An NCC cadet showcases horsemanship skills at the BJB Autonomous College playground in Bhubaneswar. Picture by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, Nov. 23: Aerobatics, continuity drill and equestrian marked the celebrations of the 66th National Cadet Corps Day at BJB College Ground on Sunday. Around 600 NCC cadets from various educational institutions from all over the state took part in the event.

A few cadets of the Remount and Veterinary squadron of the city organised a show on horseback. From tent pegging to show jumping, the young cadets mounted the horses and showcased their horsemanship skills.

For the cadets, horse riding is thrilling and it also keeps them fit. “This is one of those sports that helps in muscle strengthening and balance developing,” said Pritam Panda, one of the cadets.

The cadets also conducted a continuity drill. Wearing theNCC uniforms, the drill sequence of male and female cadets with rifles marching together, was spectacular. The performance of aerobatics was also quite attractive.

State culture and tourism minister Ashok Panda graced the occasion as the chief guest and interacted with the cadets. He gave away prizes to the best cadets, ANOs (Associate NCC Officer), division officers and instructional officers.

“Being an NCC Cadet is a matter of pride as it helps in building secular, united and disciplined citizens for future India,” said Pradeep Kumar Sahu, NCC Troop Commander (army wing). Sahu received the best NCC officer (junior division) award.

The cadets of the state NCC directorate are demanding the establishment of the NCC Nagar near Chandrasekharpur at the earliest.

“The state government has already identified the land to expand our activities. We met the higher education secretary recently and he has assured that the work will begin soon,” said Sahu.

The cadets also want employment for the vacant posts of NCC officers at various colleges in the state.

“Our primary aim is to develop the personality of the youths and instil leadership skills into them,” said J.P. Panda, additional director of NCC, Odisha.

He further added that more NCC units would be started in school and colleges to accommodate the growing number of aspirants. Presently, there are over 55,000 cadets in the state. A cultural programme was also organised on the occasion. A recital by the cadets of Sambalpur, showing the folk dance forms of the state, was appreciated.