from 14 to over 20 lakh cadets, with increased participation from border and coastal areas. The Prime Minister expressed happiness as there has been a significant rise in the participation of girl cadets this year.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Operation Sindoor has demonstrated the strength and valour of India’s forces and armed personnel. He said that the Operation showcased how Indian indigenous weapons have become advanced and high-tech. Mr Modi said that Viksit Bhrat is not limited to economic prosperity alone and urged citizens to give the highest priority to fulfilling national duties.
He underlined that NCC not only teaches marching but also instils responsibility as citizens, imparting skills and values that help cadets become better citizens. Mr Modi proposed that NCC, NSS, and My Young India organisation hold an event every 25 January to honour first-time voters on the occasion of National Voters Day.
Further, the Prime Minister expressed grief over the demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar due to a tragic plane crash. He said that Mr Pawar made significant contributions to the development of Maharashtra and the nation and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of people in villages.
On the occasion, a vibrant cultural programme was presented by NCC cadets, members of Rashtriya Rangshala and National Service Scheme, showcasing their role in nation building, social service and character development.
The NCC PM Rally marks the grand culmination of the month-long NCC Republic Day Camp 2026, which witnessed the participation of 2 thousand 406 NCC cadets from across the country, including 898 girl cadets. A total of 207 youth and officers from 21 foreign countries participated in the rally. The theme of this year’s rally is Rashtra Pratham – Kartavya Nishth Yuva. Defence Minister Rajnath was also present on the occasion.
