A Cyber Security Capacity Building Programme has been launched by the NCC in collaboration with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT).

With cyber security being a serious challenge across the society, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) is empowering its cadets with structured training in cyber awareness, digital hygiene and practical cyber defence skills.

A comprehensive Cyber Security Capacity Building Programme has been launched by the NCC in collaboration with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), a defence spokesperson said. A memorandum of understanding in this regard has been signed in the presence of Director General, NCC, Lt Gen Virendra Vats and Director General NIELIT, Dr Madan Mohan Tripathi.

The programme will be implemented in two stages. The first stage, Cyber Security Awareness Programme, is a 15-hour online training module designed to provide foundational knowledge of digital literacy, safe internet practices, cyber hygiene, and awareness of cyber threats.

This stage will be open to all enrolled NCC cadets across the country and will be delivered through the NIELIT Digital University platform.

The second stage, Cyber Defender Programme, is an intensive 60-hour offline programme designed for selected cadets who qualify through a merit-based screening process.

This stage will focus on hands-on training, real-life simulations and practical exposure to cyber security tools and techniques, enabling cadets to identify and respond to cyber threats effectively.

The initiative aims to create a pool of trained NCC Cyber Cadets who can contribute to spreading cyber awareness, promoting safe digital practices and supporting cyber security initiatives at the grassroots level.

The programme also seeks to align with national priorities under Digital India and the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), the spokesperson said.

With rapid digitalisation, critical infrastructure vulnerability and a shortage of skilled professionals, India faces serious cyber security challenges, according to experts.

Data breaches, ransomware, phishing and digital fraud are among common threats that all individuals using a smartphone or a home computer are exposed to.

Raised in 1948 as the second line of defence, the NCC has a strength of over 17 lakh cadets, including girls, from schools and colleges across India, and is the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation.

Officers and instructors are drawn from the three services, which are supplemented by associate NCC officers who are full time teachers in educational institutions and are offered commissioned ranks.

The aim of the NCC is to inculcate qualities of leadership and discipline and the spirit of adventure and camaraderie among the youth. Besides basic military training, the cadets are also exposed to adventure activities, social service, national integration and attachment with the three services for training