NCC cadets conquer Siachen heights, gain lessons in courage, leadership and resilience

LEH: The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh NCC Directorate successfully concluded the Siachen Trekking Expedition 2026, providing young cadets with a rare opportunity to experience the challenges of high-altitude terrain and develop essential qualities of leadership, discipline and endurance at one of the world’s most demanding environments.

Conducted from June 22 to July 9, 2026, the expedition saw the participation of around 30 NCC cadets, including 15 Senior Division (SD) and 15 Senior Wing (SW) cadets, at the Siachen Base Camp located at an altitude of 12,300 feet. The adventure programme was organised with the guidance and expertise of the Army Mountaineering Institute (AMI), Siachen.

During the expedition, cadets underwent rigorous training in specialised mountaineering and survival skills, including rock and ice craft, rappelling, jumaring, glacier marching, knot techniques, tent pitching and mountain survival practices. The challenging training exposed them to the realities of operating in extreme high-altitude conditions and helped build confidence, resilience and mental toughness.

The 10-day Siachen Trek 2026 concluded successfully with cadets from the J&K and Ladakh Directorate demonstrating remarkable determination and teamwork. The expedition included 15 girl cadets and 14 boy cadets, who successfully completed the demanding activities at the Army Mountaineering Institute.

The experience at Siachen, often described as one of the world’s toughest glaciated battlefields, provided the cadets with valuable insights into the courage, commitment and preparedness required by the armed forces. The trek not only promoted adventure and physical fitness but also nurtured qualities of responsibility, leadership and service to the nation.

The NCC Directorate stated that the expedition reflected the core spirit of the NCC motto — “Unity and Discipline” — as cadets from diverse backgrounds came together to overcome challenges in one of the harshest terrains.

From the icy heights of Siachen, the young cadets returned with stronger confidence, enhanced leadership skills and a renewed commitment towards adventure, national service and contributing positively to the country.