By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 15 Oct: The Indian Air Force – Uttarakhand War Memorial Joint Car Rally, which commenced from Thoise (Diachen) and passed through Leh, Srinagar, and Jammu, arrived here on 14 October. The rally participants were greeted with enthusiasm by students and scientists at UCoST Science City, Jhajhra. The welcome event was led by renowned scientist and Director General, Dr Durgesh Pant. In a heartwarming gesture, students from Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Uttarakhand presented flower bouquets to the rally participants, and the participants were felicitated at Science City.
Today, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony was organised under the aegis of Uttarakhand Sub Area at the Shaurya Sthal, Cheed Bhag, to honour the sacrifices of India’s fallen heroes. Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd), along with the rally participants, laid a wreath at the ‘Shaurya Sthal’ war memorial in remembrance of the brave-hearts who gave their lives in service of the nation. In recognition of his support and presence, the rally team presented a memento to the Governor.
The Governor congratulated the rally participants for their commendable efforts to inspire the youth and spread awareness about the achievements of the Indian Armed Forces. He extended his best wishes for the successful completion of the 7000 KM rally from Thoise in J&K to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, which aims to inspire the younger generation to consider a career in the armed forces. The Governor further flagged off the rally from Shaurya Sthal, Dehradun, in the presence of senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, notable civil dignitaries and political leaders, including former RS MP Tarun Vijay.
The rally team also visited the prestigious Indian Military Academy, where they had the opportunity to interact with officers. Additionally, the team visited Doon University, engaging with students and sharing inspiring stories about the Indian Armed Forces.
The rally, led by Wing Commander Vijay Prakash Bhatt, includes a distinguished group of participants such as Group Captain Vinay Agnihotri, Everest summiteer Lt Col Ashwini Pawar, Mountaineer Major Swati, and thirty other warriors. The rally will proceed to its next destination, Agra, on 16 October.
The car rally’s primary mission is to spread awareness of the valiant contributions of the Indian Defence Forces and to inspire the youth across the country to join the armed forces, making them aware of the numerous opportunities available in this noble profession.