In a spirited ceremony today, Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, officially flagged off the Motorcycle Expedition ‘Northeast Odyssey’. The event, held in Shillong, was attended by notable dignitaries, including Lt Gen Sanjay Malik, GOC of the 101 Area, and Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, SASO of the Eastern Air Command.
This ambitious expedition, in collaboration with TVS Motor Company, will traverse the Northeastern states of Meghalaya, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. The primary aim is to enhance awareness about the Indian Navy among the vibrant local communities, particularly engaging with the youth and civil society. This initiative follows the success of similar campaigns in the Northeast in 2022 and in Leh/Ladakh earlier this year.
The 15-day journey will cover an impressive 2,500 kilometers, showcasing the Indian Navy and conducting awareness drives at schools and colleges. The drives will focus on career opportunities within the Navy, including information on the Agnipath Scheme, which aims to recruit young talent into military service. Additionally, the expedition emphasizes the empowerment of women by including Women Officers and spouses, and seeks to foster interactions with Naval Veterans and Veer Naris in the region.
During the flag-off ceremony, Vice Admiral Pendharkar highlighted the importance of adventure activities in the Navy, stating, “These initiatives inspire personnel to aim higher and achieve better, supporting team building and strengthening camaraderie—crucial elements for efficient performance at sea.” He congratulated the riders for embarking on this significant journey, aimed at enhancing maritime consciousness in a part of the country that, while distant from the seas, holds the Navy close to its heart.
The Vice Admiral extended his best wishes for a safe and memorable ride to all participants and expressed gratitude to TVS Motors for their partnership in this important endeavor. As the expedition commences, it marks a significant step in bridging the gap between the Navy and the communities in the Northeast, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of naval services among the youth. (PR)