Assam: First Ever Brahmaputra Sailing Expedition by NCC
The focus of this expedition the same waters where the famous battle of Saraighat was fought in 1671, is to rekindle the memories of the epic bravery of the Sons of the Soil of Assam, while fostering a spirit of adventure amongst the youth.
Guwahati
Stepping into an uncharted area, NCC Directorate Shillong has embarked on a pioneering project, to conduct the First Ever Brahamputra Sailing Expedition. The waters of the mighty Brahmaputra have been selected for this ambitious initiative, using the expertise available with the military personnel of NCC, three sturdy Whaler Sailing Boats of the Naval NCC Units and support from the Army Eastern Command as well as the Assam State Govt.
The focus of this expedition the same waters where the famous battle of Saraighat was fought in 1671, is to rekindle the memories of the epic bravery of the Sons of the Soil of Assam, while fostering a spirit of adventure amongst the youth. It will also bring to fore the rich heritage & remind the present generation of the valour displayed by the great Ahom general Lachit Borphukan&the first lady freedom fighter from Assam to be martyred Kanaklata Barua, in the true traditions of the rich history of Assam. Both legends find due reverence amongst the armed forces, the cadet performing the best in leadership qualities at National Defence Academy is awarded the ‘Lachit Borphukan Medal’ and the Indian Coast Guard has commissioned & christened one of their fast patrol vessels as ‘ICG Kanaklata Barua’.
The expedition has been named as Lachit – I and is intended to make this expedition an annual feature, hereafter. In order to keep the spirits of the participating cadets high the official song for this expedition chosen is “Moha Bahu Brahmaputra” by the legendary singer & jewel of Assam, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, also known as Sudhakanta.
The Sailing expedition will cover over 200 km distance commencing with the Flag Off at Biswanath Chariali on 16 Oct 2019 and Flagging In at Pandu Port, Guwahati on 25 Oct 2019, which will be presided over by the Chief Minister of Assam.
Maj Gen Bipin Bakshi, VSM, ADG NCC NER briefed the media regarding forth coming maiden #NCC Sailing Expedition in Mighty Brahmaputra River which is to commence from 16 October to 26 October 2019. A total of 80 Naval NCC cadets will participate in this 10 days expedition. pic.twitter.com/putjenGc11
— PRO, GUWAHATI, MINISTRY OF DEFENCE, GOVT OF INDIA (@prodefgau) October 11, 2019
Besides fostering a spirit of adventure among the youth of Assam, the aim of this expedition is to generate healthy competitive spirit and instil a sense of discipline, leadership and comradeship among the NCC Cadets.
To make this expedition more purposeful, the cadets in collaboration with the Principal Conservator of Forest Assam, will also spread awareness about the dangers to Brahmaputra and its marine life& role of the riverine population is protecting it.
The cadets have been training hard for the expedition since August, knowing the challenges that they may face on the mighty Brahmaputra. With great enthusiasm, the NCC volunteers have resolved to overcome all odds to become “Brahmaputra Tamers “as they sharpen their skills to set a new record.
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