Kolkata: A team of 60 Naval Cadets from the West Bengal Directorate successfully completed a 410 km sailing expedition from Farakka to Kolkata, undertaken as part of the Most Enterprising Naval Unit (MENU) Competition conducted annually by the Directorate General of NCC (DGNCC).
The expedition was flagged off on 05 November 2025 by the Group Commander from Farakka and concluded today at the Man of War Jetty, Kolkata, where it was ceremonially flagged in by Maj Gen APS Chahal, SM, ADG, West Bengal & Sikkim Directorate
. NCC’s Farakka–Kolkata Sailing Voyage Flags Off : https://thebengal.in/2025/11/06/ncc-sailing-expedition-farakka-kolkata-2025/
Dynamic Expedition Covering 410 km
The long-distance sailing expedition functioned as a dynamic camp, with camp locations shifting daily as cadets progressed downstream along the Hooghly.
Food for the cadets was prepared both onshore and onboard during the journey.
The cadets sailed in three DK Whalers, supported by safety boats and covered the distance by a combination of sailing and pulling.
60 Cadets Participated — Boys and Girls
A total of 60 NCC Naval Cadets, including both boys and girls, took part in the challenging journey. The team halted en route at Berhampore, Chinsurah, Kalna, Katwa and Mayapur to perform repairs, conduct crew changes, and engage with local communities.
Social Service and Community Outreach
During the expedition, cadets carried out several Social Service and Community Development (SSCD) activities at key locations such as:
- Mayapur
- Berhampore
- Farakka
- Chinsurah
Activities included:
- Coastal and riverside cleaning drives
- Anti-pollution and “Say No to Plastic” campaigns
- Swachhata Abhiyaan
- Plantation drives
- Awareness interactions with local residents
The cadets also visited places of cultural and historical significance such as:
- Hazarduari Palace
- NTPC Farakka site
- Mayapur ISKCON Temple
Showcasing NCC’s Spirit of Adventure
The expedition highlighted the NCC’s tradition of discipline, adventure, community engagement and maritime skills. The cadets’ interaction with local communities helped promote awareness about the NCC’s role, contributions, and achievements.
