West Bengal Rakhi Utsav at Nazrul Mancha: CM Calls for NCC Revival
West Bengal Rakhi Utsav was celebrated at Nazrul Mancha in Kolkata in the presence of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and other dignitaries. The event combined the traditional spirit of Raksha Bandhan with a broader discussion on education, discipline and youth development.
Addressing the gathering, Adhikari said that students should receive modern education along with basic military training. He stressed the importance of bringing the National Cadet Corps (NCC) back into schools and colleges across West Bengal.
CM Suvendu Adhikari Calls for NCC in Schools and Colleges
Speaking at the West Bengal Rakhi Utsav, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that education should not be limited to academic learning.
According to the Chief Minister, students should receive modern education while also getting minimum army training. He described the revival of NCC activities in educational institutions as an important responsibility.
Adhikari said he had discussed the matter with Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and indicated that he would write a formal letter to him regarding the issue.
Focus on Youth Development
The Chief Minister's remarks placed emphasis on preparing young people with skills beyond conventional classroom education.
NCC training is designed to introduce students to discipline, teamwork, leadership and civic responsibility. The proposal to strengthen its presence in schools and colleges could therefore become an important part of the state's broader approach to youth development.
‘Bring Back NCC’ in Educational Institutions
Adhikari specifically highlighted the need to bring NCC back into schools and colleges.
He said, “Alongside modern education, every student should get minimum army training.” He further stated that restoring NCC in educational institutions was a responsibility and that he would approach the Union Defence Minister on the matter.
The proposal comes against the backdrop of discussions about combining academic education with activities that encourage discipline, physical fitness and leadership among students.
Rakhi Utsav Celebrated at Nazrul Mancha
The remarks were made during the Rakhi Utsav programme at Nazrul Mancha, where the Chief Minister joined other dignitaries in celebrating Raksha Bandhan.
Raksha Bandhan traditionally celebrates the bond of affection and protection between siblings. Across West Bengal, the festival has also been marked through community programmes focusing on unity and social harmony.
The Nazrul Mancha programme brought together the cultural significance of Rakhi Utsav with discussions on issues concerning young people and education.
Education and Discipline
The Chief Minister's call for NCC training reflects his emphasis on developing students through a combination of education and discipline.
While modern education remains central to academic development, the proposed expansion of NCC could provide students with opportunities to learn teamwork, leadership and a sense of responsibility.
CM to Write to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Adhikari said he had already spoken to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh about the issue.
The Chief Minister indicated that he would write a letter to Singh seeking attention to the revival of NCC in schools and colleges.