New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar today, January 7, inaugurated the Republic Day camp of the National Cadet Corps (NCC)  Delhi and called upon the cadets to help evolve an ecosystem that keeps ''nation first''.

Addressing over 2,500 NCC cadets from across the country at the camp, the vice President called the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020 a ''game changer''.  He also also said that India was set to rise as the third-largest economy by the end of this decade. 

The vice president praised the contribution of the NCC to nation-building by ''inculcating character, comradeship and the spirit of selfless service among young students''. ''I appreciate you for being part of this momentous occasion. Undoubtedly, you as NCC cadets will by conduct exemplify and help evolve an ecosystem that will always keep our nation first,''  the VP said. ''We are in the 'Amritkal' of our independence. Our Bharat is on the rise as never before. It is now the 5th  largest global economy. Only a few months we overtook the UK. By the turn of the decade, we will be the third largest global economy,'' the Vice Presidnet said.

On NEP, ''The New Education Policy 2020, thoughtfully evolved after 30 years, is a game changer. Gratified to note that nearly 90 universities offer NCC as an elective subject.'' He also recalled his days as an NCC cadet. 
''Seeing your beaming optimism and smart turnout, I am reminded of my days as an NCC cadet at Sainik School, Chittorgarh. I have very fond memories of those days. It was a learning that shaped me,'' he said. 

The vice president said that despite linguistic, cultural, religious, and geographic boundaries, NCC promotes national integration by raising youths' understanding of the country's rich past.

In our diverse country, NCC camps and group activities foster a sense of appreciation for one another's individuality and friendship, he added.

Delhi colder than hilly areas, temp fell below Mussoorie and Nainital