Protocol takes backseat as NCC cadets soak in attention

New Delhi: After delivering his longest Independence Day speech at 98 minutes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi descended from Red Fort and entered his car. As the convoy of black SUVs neared the stands where hundreds of schoolchildren, NCC cadets and NSS volunteers were seated, the PM instructed his escorts to slow down. Then, deviating from protocol, as he has done every year on Aug 15, Modi exited his vehicle to engage with the youngsters.Within moments, the PM was engulfed by white, saffron and green. The awestruck children surged forward to catch a glimpse of Modi in his white kurta and colourful turban, hoping for a chance to shake his hand. Many kept calling out his name as he moved on to interact with the youngsters seated further back.“I was one of the lucky few to shake hands with Modi sir,” gushed Shivansh, who studies in a Haryana School. “This is the third time I have seen him. I first saw him at an event at Bharat Mandapam, second time on Kartavya Path and then today. He is my role model.”A schoolmate of Shivansh said, “This is the first time I came for the Independence Day celebrations to Red Fort and it is an experience that I will never forget ever in my life. I can't wait to get back home to tell my parents and friends about the day.”Shubha Dubey, a 19-year-old who aspires to become an Army officer, said, “I have come to such a grand event for the first time. It was my dream to meet the PM and I did. I am overjoyed." She expressed her surprise that Modi reached out to the rear of the enclosure to make sure he met everyone. The students chanted ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ as the PM went around waving, smiling and interacting with them.An NSS volunteer from Acharya Narendra Dev College said, “A unique kind of motivation struck us when we realised the world was watching us, that we truly matter and contribute to the nation’s pride. Initially, it seemed daunting, but some of us woke up as early as 2am to get ready and be here. Realising that we do make a difference is an unparalleled feeling.”Several NCC students eager to join the Army after their studies mentioned that this interaction had "electrically charged them" and reinforced their commitment to serving the nation. Others claimed that this experience had underscored their desire to actively participate in policy making and governance to drive the country’s progress.