NEW DELHI (PTI):  Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has visited the NCC Republic Day Camp here and said its contribution in inculcating discipline and leadership among the youth is exemplary.

This is the first time that a CDS has visited the Republic Day Camp of the National Cadet Corps.

He said the NCC -- true to its motto of 'unity and discipline' -- has grown into a volunteer organisation of 17 lakh cadets.

"Its contribution in inculcating the qualities of discipline, leadership and camaraderie amongst the youth of this country is exemplary," he said on Tuesday.

Highlighting the NCC's contributions in social awareness activities, General Chauhan more than 200 tonnes of plastic waste has been collected from different water bodies across the country under the 'Puneet Sagar Abhiyan'.

He said approximately 13.5 lakh NCC cadets participated in the campaign and collected almost 208 tons of plastic waste, of which 167 tons has been sent for recycling.

NCC cadets participated in the Defence Expo held at Gandhinagar and displayed advanced technology prototypes, including a UAV for tactical missions and all terrain vehicles, the CDS noted and lauded the cadets for excelling in different sports events.

"It is very heartening to know that many ex-NCC cadets have chosen the armed forces as a carrier of choice. I am sure their stories of courage will further inspire you to join armed forces," he added.

The CDS was received by DG NCC, Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh after which he reviewed a 'Guard of Honour' by cadets drawn from all the three wings of the NCC - Army, Navy and Air Force.

This was followed by a band display by cadets from Sainik School, Kapurthala.

The CDS also later inspected the 'Flag Area'' prepared by the cadets from all 17 NCC directorates, depicting various social awareness themes. The CDS also visited the recently renovated 'Hall of Fame'.

NCC's Republic Day camp in the national capital this year is being attended by 2,155 cadets from across the country, including 710 girls. It includes 114 cadets from Jammu and Kashmir and 120 cadets from the North-Eastern Region, a statement said.