Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command flagged off a Motorcycle Expedition ‘Northeast Odyssey’ on October 18, 2024 from Shillong, Meghalaya in attendance of Lieutenant General Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area and Air Marshal
Inderpal Singh Walia, Senior Air Staff Officer, Eastern Air Command.
The expedition is being undertaken in association with TVS Motor Company in the Northeastern States of Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh with the aim of enhancing awareness about the Navy in these vibrant states and to engage with the youth and civil society. The Navy has previously made similar successful efforts in the Northeast in 2022 and in Leh/ Ladakh in 2023.
The main objectives of the current initiative in the three North Eastern States include showcasing Indian Navy and conducting Awareness Drives at Schools/ Colleges about the career opportunities in Indian Navy, including the Agnipath Scheme. This drive upholds Nari Shakti, by including Women Officers and spouses, and also aims at interaction with Naval Veterans and Veer Naris in the region. The 15-day expedition would cover a distance of 2500 kms, passing through various cities in the states of Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
In his address at the flag off ceremony, Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, stated that the Navy has always been promoting adventure activities as these not only serve to inspire personnel to aim higher and achieve better, but also supports team building and strengthens camaraderie, which are crucial for efficient performance at sea. He congratulated the Riders for undertaking an expedition aimed at enhancing maritime consciousness and awareness about the Navy in an important part of the country that is distant from the seas but close to everyone’s hearts.
He wished all participants a safe and memorable ride and also thanked TVS Motors for partnering with the Navy for an important cause.
Mr Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, conveyed that TVS was thrilled and deeply honoured to once again join hands with the Indian Navy for this remarkable initiative. He emphasised that the partnership symbolizes more than just a collaboration; and reflects their unwavering commitment to supporting the armed forces and empowering the youth of India by showcasing the strength, unity, and dedication of the Navy. He reiterated that they would continue to aspire to inspire future generations to serve the nation with the same courage and resolve and extended heartfelt wishes to the participants for a successful and fulfilling expedition.
