A historic journey of cultural significance and environmental consciousness began as the second leg of the Special Sailing Expedition (SSE) 2024 was flagged off from Prayagraj on 6th November 2024. This flagship event of the RDC 2025 is being organized under the aegis of the HQ DNCC. The expedition is designed to traverse the River Ganges and coastal regions, culminating in a Grand Ceremonial Flag-in by the Honourable Prime Minister on 28th January 2025.
Maj Gen Jagdeep Singh Cheema, ADG Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh (PHHP&C) Directorate, officially launched the expedition, which will sail from Kanpur to Kolkata, covering key stops including Varanasi, Buxar, Patna, Farakka, and finally reaching Kolkata on 20th December 2024. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries including Maj Gen Rajesh Bhatt, GOC Purva UP & MP Sub Area, and Maj Gen Sunil Sheoran, Sena Medal, GOC 4 Division, who attended the flag-off ceremony at the Boat Club in Prayagraj.
During the event, Maj Gen Cheema emphasized the significance of the expedition, encouraging the participating NCC cadets from 17 Directorates, including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab Haryana Himachal Pradesh & Chandigarh, and Rajasthan, to embrace the challenges of sailing on the mighty Ganges. He also highlighted the importance of river conservation and urged the cadets to promote awareness about preserving water resources.
The SSE will see equal participation from both male and female cadets, with 72 cadets from Uttar Pradesh Directorate joining the sailing journey from Kanpur to Buxar. A total of 144 cadets and staff from 7 Directorates will partake in the riverine segment of the expedition.
The flag-off ceremony was a cultural extravaganza, with cadets presenting vibrant performances that celebrated India’s rich heritage. A heartfelt rendition of “O re Nadiya, O re Nadiya tu kahaan se aayi re” by the Uttar Pradesh NCC cadets paid tribute to the river Ganga, while an energetic Bhangra performance by the Punjab Haryana Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh NCC groups electrified the audience. The young cadets also presented a beautifully researched commentary that connected the journey with India’s vibrant cultural traditions, showcasing how rivers like the Ganges have shaped India’s cultural identity over millennia.
Adding to the festivities, a semi-classical dance performance illustrated the refined beauty of Indian art forms, transcending linguistic and regional boundaries. Rajasthan NCC contributed to the cultural celebration with an energetic Ghoomar performance, accompanied by lively clapping from the audience.
This expedition is not only a celebration of India’s rivers but also a tribute to its diverse cultures. As the SSE makes its way from Kanpur to Kolkata, it aims to inspire a new generation of youth to value the country’s natural and cultural heritage while navigating the challenges posed by the river's mighty flow.(PR)