UPSC Aspirant Roycin Miranda Motivates NCC Cadets Towards National Service

Mumbai, May 16, 2026: More than 200 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets of R. M. Bhatt College were encouraged to pursue careers in the Armed Forces and Civil Services during the “Cadet to Commander” programme organised by the World Environment Council in collaboration with Guru Dakshina Alumina.

The highlight of the programme was an interactive session led by Roycin Miranda, who has successfully cleared multiple competitive examinations including the written stages of the UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) and AFCAT examinations. Serving as resource person for the Youth Affairs and Training Forum of the Bombay Catholic Sabha, Miranda encouraged cadets to combine discipline and dedication in their journey towards national service.

Addressing the students, Miranda outlined various entry pathways into the Armed Forces, explaining eligibility criteria, examination structures and preparation methods. He also shared practical strategies to help students balance academic responsibilities with competitive examination preparation.

One of the most moving moments of the session came when Miranda shared the personal experience that inspired his dream of serving the nation. Recalling the funeral of Wing Commander Darryl Castelino, who lost his life during Operation Rahat in Kedarnath in 2013 after rescuing more than 300 people, Miranda described how seeing the Tiranga draped over the officer’s coffin left a profound impact on him.

He said the moment became a turning point in his life, inspiring him to pursue values rooted in service, responsibility and sacrifice.

Miranda stressed that NCC training already instils many of the qualities required for success in defence and administrative services, including discipline, resilience, leadership and self-control. He urged cadets to cultivate consistency in their studies, remain informed about current affairs and develop effective time-management skills.

The session also focused on opportunities in the Civil Services through the UPSC route. Miranda encouraged students to approach preparation with structured study routines, regular newspaper reading, awareness of current affairs and effective time management.

Cadets participated enthusiastically in the interactive programme, raising questions on career choices, examination preparation and balancing ambition with discipline. Many students were left motivated to consider careers in service of the nation.

The organisers, the World Environment Council and Guru Dakshina Alumina, were appreciated for organising the initiative, which connected real-life experiences with the aspirations of young cadets while reinforcing the role of NCC in shaping disciplined and responsible citizens.

By Catholic Connect Reporter