Now NCC to be elective subject in varsities

Nagpur, April 24

Here is good news for graduate students who want to make their career in arm forces but have no resources. Thanks to RTM Nagpur University for mulling to introduce NCC at the graduation level as an elective subject. It can be mentioned here that UGC had received a letter dated (March 16) from Directorate General, NCC proposing to include NCC as an elective subject in the Indian Universities. Acting on the letter, UGC forwarded the letter to all the universities for further action. In this regard, the university authorities held an informal virtual meeting with those people those persons who are involved in NCC.

Director of Department of Physical Education and Sports of RTM Nagpur University Dr Sharad Suryavanshi said, " In an informal meeting it was discussed how can we introduce the subject at graduation level. Its actual modalities will be finalised by UGC but at local level we will have to introduce our own syllabus".

When asked what prompts the UGC to introduce the NCC at graduation level Dr Suryavnshi who himself is a former international athlete said, " The main idea behind it is to instill the feeling of patriotism among the youths and make them disciplined. There are lot of opportunities in arm forces but many youths are unaware about it and if they have interest they lack the resources. If they take NCC as an optional subject they will get the basic knowledge regarding the preparation for arm forces exams".

Dr Suryavanshi gave the example of Reliance Foundation which reserved the posts of security officer for graduate NCC cadets only and that too with hefty pay package and in future also such lucrative job options will come. He further said in this regard they will discuss the issue with vice-chancellor of RTM Nagpur University and then will make the colleges aware about it.

The virtual meeting was attended by member of management council Vishnu Changde, director of student welfare department Dr Abhay Mudgal, Dr Sonali Shirbhade of Priydarshini Mahila Mahavidyalaya, flight lieutenant (rtd) Shivalee Deshpande of Prahar Samaj Jagruti Sanstha, head of NCC Golden Group Sudhir Devgirkar and Soma Kiran of NCC Golden Group.

A welcome decision: Shivalee

Flight Lieutenant (rtd) Shivalee Deshpande while welcoming the UGC decision said, " This is good decision. To inculcate the feeling of patriotism amongst the youths, NCC subject should be there. It will bring discipline among the students and will also help them to become physically and mentally strong".

Shivalee who herself made her career in the armed forces thru NCC said, "Not just to join the armed forces, but students should look at this subject to become a good citizen. Natural calamity can occur at any time. In such a situation, they should know the basics of disaster management and first aid techniques to help the people. And NCC will teach them all these things", she said.