Maharashtra Plans to Launch NCC-Inspired Training for Students from Class 1
Maharashtra Plans to Launch NCC-Inspired Training for Students from Class 1
In a significant move to instill discipline and patriotic values from an early age, the Maharashtra government is considering the introduction of NCC-style training for students beginning from Class 1. This proposal was recently discussed in detail at a high-level meeting chaired by School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, along with senior officials from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and the state education department.
The meeting, held at the Mantralaya, aimed to explore how such a program could be implemented in schools across the state. Emphasizing the importance of early character-building, Bhuse stated that the purpose of starting this initiative from the primary level is to shape students into responsible and value-driven citizens. “We want children to grow up with strong moral foundations and a deep respect for the nation. Training based on the NCC model can help nurture these qualities from a young age,” he shared during the discussion.
As part of the plan, school activities could include military-style drills and the singing of patriotic songs, especially during national celebrations like Independence Day. Bhuse also mentioned that this year’s Independence Day events in schools would feature patriotic-themed drills performed by students to reflect this vision.
The proposal includes a broader expansion of the NCC network in Maharashtra. Currently, 1,726 schools and colleges across the state offer NCC training, involving more than 1.14 lakh students. The state presently has seven NCC groups and 63 units. NCC officials informed the gathering that an additional ten centres are expected to be set up soon, allowing over 20,000 new students to enroll in the program.
However, one of the major challenges discussed was the shortage of NCC personnel needed to manage training on such a wide scale. To bridge this gap, the state is exploring the idea of involving retired military personnel. These veterans, through coordination with the ex-servicemen welfare board, could play a key role in supporting training efforts in schools that currently lack access to NCC instructors.
Senior officials present at the meeting included Education Secretary Ranjit Singh Deol, Education Commissioner Sachindra Pratap Singh, SCERT Director Rahul Rekhawar, NCC Director Janish George, Colonel Santosh Ghag, and Lieutenant Colonel Ajay Bhosale. Together, they deliberated on the logistical and infrastructural aspects required for the successful implementation of this initiative.
