Aspirations and Empowerment of National Cadet Corps Girl Cadets in an Aspirational District of India: A Mixed-Methods Study from Nuapada, Odisha

This article examines the aspirations and empowerment of girl cadets in the National Cadet Corps (NCC) within Nuapada district, Odisha, India, an aspirational district marked by socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, illiteracy, and gender disparities. The study highlights the NCC's role as a transformative platform for youth empowerment, particularly for marginalised young women, by fostering leadership, discipline, and community service. Utilising a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 21 girl cadets enrolled in undergraduate programmes, focusing on their career aspirations, personal development, and the challenges they face. Quantitative data were collected through a structured, closed-ended survey questionnaire, and qualitative data were derived from open-ended survey responses. Findings reveal that a significant majority aspire to join the Armed Forces and civil services, attributing their ambitions to the influence of NCC training, which enhances self-confidence, discipline, and leadership qualities. However, the study also reveals persistent barriers, including societal expectations and a lack of guidance, highlighting the need for additional support mechanisms, such as mentorship and career counselling. The cadets expressed a desire for increased leadership opportunities and skill development workshops, underscoring their proactive approach to overcoming challenges. This research contributes to the understanding of how structured youth programs can empower young women in aspirational districts, offering insights for policymakers to enhance NCC's impact and address the unique needs of girl cadets. Future research may explore longitudinal impacts of NCC participation and its integration with broader development initiatives to further support youth empowerment in marginalised communities.