A REPORTER
SHILLONG: The meghalaya government through the University Grants Commission has allowed students to take up NCC (National Cadet Corps) as an elective subject in colleges. This will benefit cadets, including those from the border areas where additional cadet strength has been authorized as part of the overall Border Areas Expansion Plan and help the youth to contribute towards Nation building.
The necessary guidelines have been issued by UGC to vice-chancellors of all universities on April 15. The NCC is to be considered a General Elective Credit Course (GECC) in response to the proposal mooted by the Directorate General National Cadet Corps, New Delhi. 91 colleges have already implemented the proposal.
NCC syllabus for B and C certificates has been designed as per the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) of National Education Policy 2020 which grants 24 credit points covering six semesters.
The move aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 where students can select their choices of subjects rather than being confined to only those being offered by the institutions. On successful completion of the course, students are awarded credit points which will enable them to qualify for their respective degrees.
Efforts are being made by NCC Group HQ Shillong, for the implementation of NCC as an elective subject in colleges affiliated with NEHU. Necessary communication in this regard has already been established with NEHU. The university has been positive towards the proposal and is considering it.
There are several advantages linked with the proposal that would benefit the students immensely. In addition to the development of the discipline, leadership qualities, a strong character and a spirit of adventure, students opting for the subject would get opportunities to take part in outdoor camps and adventure activities and at the same time earn credits for their course. It would also improve their career prospects as students with NCC background are considered as assets by government and corporate organisations.