Entitlements for outstanding NCC cadets increased: Rajnath Singh

New Delhi : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday approved an increase in the number of awards given to cadets of National Cadet Corps (NCC) from the existing 143 to 243 as well as the cash incentives in various categories.

The awards are given to outstanding NCC cadets on the occasion of Republic Day every year. According to the Defence Ministry, the increase in the number of awards as well as grant of higher incentives has been approved in the light of changed economic scenario as well as a substantive increase in the strength of cadets.

The total number of cadets in the NCC has risen from 11,31,083 in 2014 to 13,29,202 in 2018. Following the increase in entitlements, two Raksha Mantri Padaks carrying cash prizes of Rs 30,000 each will be awarded each year as against one such prize carrying an incentive of Rs 20,000 earlier.

Four Raksha Mantri Commendations worth Rs 20,000 each will be given as against three commendations worth Rs 15,000 each earlier. The prize value of the 10 Defence Secretary's Commendations has been increased from Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000, while the Director General's Commendations have been substantial increased from the existing 102 to 200.

Besides, nine new best cadet awards have been introduced in different categories. The total number of best cadet awards has been increased from 18 to 27. Cash incentives attached with each award have also been increased.