X: @JournalistAadil
Srinagar: Senior Under Officer (SUO) Tawheed Altaf of 7 J&K Battalion National Cadet Corps (NCC), Kupwara, achieved a rare honour by leading the All-India NCC Boys Marching Contingent during the 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on 26 January 2026.
SUO Tawheed Altaf led a contingent of 148 NCC cadets drawn from different parts of the country. His selection to lead the national-level contingent reflects his discipline, leadership qualities, and dedication to the National Cadet Corps (NCC). The achievement has brought pride to Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh Directorate.
Tawheed Altaf belongs from Shehlal in the Handwara area of Kupwara district. He completed his early schooling at Sheikh Ul Alam Public School, Shailal, where he showed academic excellence and a strong interest in the Indian Army and national service from a young age. He later joined GBHSS Handwara, where he came under the guidance of ANO Lt. Abdul Rasheed Sheikh and other NCC instructors.
Recognising his patriotic spirit and discipline, his mentors encouraged him to join 7 J&K Battalion NCC Kupwara. He attended all NCC camps and training programmes with full dedication. Under the guidance of Commanding Officer Col Amit Bhardwaj, he was selected through a rigorous process for the Pre-Republic Day Camp and later for the Republic Day Camp (RDC).
Due to his excellent drill performance and leadership skills, SUO Tawheed Altaf was chosen to lead the 148-member Boys Contingent, which marched before the President of India and other dignitaries at Kartavya Path. Participation in the Republic Day Parade is considered one of the highest honours for NCC cadets in the country.
This achievement has brought pride to his family, his NCC unit, and the entire region, and stands as an inspiration for youth from remote areas to serve the nation with discipline and determination.
Interview with SUO Tawheed Altaf
Q: How do you feel after leading the Boys Contingent at Kartavya Path on Republic Day 2026?
A: I feel deeply honoured and proud. I am grateful to my parents, Commanding Officer Col Amit Bhardwaj, and my ANO Lt Abdul Rasheed Sheikh for motivating and training me for this role.
Q: What message would you like to give to the youth of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh?
A: With discipline and hard work, any goal can be achieved. Believe in yourself and stay focused.
Q: What are your future goals in life?
A: I want to join the Indian Army as an officer. NCC and 7 J&K Battalion Kupwara have inspired and motivated me.
Q: Where are you from, and how did you get this opportunity?
A: I am from a small village in Kashmir. I joined NCC in 7 J&K Battalion Kupwara, where we trained hard regularly. This hard work earned me the chance to lead the contingent.
Q: What challenges did you face during preparation for the parade?
A: The training involved long hours and strict drills. Coming from a remote area, it was difficult initially, but with discipline and support from my unit, I overcame all challenges.
Q: Who inspired you the most for this achievement?
A: My Commanding Officer Col Amit Bhardwaj and my ANO inspired me the most. They taught me leadership and showed me that even boys from small villages can shine on big stages.
