Wings of discipline: 10-day NCC camp shapes young leaders

The 1 HP Air Squadron NCC, Kullu, is currently hosting a 10-day Annual Training Camp (ATC-192) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mandi, from June 17 to 26. With full support from the IIT-Mandi administration, the camp has brought together 450 Air Wing NCC cadets from 14 schools and 2 colleges across Himachal Pradesh.

Under the leadership of Wing Commander Kunal Sharma, Commanding Officer of 1 HP Air Squadron and Camp Commandant, the cadets are undergoing a well-rounded training programme. Activities include drill, physical training, rifle firing, weapon handling, aero-modelling, and cultural events. The camp also serves as a selection ground for national-level events such as the Pre-Vayu Sainik Camp and the Republic Day Camp.

A major highlight of the camp was a three-day SSB (Services Selection Board) Workshop held from June 21 to 23. It was conducted by Group Captain Naval Saini (Retd), former Deputy President of 2 AFSB Mysore. An alumnus of Sainik School Sujanpur Tihra and the National Defence Academy, he trained cadets in personality development, communication skills, group discussions, and mock interviews—giving them a strong foundation for future SSB selections.

Academic sessions for NCC ‘B’ and ‘C’ certificate courses are being led by Flying Officer Nischal Sharma and Flying Officer Dr. Chaman. The camp is supported by a dedicated team of instructors and staff, including Junior Warrant Officers M.W. Rahman, Rakesh Samanotra, and Harbans Yadav. Hands-on aero-modelling training using RC and control-line aircraft is being provided by instructor Reshma.

Represented institutions include Government College Kullu, Vallabh Government College Mandi, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sainj, DPS Manali, DAV Schools, Cambridge International School Kullu, and several Government Senior Secondary Schools from the Kullu region.

Wing Commander Kunal Sharma thanked IIT Mandi’s Director and staff for their outstanding support in making ATC-192 a meaningful and transformative experience for cadets.

Himachal Tribune