Maritime News India : Shillong, 18 October 2024 – The Indian Navy’s Motorcycle Expedition, dubbed ‘Northeast Odyssey’, was officially flagged off today by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) Eastern Naval Command. The event took place in Shillong, Meghalaya, in the presence of Lt Gen Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 101 Area, and Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO), Eastern Air Command. This initiative aims to enhance awareness about the Navy and foster a deeper connection with the vibrant communities of Northeast India.
An Expedition to Connect with Youth and Civil Society
The ‘Northeast Odyssey’ motorcycle expedition is being undertaken in association with TVS Motor Company and will traverse through the Northeastern states of Meghalaya, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. Spanning 15 days and covering a total distance of 2500 kilometers, the expedition will provide an opportunity for the Navy to engage with the youth and civil society in these regions, which are far from the seas but play a vital role in India’s maritime identity.
Main Objectives of the Expedition
The key goals of this expedition include:
- Raising Awareness: Engaging with local schools and colleges to educate the youth about career opportunities in the Indian Navy, particularly highlighting the Agnipath Scheme.
- Promoting Nari Shakti: The expedition will showcase the important role of women in the Navy, with Women Officers and spouses actively participating in the initiative.
- Honoring Veterans and Veer Naris: The expedition will feature interactions with Naval Veterans and Veer Naris (wives of fallen soldiers) in the region, celebrating their contributions and sacrifices.
Promoting Team Spirit and Adventure
Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, speaking at the flag-off ceremony, emphasized the Navy’s long-standing commitment to promoting adventure activities. He noted that such initiatives not only inspire Navy personnel to achieve higher goals but also strengthen teamwork, a crucial component for successful operations at sea. He also praised the participants for taking on the challenge of this expedition, aimed at enhancing maritime awareness in a region that, though landlocked, is integral to India’s national security.
Partnership with TVS Motor Company
The ‘Northeast Odyssey’ expedition is made possible through a partnership with TVS Motor Company. Vice Admiral Pendharkar extended his gratitude to the company for supporting the Navy in this important initiative. The collaboration with TVS underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing national causes.
A Tribute to India’s Maritime Heritage
The expedition represents a crucial step in the Navy’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between India’s maritime forces and the people of inland states. By taking the Navy’s message to the heart of Northeast India, the expedition not only aims to create awareness about maritime defense but also strengthens the Navy’s bond with citizens who play an equally important role in the nation’s security and development.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 15-day expedition covering 2500 km across Meghalaya, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh.
- Main Focus: Enhancing Navy awareness, career opportunities, and connecting with local communities.
- Gender Inclusivity: Participation of Women Officers and spouses to highlight the role of women in defense.
- Special Interactions: Connecting with Navy Veterans and Veer Naris of the region.
