NCC girl cadets, experts inspire youth to stop tobacco usage

As many as 500 girl cadets of the 9 Punjab Battalion of NCC, Amritsar Group, took part in the ongoing annual training camp at ITI, Ramtirath. They participated in various events aligning with the spirit of ‘World No Tobacco Day’ to inspire youth to keep away from its addiction.

The day started with an insightful talk delivered by Major (Dr) Parminder Singh (Retd) of CHC, Lopoke. He provided detailed information regarding the importance of the day, harmful effects of tobacco consumption, diseases caused by its use and how to quit the same. He distributed free dental aids and also highlighted common dental ailments, their treatment and preventive measures.

Later, Brig KS Bawa, Group Commander of NCC, Amritsar Group, visited the camp wherein he inspected the Guard, interacted with the cadets and motivated them to come forward and volunteer for large numbers of opportunities being provided by the NCC.

He also motivated the cadets to join the armed forces by highlighting how 17 girl cadets passed from the National Defence Academy (NDA) after a rigorous training of three years. In a remarkable confluence of knowledge, inspiration and celebration, the cadets were also privileged to host Dr Pankaj Uppal, a senior professor and consultant neurosurgeon at SGRD Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, in a special event held under the ongoing guest lecture series. The talk focused on the power of the human brain, wellness and mindfulness.

Dr Uppal, known for his work in neurosurgery, treatment of head and spine injuries and brain tumours, addressed the cadets with an engaging and insightful session on brain wellness and mindfulness. He emphasised the brain’s role as the ‘motherboard of the body,’ drawing attention to the importance of mental health in personal growth and performance.

Following the lecture, Brigadier Bawa addressed the cadets with an inspiring message exhorting them to follow the values of discipline, resilience and leadership, adding that they should stay committed to their goals and to serve the nation with integrity. “The strength of a nation lies in the strength of its youth,” he remarked, emphasising that the NCC is a training ground for future nation builders.

Brigadier Bawa also resented a medallion to Dr Uppal for his insightful talk. Many cadets were also felicitated for their exceptional accomplishments in all activities, sports and leadership. This memorable event that celebrated knowledge, courage and commitment to nation building concluded with the spirited voices of all cadets rising for the NCC song.