Lt Gen Virendra Vats assumed charge as the Director General of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), succeeding Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh, on October 01, 2025. He takes over at a significant juncture when NCC, the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation, is expanding its cadet strength to 20 lakhs across 28 States and 8 Union Territories. With its motto of Unity and Discipline, NCC is evolving in step with Viksit Bharat@2047, integrating innovation, digital skills and global awareness with its traditional focus on character building and patriotism.

Commissioned into the 19 KUMAON Regiment of the Indian Army on December 17, 1988, Lt Gen Virendra Vats brings with him 37 years of distinguished service. He has served in challenging Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorism environments, and held key appointments in Arunachal Pradesh, the Kashmir Valley, and Army Headquarters. He also commanded an Infantry Brigade under the United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Prior to this appointment, he was the Commandant at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.

An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, College of Defence Management, Secunderabad and the National Defence College, New Delhi, Lt Gen Virendra Vats brings a wealth of operational and leadership experience. His expertise and vision are expected to steer the NCC with renewed vigour, further enhancing its role in shaping disciplined, responsible and future-ready youth for the nation.

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SR/KB