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Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee has exhorted the youth to protect and nurture the unique Indian spirit of “unity in diversity”. Addressing a special National Integration Camp of National Cadet Corps (NCC) held at Leh today, Shri Mukherjee said that “India is just not a country, but a continuing civilization of more than 5000 years old”.
Mr. Mukherjee said that it is unfortunate that certain divisive forces are trying to create disruption and spread social disharmony. These forces, he said are bent upon inculcating extremely pernicious doctrines of social divide. He said, fortunately the youth of our country have rejected such doctrines of divisiveness, despite India being the country with the second largest muslim population in the world. He further said that this has been possible purely due to our values, respect for diversity and our resolve to celebrate unity in diversity.
Commending the NCC for its contribution to the cause of national integration and harmony, Mr. Mukherjee wished them good luck in their continued effort to spread the value of discipline and unity among the youth.
In his speech, Director General NCC Lt. Gen. M C Bhandari said, that the main purpose of the camp is to foster the spirit of National integration and solidarity among the participants who represent 16 NCC directorates and over 13 lakh cadets from all over India. He said that during the camp period, besides performing some social tasks like spreading awareness on AIDS, the cadets will be given an opportunity to interact with the Army units in and around Leh. He also informed that the cadets are also being made aware of the various Sadhbhavana activities which have been undertaken by the Army to help the local population. A total of 170 cadets and 20 associate NCC officers (ANOs) are participating in this 12-day long camp, which will be over on 12th July 2005.
On this occasion, a colourful cultural programme based upon the unique diversity of the national life was presented by the NCC Cadets. As a humble gesture of NCC, Defence Minister Shri Mukherjee also honoured two NCC girl cadets namely, cadet Ladhol Tshering and Choral Tshering of J & K region, for being part of the first successful Mount Everest expedition, who climbed the peak on 02 June 05 by presenting them cash awards.
DM / PS
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