From Kochi to Kavaratti: NCC’s National Integration Camp Unites Young Cadets, Celebrates Marine Heritage
Over 200 NCC cadets from across India participate in a unique 12-day camp blending national unity, defence exposure, adventure sports, and environmental responsibility.
BNH NETWORK
News Highlights
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12-day NCC National Integration Camp held from Dec 23, 2025 to Jan 3, 2026
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200 cadets from all Indian states participated
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Camp conducted across Kochi and Kavaratti Island
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Exposure visits to Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard
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Adventure sports and marine ecology training in Lakshadweep
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Awareness on coral preservation and ocean biodiversity
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Plastic waste clean-up drive at Kavaratti western jetty
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Cultural exchange, competitions, and national integration activities
Kochi/Kavaratti: The National Cadet Corps (NCC) marked the year-end festivities and welcomed the New Year in a truly distinctive manner by strengthening national integration between mainland India and the Lakshadweep Islands through a specially curated National Integration Camp.
Organised by NCC Group Headquarters Ernakulam under the Kerala and Lakshadweep Directorate, the camp was conducted across Kochi, Kerala, and Kavaratti Island, Lakshadweep, from December 23, 2025, to January 3, 2026. The 12-day programme brought together 200 NCC cadets from all Indian states, along with 30 NCC personnel from the 23 Kerala Battalion and the Lakshadweep Naval Unit
The camp aimed to foster camaraderie, instil patriotism, promote awareness about the strategic and ecological significance of Lakshadweep, and encourage a spirit of adventure, while enabling rich cultural exchange among cadets from diverse regions.
During the Kochi phase, cadets received first-hand exposure to the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, gaining insights into their operational roles, maritime security responsibilities, and organisational structure. The Southern Naval Command hosted the cadets, offering an immersive experience into naval life through guided tours of Indian Navy warships, the Dhruv helicopter simulator, and the Maritime Museum Dronacharya, showcasing India’s naval heritage, leadership ethos, and advanced maritime technology.
The cadets also visited the Indian Coast Guard District Headquarters, Kochi, where they were briefed on the service’s ships, crafts, and its critical role in coastal security, search and rescue, and marine protection.
On December 26, the cadets sailed to Kavaratti Island, where the focus shifted to marine ecology, adventure training, and environmental awareness. Cadets participated in snorkelling, scuba diving, and glass boat rides, gaining a rare glimpse into Lakshadweep’s vibrant marine biodiversity. Experts highlighted the importance of coral reefs, ongoing coral restoration initiatives, and sustainable conservation practices.
The camp itinerary also included visits to the Fisheries Museum, Lighthouse, and the National Institute of Ocean Technology, where cadets were introduced to desalination technologies critical for island sustainability.
Demonstrating social responsibility, cadets undertook a plastic waste reduction drive, cleaning the western jetty area of Kavaratti, a major tourist zone, reinforcing the message of environmental stewardship.
To encourage teamwork and healthy competition, the camp featured sand art, cultural performances, quizzes, national integration presentations, and audio-video competitions. The programme concluded with a vibrant cultural evening showcasing India’s diversity, followed by a closing address by Camp Commandant Commodore Jose Vikas, who praised the cadets’ enthusiasm and urged them to spread awareness on marine conservation, reduction of plastic waste, and strengthening national unity for sustainable development.
