Mumbai: The Hyderabad (Sind) National Collegiate University (HSNCU), in collaboration with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate of Maharashtra, hosted a landmark seminar titled “Women Empowerment Through NCC” on Saturday, November 30, 2024. Held at the KC College premises, the event brought together students, NCC cadets, and dignitaries to explore ways to promote gender equality and leadership among women.
During the seminar, a series of lectures on NCC Girl Cadets were given, covering topics such as empowerment, safety and security, holistic well-being, skill training, and leadership development. DG NCC Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh attended the seminar, which featured the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, as the chief guest.
Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan |
Honourable Governor of Maharashtra, His Excellency, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, underscored the role of discipline in achieving success and emphasised patriotism as a unifying force. “Women’s contribution to society is invaluable, as 50% of the population is female. Without their contribution, progress would be impossible.
Today, women are excelling in every field—from officers to professors—and outperforming men in many areas. Defeat is a part of life, but discipline and perseverance lead to success. Time management is crucial; balancing entertainment, exercise, study, and rest can help build discipline.”He further praised the spirit of NCC in fostering love for the motherland, saying, “This NCC gives me the spirit that my motherland is above my mother. The NCC gives me this spirit that my motherland is above my mother tongue. Patriotism alone will keep you disciplined. That patriotism alone will make the vibrant society of a nation.”
Focus on Women’s contributions
Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Provost of HSNCU, underscored India’s progress in women’s empowerment, drawing comparisons with other nations. “I am truly overwhelmed and grateful to the Honourable Governor, our Chancellor, and all distinguished guests for being here today and honouring us at HSNC University. This is a special occasion, and we feel privileged to have such incredible leadership with us. I’m particularly proud to share that more than 70% of the NCC cadets at our university are women, showing the real empowerment of women from the very beginning. India has already empowered women with leaders like our President and Prime Minister, and we must continue to respect and elevate our women in every way. The seminar today addresses important issues like safety, security, and mental health, and we must do more in these areas. In our institution, 75% of our teaching staff are women, and we will keep promoting inclusive leadership.”
Reflecting on his own time in the NCC, he learned the importance of discipline and character—‘Zindagi mein juk ke kabhi nahi chalna.’ He emphasised that this is the mindset we aim to instill in our future leaders. He said, “Strong leadership, like that of our Chancellor and our Prime Minister, is key to transforming our country. We are the fastest-growing economy, but it’s crucial that we grow not only in wealth but also in character. I am optimistic about the future of Bharat, and I thank everyone here for their commitment to making this a great nation.”
Promoting Inclusivity and Leadership
Vice Chancellor of HSNC University, Col. Prof. Hemlata K. Bagla, delivered a powerful session on “Empowering Women, Engaging Men, and Building Leadership for All.” “As Vice Chancellor, it is an honour to be here and speak about women’s empowerment, male engagement, and leadership. Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it is a human issue. True equality requires active participation from everyone—women, men, and all genders, including LGBTQ and transgenders. My mission is to see transgenders as NCC cadets, teachers, and part of our administration. Only then will we be inclusive and experience true leadership.”
Vice Chancellor of HSNC University, Col. Prof. Hemlata K. Bagla |
She highlighted the importance of mentorship, representation, and inclusive leadership “Male engagement is key to gender equality. Men are equal stakeholders in creating a just society. We need to stop seeing boys as protectors or figures of authority. Boys must be raised with respect for women, teaching them to channel their energy constructively. By raising boys with the right values, we reduce violence against women. Boys must grow into responsible individuals who contribute positively to society. Men can be allies, not protectors, helping create opportunities for women to thrive. Leadership is not about gender; it’s about skill development, empathy, vision, and service.”
Further, she emphasised the importance of community engagement “We have adopted five villages. It is mandatory that each institution has to adopt one village. Together we can build the future of this country that is inclusive, compassionate, and just.”
Other prominent speakers at the seminar include Maj. Gen. Yogender Singh, ADG NCC Directorate Maharashtra; Mrs. Deepti Mohil Chawla, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Defence; Maj. Anita Jethi; Ms. Hanna John, Project Manager & Trainer (TRP-Publicis); DG NCC Lt. Gen. Gurbirpal Singh; and Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin.
The seminar concluded with ’Walk Without Fear’ – lecture-cum-demonstration by the NGO Mission Fightback, led by the founder army veteran Lt. Col. (Retd.) Rohit Mishra & Mrs Rohit Mishra, which provided cadet attendees with essential self-defence techniques and strategies for personal safety.
