New Delhi, Jan 8: Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Thursday said Operation Sindoor reinforced the message that life is not only about personal success or earning money, but also about contributing to the nation, as he praised NCC cadets for their role during the operation.
Addressing cadets at the ongoing National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp at Delhi Cantonment, the IAF chief urged them to continue giving their best for the country, regardless of whether they choose a career in the armed forces or pursue other professions.
Singh also encouraged cadets not to be disheartened by failures, saying setbacks should be used as stepping stones to success. Recalling his own journey, he said he too faced failures but eventually rose to become the IAF chief, something he described as “destined”.
“So, whether you are a soldier or a military leader in uniform, or a regular citizen, give your best and contribute to nation-building,” he said.
Highlighting the role of NCC cadets during Operation Sindoor, Singh said their participation in civil defence activities inspired many people. “Operation Sindoor has brought a lot of awareness. It is not just about earning money or doing things only for oneself; it is equally important to do something for the country,” he said.
Operation Sindoor was carried out by Indian armed forces in the early hours of May 7, 2025, targeting terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians in April last year. Officials said a large number of NCC cadets assisted in emergency drills, blood donation camps and other civil defence activities during the operation.
A total of 2,406 NCC cadets, including 898 girls, from across the country are participating in the nearly month-long camp, which was inaugurated on Monday by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and will conclude with the NCC Prime Minister’s Rally on January 28.
Before addressing the cadets, the IAF chief witnessed several cultural performances, including a dance act depicting Operation Sindoor through visuals of air strikes and air defence measures, along with a tribute to the vision of a Viksit Bharat. (Agencies)
