Srinagar, June 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday urged National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from across India to become ambassadors of peace, harmony, and national integration by sharing their experiences of Jammu and Kashmir with their communities back home.
Addressing participants at the NCC Special Integration Camp–2025 held at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, the Chief Minister praised the presence of young cadets from across the country as a “morale booster” for the people of Kashmir. The ongoing 12-day camp aims to foster national unity and promote cultural exchange among the youth.
“I encourage you to return home and share the real stories of Kashmir—the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the reality that lies beyond headlines,” said Omar Abdullah, who was the chief guest at the event.
Referring to the recent terror attack in Baisaran that claimed 26 lives, he acknowledged the tragedy but also emphasized resilience and hope. “This year has brought pain we never wished to see again. But even in darkness, we find light,” he said.
The Chief Minister also proposed that future NCC camps include travel via train, allowing cadets to witness the engineering marvels that connect Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. “Such a journey would inspire and educate,” he added.
Praising the cadets for their cultural performances, he remarked, “In just one hour, you took us on a journey from Kashmir’s snowy peaks to Kerala’s sunny coasts. Your talent, discipline, and enthusiasm are commendable.”
Reflecting on his school days, Omar spoke of the lasting friendships formed during such camps. “These shared experiences build lifelong bonds. Treasure them—they are invaluable,” he told the cadets.
Reaffirming India’s strength in its diversity, he quoted the Preamble of the Constitution: “We, the People of India.” He noted, “Our unity is not in spite of our differences, but because of them. That is our real strength.”
“These camps are more than training grounds or cultural events they embody the true spirit of India. They represent an unbreakable bond among its people. So long as we nurture this bond, no force can divide us,” the Chief Minister asserted.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the cadets for their energy and spirit. “You’ve helped connect the country physically, now go ahead and connect it emotionally,” he said.
The event was attended by Ministers Sakeena Itoo and Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Major General Anupinder Bevli (ADG, NCC Directorate J&K and Ladakh), the Vice Chancellor of Cluster University Kashmir, senior army officers, and NCC cadets from various states and Union Territories.
