Nepal Plans Military-Style Training to Build Disciplined Youth
Nepal has introduced a new bill in the Federal Parliament that proposes military-style National Cadet Corps (NCC) training for school students from Classes 8 to 12. Registered by Prime Minister and Defence Minister Balendra Shah, the legislation aims to replace the existing National Service Corps Act, 2027 BS, with a broader framework focused on developing disciplined, patriotic and service-oriented youth capable of assisting the nation during emergencies.
Under the proposed law, students in Classes 8 to 10, aged between 13 and 18, would join the Junior Division, while those in Classes 11 and 12, aged 16 to 21, would be part of the Senior Division. The programme would include training at schools, followed by residential instruction at dedicated NCC training centres. Successful participants would receive official certification upon completing the course.
The bill requires written consent from parents or guardians and schools before enrolment. Cadets would take an oath before training, wear Nepal Army-style uniforms, and receive accommodation, meals and insurance during the residential phase. Nepal Army personnel would serve as instructors, while the curriculum would cover leadership, discipline, disaster management, environmental conservation, public service and sports.
The legislation also empowers the government to mobilise trained volunteers during national emergencies, including war or internal conflict, through a Cabinet decision. Officials say the proposal fulfils the constitutional directive to prepare citizens for national service, with India’s National Cadet Corps serving as one of the reference models. Priority for the programme would be given to community schools, remote regions and security-sensitive areas.
