New Delhi, Oct 1 (UNI) Lt Gen Virendra Vats today assumed charge as the Director General of National Cadet Corps (NCC), succeeding Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh. He takes over at a significant juncture when NCC, the world’s largest uniformed youth organisation, is expanding its cadet strength to 20 lakhs across 28 states and eight union territories. Commissioned into the 19 Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army on December 17, 1988, Lt Gen Vats brings with him 37 years of distinguished service. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, College of Defence Management, Secunderabad and the National Defence College, New Delhi, Lt Gen Virendra Vats brings a wealth of operational and leadership experience. His expertise and vision are expected to steer the NCC with renewed vigour, further enhancing its role in shaping disciplined, responsible and future-ready youth for the nation.