Commemorating 53 years of India’s victory in 1971 War, Lt Gen AS Pendharkar, YSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Spear Corps, flagged off the cycling expedition from Dimapur to Agartala on December 2.
The expedition will travel from Dimapur in Nagaland to Agartala in Tripura covering a distance of over 500 Kms in 12 days comprising of 15 members. The expedition is aimed at spreading the saga of valour exhibited by the armed forces, who not only led the Nation to victory but also played a pivotal role in the birth of a new Nation.
During its 12-day journey, the Pedalling Patriots-II will travel through towns like Lumding, Halflong, Masimpur and interact with ESMs, Veer Naris and widows of veterans. Spear Corps has also carried out detailed coordination with Zila Sainik Boards of the three states whereby the expeditioners will be assisting the old and needy ESM by providing them with equipment like wheel chairs, hearing aids and walking sticks.
The Pedalling Patriots-II will also interact with school children of nine schools across three states wherein they will conduct various competitions like painting, elocution and felicitate the achievers. They will also deliver lectures on the glory of the Indian Army and also provide a humane touch by providing sports equipment to orphanages.
The expedition will culminate on Vijay Diwas (16 December 2024) at L/Nk Albert Ekka War Memorial, Agartala. During the flag off various Ex Servicemen were felicitated, included four Poorvi Star veterans and one Gallantry award winner. 16 needy Ex-servicemen (ESM) were also provided with medical aids. The Flag-off ceremony was attended by Indian Army officials, Ex-servicemen (ESM), Veer Naris, school students and NCC cadets.