Kolkata : The National Cadet Corps (NCC), India’s largest voluntary youth organization, successfully concluded its pioneering Special Sailing Expedition from Kanpur to Kolkata, traversing the sacred Ganges over an impressive distance of approximately 1,650 km. The expedition, a key part of the Republic Day Celebrations 2025, was flagged in at the iconic Man of War Jetty, Kolkata, today by Major General Vivek Tyagi, Additional Director General, NCC Directorate, West Bengal & Sikkim.
Themed ‘Bhartiya Nadiya – Sanskritiyo Ki Janani’ (Indian Rivers – The Cradle of Civilizations), this initiative showcased the cultural, ecological, and economic importance of Indian rivers. Over 400 cadets from all 17 NCC Directorates across India participated in this remarkable endeavor, which commenced on 21 October 2024 in Kanpur. The cadets demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resilience, navigating through historic cities like Prayagraj, Varanasi, Buxar, Patna, and Berhampur before reaching Kolkata.
The final leg, spanning 530 km from Manihari to Farakka and Farakka to Kolkata, saw participation from 100 cadets representing 11 states and one Union Territory, including the Seven Sisters of the North East, West Bengal, Sikkim, Kerala, Odisha, and Lakshadweep. Sailing in two DK Whalers accompanied by safety boats, the cadets visited 12 significant river Ghats and engaged with local communities to promote social awareness.
In addition to sailing, the cadets undertook various social initiatives, including coastal cleaning drives, anti-pollution campaigns, tree plantation drives, and cultural programs aimed at encouraging youth empowerment and nation-building. These efforts underscored the NCC’s commitment to environmental conservation and the promotion of sustainable practices.
The NCC Director General, based in New Delhi, congratulated the cadets on the successful culmination of this ambitious expedition, emphasizing its role in fostering leadership, discipline, and camaraderie among the youth. The expedition also served as a platform to highlight the critical role of rivers in transportation, agriculture, fishing, and hydroelectricity generation.
The Special Sailing Expedition stands as a testament to the dedication of NCC cadets in contributing to the nation’s growth and development while upholding the rich cultural heritage of India.
