Srinagar, June 26 (JKNS): The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, today addressed a vibrant gathering of 340 NCC cadets and Associate NCC Officers (ANOs) from across the country at the Special National Integration Camp (SNIC) 2025, held at Badami Bagh Cantonment, Srinagar.
The prestigious event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Ms. Sakeena Masood, Minister of Education; Mr. Satish Sharma, Minister of Youth Services and Sports; Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister; and Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University, Kashmir. Senior officers from the Indian Army and NCC, including Maj Gen Saurabh Sharma, SM, Chief of Staff, Chinar Corps, and Maj Gen Abhijit Mitra, GOC 31 Sub Area, also graced the occasion.
The camp commenced with a ceremonial Guard of Honour presented by NCC cadets, followed by a colourful cultural programme showcasing the diversity, traditions, and spirit of unity from across the nation. The performances captivated the audience and embodied the essence of national integration.
Maj Gen Anupinder Bevli, VSM, Additional Director General, NCC Directorate Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh, welcomed the Hon’ble Chief Minister and dignitaries.
In his address, he highlighted the significance of the SNIC and its activities, including the observance of International Yoga Day and various educational excursions. He emphasized how such events nurture lifelong friendships and unity among youth.
The ADG also shared inspiring accounts of JUO Abida Afreen and Cadet Mohit Knathia of the JK&L Directorate, who recently scaled Mount Everest, showcasing the indomitable spirit of NCC cadets.
He concluded with a note of gratitude to Chinar Corps, 31 Sub Area, and 216 Transit Camp for their steadfast support in organizing the camp.
Addressing the cadets, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah extended a warm welcome to all participants in Jammu and Kashmir.
Expressing his delight at engaging with the cadets, he praised the growth of the NCC into one of the largest youth organizations in the country, nurturing discipline, unity, and leadership.
“To have so many young cadets from diverse regions of the country here is not only a pleasure, but a source of pride for us all,” he stated. Commending the cultural performances, he remarked on how they beautifully depicted the nation’s rich heritage and diversity.
Reflecting on the broader significance of the camp, the Chief Minister said, “Events like these go beyond military training-they are about forging lifelong bonds, breaking social barriers, and strengthening the emotional fabric of the nation.” He urged cadets to cherish the friendships formed and to take the message of unity and peace back to their communities. He also underscored the importance of real-life experiences and human connections over digital interactions.
“In your discipline, commitment, and energy, we see the promise of a better India. A united, forward-looking India that learns from the past but does not repeat its mistakes,” he said. Quoting the preamble to the Constitution, he reminded the cadets of their shared identity: “We, the People of India.” He called on them to rise above barriers of region, religion, caste, and language, and to be ambassadors of a united nation.
Hon’ble Chief Minister awarded Certificate of Excellence and Cash Award to JUO Abida Afreen and Cadet Mohit Knathia of JK&L Directorate for exhibiting indomitable courage and successfully summiting Mount Everest on 18 May 25.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister’s address received an enthusiastic response from the cadets, who applauded his inspiring message and reaffirmed their dedication to national service.
The Special National Integration Camp 2025 in Srinagar, conducted under the aegis of the NCC Directorate Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh, successfully brought together cadets from all 17 NCC Directorates. The camp fostered national integration, cultural harmony, and youth leadership in one of India’s most iconic and historically significant regions.