For overall personality development of its cadets, the National Cadet Corps will set up English language labs in its academies. An announcement to this effect was made by NCC director general P S Bhalla, who was in the city on Thursday.

These labs will first be set up at headquarters' level and then taken to other levels. Each lab would be provided with computers having special software. Teachers will also be appointed to impart lessons to the students. "Most of our cadets want to join the services. But very few are able to make it. Lack of knowledge of English language is one of the main reasons that hamper their growth. This shortcoming needs to be addressed so that more cadets could realise their dreams,'' he said.

Roping in more girl cadets is another important aim of the NCC, said the officer.

He added that as of now, 24% cadets are girls, but the defence ministry wants to increase their number so that they form at least 36% of our cadet population.

"For this, the ministry is working to open more units, some of which will be all-girls units. Like other states, several units will be raised in UP. In fact, talks are on with the state government in this regard," he said.