The National Cadet Corps (NCC) in India was officially established on July 15, 1948, under the National Cadet Corps Act of 1948. It originated as a successor to the University Officers Training Corps (UOTC), which was established by the British in 1942 to train youth for military service. The NCC was formed to provide systematic training to young men and women in schools and colleges at a national level, aiming to develop character, leadership, and a spirit of service among the youth.