A Cadet’s Comeback: A Journey of Rediscovery

The illiterate of the 21st century is not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn – Alvin Toffler. (American writer and futurist)

I still vividly remember Maj. James Joseph visiting our classroom to motivate us, pre-degree students, to join the NCC (National Cadet Corps). For someone like me, with a strong nationalist mindset, it was a natural choice.

For me, the NCC was transformational. It shaped me from a shy student into a confident cadet and later an under officer. It provided me with lifelong learning experiences. Being part of the SB NCC Unit under the 15 (K) Battalion and attending Army attachment camps at MRC Wellington opened my eyes to the army’s way of life. I owe much to my officers, seniors, and friends who served as role models and significantly shaped my character and personality.

Life took a different turn when I joined engineering, but the habits I developed through NCC stayed with me. Later, I took up long-distance running. All these experiences prepared me for the life ahead.

Life and Career
My NCC tag stayed with me throughout my engineering days and later in my career. Determination kept me going, and I completed 15 km mini-marathons, which made me feel like a lifelong runner. In my early career, I attempted the SSB (Services Selection Board) interviews seven times. Though I made it through all four days each time, I didn’t get selected. This pushed me toward my Plan B—focusing on a distinguished engineering career.

My passion for “Make in India,” teamwork, and a lead-from-the-front style helped me become a Principal Engineer at ABB R&D. I also continued to volunteer through technical communities, serving as a Senior Member of IEEE and participating in ATL and Smart India Hackathons. Despite staying connected with NCC, giving back to the organization remained a goal in the back of my mind.

It was through LinkedIn that I came across the EXPA CADET Program, which gave me a second chance with NCC. I applied for CTOP8, received a call from EXPA trainer Jyothi, and after some discussions, I was selected. CTOP8 was like returning to my NCC days. Thanks to fantastic trainers like Raj, Achiah, Kishore, Anish, Himanee, and CTO Shivani, we had a wonderful time learning together. With my coursemates, I felt like I was back with my old pack!

A few days later, my friend Jimmy asked me, “What do you think India will look like 10 years from now?” I remember answering with positive energy, but looking back, I must admit, my answer wasn’t as confident as it could have been.

I was searching for a training opportunity when CATC TURA came up. I signed up, and it felt like more than just a coincidence that I was starting my training journey near where my role model, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, had left off. The experience left me in awe of the untapped potential of the area, with its natural beauty and warm, welcoming people.

It was a great two days interacting with students. The support from senior trainers like Kanan and Sudhir was invaluable. Kanan made me feel comfortable, while Sudhir helped me understand the importance of body language. Our team lead, Hitendra, along with Wilbur and Jahanavi, provided additional support. Everything was new to me, so my focus was entirely on delivering the sessions on time. Briefing and debriefing sessions helped me learn from others and improve. On our way back, we even had a chance to visit the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati!

My second training opportunity at EBSB Tambaram, Chennai, was a major learning experience. By then, I was more comfortable with the content, and the team included several stalwarts. It was no coincidence that the journey began on Independence Day.

As team leader, Kamal excelled in facilitating everything and took great care of the group, while Nandish, with his passion for excellence, set a new standard for training. Balaji, with his unique style of delivery, always emphasized the importance of focusing on our objectives. This clarity helped me improve further. Bharadhan guided me on how to manage cadets better and handle language barriers, while Ashika, though a first-time trainer, helped me manage time effectively. Francis joined us as an observer, as did my CTOP8 coursemate, Jawahar. Bhuvanesh’s active participation in the briefing sessions also added value. My CTOP8 coursemates Pooja, Rahul, and Anbu were incredibly supportive. Even nature was on our side, as deer wandered close by during our time there.

Our team worked tirelessly to help the cadets become more self-aware, enabling them to realize their full potential. I also took the opportunity to highlight Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, my own role model, and explain how we could dream, visualize, and pursue new pathways toward a brighter future.

After the final debrief, we received individual feedback from the cadets, which reflected the positive impact we had made. We wrapped up our time together with a wonderful dinner in Chennai, celebrating our accomplishments.

For me, both training opportunities were invaluable experiences, allowing me to meet the “Ignited Minds” of youth across the nation. As Dr. Kalam once said, “The ignited minds of the youth are the most powerful resource on the earth, above the earth, and under the earth.”

Returning home, I confidently told my friend, “India is well on its way to achieving Vision 2020 in just a few years.”

Thanks to EXPA and the CADET program!

Jai Hind!