Ladakh: A meaningful initiative aimed at strengthening youth awareness and personality development was recently organised at Eliezer Joldan Memorial (EJM) College, Leh, where the National Cadet Corps (NCC) conducted a workshop focused on career counselling and leadership development. The programme brought together students, cadets, and educators, highlighting opportunities in defence services along with essential life and leadership skills.
The workshop was conducted by the 1 Ladakh Battalion NCC in collaboration with EJM College, with participation from trained mentors and defence personnel. The main objective of the session was to guide students about career pathways in the Indian Armed Forces, while also building leadership qualities, discipline, and confidence among the youth.
Officials said the programme was designed to help students understand different entry routes into defence services, including examinations such as NDA (National Defence Academy), CDS (Combined Defence Services), AFCAT, and other recruitment channels. Experts also explained the importance of physical fitness, mental preparation, and consistent academic performance for aspirants.
A key highlight of the workshop was the presence of defence personnel and NCC trainers, who interacted directly with students and shared real-life experiences from their service journeys. They encouraged cadets to adopt a disciplined lifestyle and develop a strong sense of national responsibility.
The session also included detailed guidance on leadership development, where students were taught how teamwork, decision-making, and communication skills play a crucial role not only in defence careers but also in civilian professional life. Trainers emphasized that leadership is not limited to rank or position, but is built through everyday actions and responsibility.
Representatives from youth development organisations also contributed to the session by sharing motivational talks. They encouraged students to stay focused on their goals and make use of NCC training as a platform to build confidence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
The workshop witnessed active participation from around 60–70 students and cadets, including NCC participants from EJM College and nearby institutions. Students engaged in interactive discussions, asked questions about career options, and received personalised guidance from experts.
EJM College officials appreciated the initiative, stating that such programmes play an important role in shaping the future of students in Ladakh, where awareness about competitive defence examinations and career planning is gradually increasing. They also highlighted that NCC activities help students develop a sense of unity, discipline, and national integration, which aligns with the core motto of the organisation.
The NCC, which operates under the Ministry of Defence, is one of India’s largest youth organisations, aiming to develop character, leadership, and service-mindedness among students across the country. Officials added that workshops like these are especially important in remote regions like Ladakh, where access to structured career counselling can be limited. By bringing defence mentors directly to colleges, students are provided with valuable exposure and motivation to pursue diverse career opportunities.
The event concluded with an interactive feedback session, where students expressed appreciation for the guidance and requested more such programmes in the future. Organisers assured that similar initiatives will continue, focusing on skill development, leadership training, and career awareness for youth empowerment in the region.
