Prayagraj, Nov 01 (HS): 60 cadets of 1 UP Naval Unit NCC, Prayagraj participated in

the River Sailing Expedition-2026 organized by Prayagraj Group. The expedition,

supported by one officer and 26 staff members, was flagged off from Saraswati

Ghat, Prayagraj by the Additional Director General, UP NCC. The objective of

this adventurous expedition conducted through the river Ganga was to develop

leadership qualities, discipline, self-confidence, team spirit and interest in

adventure activities among the cadets. During its journey, the expedition team

moved through various ghats and villages along the Ganga river. Halting at

various government schools enroute, the cadets interacted with local students

and villagers and spread the message of adventure activities, social

participation and environmental protection through their expedition.

A challenging

situation arose during the expedition when the team reached Vishvandarpur. Due

to the impact of Cyclone 'Arnab', the weather became extremely bad and sailing

became very difficult due to strong current and adverse water conditions in the

Ganga river. The next scheduled halt of the expedition was at Katnai Ghat, but

due to the severity of the weather and challenging conditions of the river, it

became extremely difficult to move the boats forward.

Despite these adverse

conditions, the expedition team tried to continue its journey with great effort

and patience. Struggling with difficult conditions, the team managed to move

ahead from Vishvandarpur and reach Nevariya Ghat, but due to continuous impact

of the storm and adverse conditions of the river, it was not possible to reach

Katnai Ghat.

Giving top

priority to the safety of the cadets and all members associated with the

expedition, a decision was taken as per the circumstances. Thus, making

necessary changes in the designated route, the expedition was concluded at

Gangpur, Chunar.

The closing

ceremony of River Sailing Expedition-2026 was organized in a dignified

atmosphere at Vallabhbhai Patel Inter College, Gangpur, Chunar. On this

occasion, Group Commander of Prayagraj Group, Brigadier Saurabh Vats was

present as the Chief Guest. The Principal, teachers and other staff members of

the school, students of the school and police personnel of the local police

administration also participated in the ceremony. The presence of all added to

the dignity and enthusiasm of the ceremony.

The conclusion

of River Sailing Expedition-2026 at Vallabhbhai Patel Inter College, Gangpur,

established in the name of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, made this occasion even

more glorious and memorable. On this occasion, all NCC cadets, officers and

staff members collectively participated in the National Unity Day Pledge

Ceremony and resolved to keep the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the

nation intact. Also, taking inspiration from the visionary leadership of Iron

Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, his incomparable contribution in the unification

of the nation and his ideals, the message of imbibing the spirit of 'Ek Bharat

Shreshtha Bharat' was given. All participants took inspiration to adopt the

values of mutual harmony, brotherhood, national unity and integrity in their lives.

Thus, this adventurous expedition which started with the flow of Ganga,

concluded with a pledge of national unity, collectiveness and dedication to the

nation.

The Chief Guest

appreciated the efforts of all 60 cadets, officer and staff members who participated

in the expedition. He said that such adventure expeditions play an important

role in developing leadership ability, discipline, self-confidence, team spirit

and decision-making ability in adverse situations among the youth.

He praised the

courage, patience, dedication and collective efforts displayed by the cadets

during the expedition and emphasized that in any adventure expedition, correct

assessment of conditions and giving priority to safety is very essential.

An Adventurous

Experience and Unforgettable Learning: River Sailing Expedition-2026 remained

an unforgettable and inspiring experience for the cadets of 1 UP Naval Unit

NCC, Prayagraj. Apart from providing practical experience of sailing to the

participants, this expedition also gave important lessons in leadership,

discipline, teamwork, collective responsibility and dealing with natural

challenges.

Despite not

being able to complete the designated sailing route due to adverse weather

conditions, the enthusiasm and commitment of the expedition team remained

intact. This expedition concluded for the cadets with the learning that true

courage lies not only in reaching the goal, but also in taking decisions with

patience, wisdom and safety in challenging circumstances, informed Wg Cdr

Debartho Dhar, PRO & Spokesperson,

Ministry of

Defence, Prayagraj.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi