The Republic Day Camp (RDC) is the most prestigious camp conducted by the National Cadet Corps (NCC), where top cadets from across India gather in Delhi for intense training, competitions, and cultural events. But what does a typical day at RDC look like?
In a special #CampTalks episode, SUO Prajwal, a Senior Under Officer from the Karnataka & Goa Directorate, shared his firsthand experience of life at RDC. From early morning drills to VIP visits, his account provides an inside look at the rigorous yet rewarding daily routine of cadets.
📺 Watch the full video here: How does a day look like in RDC? | #camptalks
4:30 AM – Wake-Up & Line Area Maintenance
At RDC, cadets wake up as early as 4:30 AM and immediately start their line area maintenance. This includes sweeping, mopping, and organizing their living quarters to meet military standards. Maintaining discipline and cleanliness is an essential part of the training, and any carelessness can lead to strict consequences.
5:30 AM – Morning Drill & Event Training
After cleaning, cadets gather for the first fall-in of the day. Here, they receive instructions for the day ahead and move on to their respective training sessions:
- Guard of Honour & PM Rally Cadets: Head to Kartavya Path for drill practice.
- Cultural Cadets: Begin rehearsals for dance, music, or dramatics. All cultural events must be perfected before the first week of January, when VIPs start visiting.
- Flag Area Cadets: Continue working on their state’s exhibition area, ensuring presentations are refined for evaluation.
- Best Cadet Participants: Prepare for group discussions, interviews, and knowledge tests to excel in the All India Best Cadet Competition (AIBC).
Every cadet follows a different routine based on their assigned role, ensuring maximum productivity.
8:00 AM – Breakfast & Mid-Morning Training
Cadets gather for breakfast, after which they resume their respective event preparations. Depending on their category, they may be:
- Practicing drills for marching contingents.
- Attending dress rehearsals for the final RDC events.
- Participating in Flag Area briefings, where officers assess their knowledge and speaking skills.
During this period, security checks and routine inspections are conducted to ensure everything is in order for VIP arrivals.
12:30 PM – Lunch & Afternoon Sessions
After lunch, cadets return to their schedules, which often include:
- Shooting practice at Rajputana Rifles firing range (for Best Cadet & shooting event participants).
- Refining cultural performances for upcoming RDC events.
- Group discussion rounds & mock interviews for Best Cadet aspirants.
If VIP guests are visiting, cadets begin preparations hours in advance. Security checks, rehearsals, and final briefings are conducted before their arrival.
Cadets not actively participating in an event are assigned duties to assist others, ensuring that no one remains idle.
5:30 PM – Evening Assembly & Free Time
As the sun sets, cadets assemble for evening roll call, where officers provide updates and instructions for the next day.
A unique tradition at RDC is the daily birthday celebration. Every evening, all 17 directorates receive cakes, and if a cadet’s birthday falls on that day, they cut the cake in front of their unit. It’s a small yet memorable tradition that brings joy amidst the demanding schedule.
10:00 PM – Lights Out & Late-Night Studies
By 10:00 PM, the official lights-out time, cadets must be in bed. However, many Best Cadet aspirants continue studying under blankets using torchlights, revising for interviews and knowledge rounds.
While physical training is crucial, mental preparation and academic knowledge also play a significant role in success at RDC.
Daily Schedule at NCC Republic Day Camp (RDC)
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 4:30 AM | Wake-up & Line Area Maintenance | Cleaning, organizing barracks, and preparing for the day. |
| 5:30 AM | Morning Drill & Event Training | Drill practice for PM Rally & Guard of Honour, cultural rehearsals, and Flag Area preparation. |
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast | Quick meal before resuming training sessions. |
| 9:00 AM | Event-Specific Practice | Best Cadet candidates attend interviews, cultural cadets rehearse, drill teams continue marching practice. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch | Cadets take a break and prepare for afternoon sessions. |
| 1:30 PM | Competitions & Specialized Training | Firearms practice, Flag Area briefings, and group discussions for Best Cadet Competition. |
| 4:30 PM | VIP Visits & Security Checks | Preparation for official visits, security drills, and rehearsals. |
| 5:30 PM | Evening Assembly & Roll Call | Officers provide updates, cadets review their performance. |
| 7:00 PM | Birthday Celebrations & Leisure Time | All 17 directorates get a cake, cadets unwind and socialize. |
| 8:00 PM | Dinner | Final meal of the day before lights out. |
| 10:00 PM | Lights Out & Late-Night Study | Official bedtime, but Best Cadet aspirants continue studying. |
Note: Actuals timeline can be different
Special Highlights at RDC: Unique Experiences
1. VIP Visits & Hall of Fame Selection
Cadets get a chance to brief high-ranking officials, including ministers and military leaders. Those selected to represent their directorates in the Hall of Fame receive extra recognition and 10 additional points.
2. Master of Ceremony (MC) Selection
A few cadets are chosen to serve as event hosts for RDC functions, conducting interviews and announcements before VIP audiences. This is a prestigious role, requiring excellent public speaking skills.
3. Security & Event Management
Whenever a VIP guest arrives, cadets assist in security checks, flag area briefings, and event coordination, ensuring smooth operations.
Conclusion: The RDC Experience – A True Test of Endurance & Discipline
The Republic Day Camp (RDC) is more than just a training program—it’s a life-changing experience. Each day is packed with rigorous drills, intellectual challenges, and leadership-building activities. Cadets must display discipline, resilience, and teamwork while preparing for their final Republic Day performances.
For those who dream of participating in RDC, this insight from SUO Prajwal provides a clear picture of what to expect. The journey is tough, but the rewards are immense, as cadets leave with unmatched skills, memories, and national pride.
📺 Watch the full experience on YouTube:
👉 How does a day look like in RDC? | #camptalks
🚩 Have you attended RDC? Share your experience in the comments!